About Us

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Matt is a fourth generation rancher who moved to Aravaipa in 2014 from Douglas, AZ. He has been recognized for his work in conservation in the past. He and his family are on the Squaw Creek Ranch.

Kathy is a native of Arizona and grew up on horseback. She is married to Bill Lackner and they have a blended family that includes the Weathersby family who have been in Aravaipa since 1902.  Kathy has been one of the prominent organizers of the AWCA. 

John Stoddard Is a native to Aravaipa and holds a serious determination to protect the resources he grew up in.

 He brings both leadership and innovative thinking to the board of directors. He and his wife Julie are both business owners and bring the knowledge of doing what it takes to get things done.

Mark is the manager of the Nature Conservancy's Aravaipa Preserve. The preserve both manages cattle and grows an irrigated field of native grasses for projects in the watershed. 

Bill (Billy) Lackner part owner and manager of the historical Four Mile Ranch and someone who has always been considered, "born to the land". Billy has worked both cattle and equipment in all parts of Aravaipa and is noted for knowing what the land responds to and how the watershed works.

Mike and his family are 5th (and 6th) generation ranchers. They are doing their best to add their vision to the old ways and create a positive image for ranchers so that open space ranching can thrive in the area.

Our phenomenal administration team, Jonathan, Hannah and Levi Claridge are the new power behind the AWCA.  The Claridge family has a long history in Aravaipa canyon and the AWCA is proud to have this younger generation stepping up to be a part of improving and protection the watershed for many more generations to come.