Agua Fria Open Space Alliance Inc.

The Agua Fria Open Space Alliance Inc. (AFOSA) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to nature conservation and the preservation of natural ecological systems. Founded and incorporated in 2007, AFOSA received its tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in 2008 with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 26-0378948.

Mission

AFOSA's mission is threefold:

1. Research: To study and understand environmental issues affecting both humans and wildlife, particularly in the context of wild plants and animals occupying undeveloped open space.
2. Communication: To disseminate findings to enhance public awareness.
3. Conservation: To advocate for the preservation of natural ecosystems, emphasizing the critical role wild species play in maintaining environmental balance. This aligns with the views of Aldo Leopold, who advocated for equal treatment of wild creatures, highlighting their importance in protecting soil, air, and water.

Activities and Projects

AFOSA engages in various projects aimed at conservation and education:

• Roadside Biology Atlas
• Right-of-Way Grazing Exclosures
• Desert Fire History & Post-fire Recovery
• Fire Refugia
• Invasive Weeds of the Sonoran Desert
• Effects of Fire on Wildlife in North American Deserts
• Ecological Succession Behind Sand Dunes in the Great Basin Desert

Corporate Structure

AFOSA operates as an Arizona nonprofit corporation, governed by a Board of Directors. Notable directors include Katharine McVey, Joanne Oellers, Garry Rogers (also President), and Jeff Steele. Garry Rogers has been instrumental in developing projects that align with AFOSA’s goals, contributing articles and blog posts on environmental issues.

Recognition and Support

AFOSA has earned the Guidestar Platinum Transparency seal, indicating its commitment to financial transparency and accountability. The organization is supported by major companies and public entities, including Microsoft, Adobe, Google, and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.