Blog: We All Have the Responsibility of Respecting and Protecting the Land That Has Sustained Us

By Dana Orozco, Arizona Field Coordinator for HECHO. 

Arizona, a state rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, is home to a natural treasure known as the Great Bend of the Gila. As a lifelong Arizona resident with ancestral connections to the Sonoran Desert, I believe that we all have the responsibility of respecting and protecting the land that has sustained us.  

The Great Bend of the Gila represents more than just a stunning natural wonder—it is a testament to the resilience and wisdom passed down through generations. Without the knowledge that Indigenous communities have shared through their connection to the Gila River, survival in the Sonoran Desert would be nearly impossible.  

As the population in Arizona grows, we must ensure that we continue to preserve the landscapes critical to this state's ecological and cultural beauty.   

If we have a connection to the land, we are much more likely to protect it. Throughout my life in Arizona, I drove through the desert landscape known as the Great Bend of the Gila without knowing its importance. After visiting several times in the past year, I have grown a deep connection to the area.  

This sacred stretch of the Gila River, flowing through magnificent canyons and vibrant landscapes, holds immense significance for the Indigenous communities who have called this land home for centuries. There are 13 sovereign Tribes that maintain deep connections to this land, and the area holds great archeological significance. Its natural features serve as a bridge between the past, present, and future, allowing us to connect with Arizona’s history. It is our duty to ensure that future generations can connect with and learn from the land as well.    

The Great Bend of the Gila is a haven of biodiversity, supporting a diverse range of plant and animal species, including several threatened and endangered species. The riparian habitats along the riverbanks provide crucial ecosystems for countless creatures, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Protecting the Great Bend of the Gila is essential for the movement and migration of animal and plant species whose survival depends on connected habitats.   

This precious Sonoran Desert landscape faces many challenges that threaten its existence. Growing urbanization, unsustainable agricultural practices, and the potential for resource extraction pose significant risks to this fragile ecosystem. As climate change intensifies, the Sonoran Desert and its water sources are further strained, endangering the delicate balance that sustains life within the Great Bend. Regenerative agriculture and water conservation efforts are two ways we can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on the Great Bend. 

To honor the land, we must be in connection with it. There are several ways to learn more about the Great Bend of the Gila, but my favorite way has been to visit the area and learn directly from the beauty of the landscape. There are online resources, such as the Respect Great Bend website, that provide more information on the significance of this area. We can also help protect this area by urging our policymakers and elected representatives to support legislation and policies that prioritize the permanent protection of the Great Bend and the Sonoran Desert.