Superstition Area Land Trust - SALT

The Superstition Area Land Trust (SALT) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a mission to conserve the natural Sonoran Desert open space surrounding the Superstition Wilderness Area. SALT’s primary focus has always been on conserving sections of Arizona State Trust Land adjacent to or near the southern border of the Superstition Wilderness Area, specifically the Superstition Foothills, before they become overrun by development and rooftops up to the wilderness boundary. Arizona State Trust Land can be purchased for conservation, but only at auction and at or above the appraised value.

SALT has a significant need for additional funding to support the following goals:

1. Growing the Land Acquisition Fund:SALT aims to significantly expand its current Land Acquisition Fund of $235,000. With sufficient funding, SALT will be able to contribute to and influence the future of the Superstition Foothills. The goal is to conserve the targeted 45 square miles of State Trust Land in this area, which could become part of a managed park designed for responsible recreation, ensuring these lands are preserved for future generations.

2. SALT Outpost Development:Funding is needed to help convert the SALT Outpost, an open-air shelter, into a mid-sized, temperature-controlled meeting space. The space will feature wrap-around transparent walls to immerse visitors in the stunning national park scenery. This facility will encourage community engagement, as the wider public will be invited to responsibly share the space with SALT.

3. Toney’s Cabin Restoration:Funds are also required to restore "Toney’s Cabin," a historic 1913-era log cabin located on SALT’s Toney Ranch. The 78-acre Toney Ranch is situated at the southeastern corner of the Superstition Wilderness Area and is accessible only by foot, horseback, or helicopter (no landing pad), with the shortest route being an 8-mile round trip. SALT is awaiting final restoration plans from HistoriCorps.org, which will collaborate on the project. The cabin’s logs are infested with termites and need to be replaced, and the walls and roof must be stabilized and straightened. HistoriCorps is preparing two restoration options, both of which are costly.