High Desert Keepers, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safe and sustainable riding areas, has been granted $13,230 by Yamaha as part of its Outdoor Access Initiative. The funds will bolster the ongoing “Stories & Stewardship at Giant Rock” project, aimed at maintaining a clean and accessible environment for outdoor enthusiasts in Landers, CA.
Since 2019, High Desert Keepers has been collaborating with PositionalProjects.org and Blightsites.org on the #storiesandstewardship initiative. This year marks the 8th anniversary of the annual clean-up and history walk, coinciding with National Public Lands Day. The event targets the removal of litter, hazardous debris, and graffiti from the historically significant site and riding area, made possible through the collective efforts of community partners.
Karyl Newman, HDK board member and lead organizer of #storiesandstewardship, expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing its significance in facilitating the largest Giant Rock clean-up yet, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of National Public Lands Day. (See video below)
The grant will be instrumental in several key areas. High Desert Keepers plans to upgrade their equipment, collaborate with PositionalProjects.org to create a map of geo-located augmented reality interpretative exhibits and develop educational signage. Additionally, funds will be allocated towards the acquisition of tools for waste abatement and collection, further fortifying High Desert Keepers’ pivotal role in sustaining the Great Stone and its surrounding environment.
Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s Motorsports marketing manager, lauded the collaboration, highlighting the importance of preserving the iconic OHV riding area that is Giant Rock. He emphasized Yamaha’s commitment to supporting organizations like High Desert Keepers and their dedication to National Public Lands Day.
High Desert Keepers, established in 2017 by Scott Brown, is a registered 501(c)3 organization. Through ongoing support from local municipalities, community leaders, businesses, and donors, the organization tirelessly combats illegal dumping, ensuring the high desert remains a pristine and trash-free environment.
