COTTONWOOD WASH

A foundational principle at The Wildlands Conservancy is that nature should be freely accessible to all - if you have to pay to experience the outdoors, you've been unjustly dispossessed of your birthright. This ethos guides our operations, ensuring all Wildlands nature preserves remain open to the public without charging entry fees. We curate passive recreational opportunities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and tent camping based on the unique characteristics of each landscape. Our goal is to foster balanced visitation that provides public access while prioritizing conservation and restoration.

At Cottonwood Wash, this "curated access" approach will be critical for safeguarding the area's invaluable cultural resources and restoring biodiversity. Carefully managed visitation will help protect the ancient archaeological wonders found here while allowing respectful public appreciation.

For Wildlands, simply saving treasured places like Cottonwood Wash is just one piece of our mission. Ensuring future generations develop a deep love and understanding of nature is equally vital. In California, we have become a leader in providing free, equitable outdoor education programs that connect underserved youth with the wonders of wilderness.

As we establish responsible access and education initiatives at Cottonwood Wash, Wildlands will partner closely with the Bears Ears Partnership - a crucial advocate for the designation and ongoing protection of Bears Ears National Monument. The Partnership's Bears Ears Education Center and innovative programs like "Visit With Respect" make them an ideal collaborator for developing place-based curriculum and mindful access policies tailored to this gateway region.