The Background
The Background
The Background
A group of individuals who have lived, worked and/or enjoy the San Rafael Valley decided to start the Friends of San Rafael Valley (FoSRV) in 2023.
In addition to attaining 501C3 non-profit status in 2024, the FoSRV signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Arizona State Parks and Trails (ASPT) that will serve as an umbrella for fostering collaborative efforts to preserve and enhance the San Rafael State Natural Area, known to locals as The San Rafael State Park.
Our Mission
The Background
The Background
The mission of the FoSRV is the preservation and conservation of the San Rafael Valley with its primary focus on the State of Arizona San Rafael State Natural Area (SRSNA).
The SRSNA encompasses a 25-acre National Historic District within 3557 acres of the San Rafael Short Grass Prairie Preserve. The historic ranch structures within the SRSNA offer a glimpse into the valley’s past. The preservation of these buildings, along with promoting the conservation of the land, will help to maintain the historical and cultural heritage of the San Rafael Valley.
Our Plan
The Background
Our Plan
Since the MOU was signed, the FoSRV have been working to ensure the ranch house is safe and secure for public viewing. Upon approval by the State Parks team, we will begin offering tours of the ranch house.
As Arizona State Parks lacks funding to preserve the San Rafael National Historic District, we plan to initiate a capital campaign to raise funds that will enable us to make the necessary repairs to the ranch house, barn, and blacksmith shop, and to develop a collaborative group to support conservation ranching and provide research and education for members and the public relating to the environment, culture, and history of the Valley and its watershed.