The Boards of Directors of Keep Sedona Beautiful (KSB) and the Verde Valley Land Preservation Institute (VVLP) have voted to merge our two organizations, including our boards, programs, and assets. “We share a passion for preserving our natural open spaces, and know that our combined organization will more effectively function as a steward of the land,” according to Craig Swanson, KSB President.

“We are excited to join forces with KSB which will further advance our central mission of ensuring preserved open space in the Verde Valley.” said Steve Estes, President of VVLP.

VVLP programs have included restoring riparian habitat on Verde Valley rivers and streams, assisting the Yavapai County Planning Commission special committee to create an Open Space Subdivision ordinance, and contributing to regional land use planning such as Yavapai County’s General Plan and Verde Valley Regional Plan, as well as the Prescott and Coconino National Forest Land Management Plan revisions. VVLP also conceived, promoted and facilitated a public-private partnership to create the Cliff Rose Trail. This trail includes a safe and welcoming trail head facility, allowing hikers and equestrian users’ access to popular open space trails on county land and diverting from unauthorized access via state trust land.

Keep Sedona Beautiful will retain our name, while VVLP activities will be continued within KSB programs and initiatives. Two board members from VVLP will join the KSB Board of Trustees: Bob Rothrock and Steve Estes. The combined energy of our two organizations will make for a more effective and wider-reaching voice for safeguarding the area’s open spaces and natural environment.