About AWWTA
The Arizona Watchable Wildlife Tourism Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) organized in August 2002 to promote Arizona’s enormous wildlife watching opportunities for residents and visitors. Nature tourism is proven to reap statewide economic benefits, personal economic benefits for resident, as well as help conserve those special places that make Arizona unique. Mission AWWTA promotes and advocates for Arizona's birding and watchable wildlife tourism industry through marketing and product development, education, conservation and adherence to ethical and sustainable practices. Vision AWWTA to become the best in at educating Arizona visitors and providers of nature tourism about the exciting recreational, social and economic benefits of wildlife conservation, preservation and hospitality. Members AWWTA's members embody the nature tourism spectrum: citizens, local businesses, bed and breakfasts, chambers of commerce, local, state and federal agencies, lodging and food service providers, students and teachers, and nature enthusiasts. View our member directory or join AWWTA » Programs Go Wild Program - in 2012 AWWTA announced it's program Go Wild program. This program selects one of Arizona's premier communities that would benefit from partnering with AWWTA to showcase how a community can enjoy its natural resources while building a unique long-term nature-based tourism identity. AWWTA and the committed team of local representatives work closely over a six-month period of time to collect resources, develop ideas for nature tourism, begin to implement concrete plans for programming and marketing, and assess this type of partnership for future implementation in the area and elsewhere. The 2012 Go Wild communities is Globe - Miami. If you are interested in submitting an application for 2013, please contact Karen McClurg Assocation Coordinator. Conservation - AWWTA is doing its part to conserve resources and protect our natural environment. All materials produced by AWWTA are made from recycled paper. AWWTA is proud sponsors the Arizona Trails Association My Mile program. Memberships - AWWTA is a proud member of Arizona Bed and Breakfast Assoication (AABBI). Nature Festivals and Outreach Program - AWWTA attends Arizona based nature festival throughout the year to provide Arizona traveling public with information on exploring the WILD side of Arizona as well as how to conserve these wonderful areas. In 2013, AWWTA will be at the following birding and nature festivals; Wings Over Willcox, Feathered Friends, Globe-Miami Historic Home Tour, Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival, Verde Valley Birding Festivalr, Southwest Wings and Woodlands Wildlife Festival. Board and Advisory Council President: Joe Yarchin, Arizona Game and Fish Department Vice President: Phyllis Ralley, Bureau of Land Management Secretary: Rosalie Lamentola-Ayala, Owner of Noftsger Hill Inn Bed and Breakfast Treasurer: open position Member at Large: Glenn Schlottman, Arizona Office of Tourism Advisors Arizona State Parks: Ellen Bilbery Birding Tour Operator: Kathe Anderson Photography All photos displayed on the site were provided by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Sue Sitko, Bruce Taubert, and Tom Whetten, with permission for their use; no photos or other images may be copied or duplicated in any way without permission from AWWTA.
