I have been a resident of Utah County for over half a century and during this time have seen commercial interests overrun some of my cherished places in the name of “progress”.

Our efforts to Protect and Preserve American Fork Canyon began in the Spring of 2015. Good people have joined this project which has taken on a life of its own. The law firm of Kirton and McConkie is overseeing the non-profit filings. We have top notch people who love the canyon who add to our efforts weekly. New members join the land lease alliance weekly as well. These are exciting and sustainable activities. I am the acting Executive Director of American Fork Canyon Alliance (AFCA).

As a former river guide with experience in the Grand Canyon, Cataract Canyon, Westwater Canyon and Desolation Canyons I do have a passion for keeping the “wild” in wilderness. Truly American Fork Canyon is one of the most unique places in the Wasatch Mountains, which I like to now refer to as the “Crown Jewel of the Wasatch”.

As father to 4 children, I’ve tried to instill in my children a love and respect for our beautiful world and an understanding of our stewardship to not love her to death. Sometimes its best to leave wild places to be attended to by Mother Nature. Drive off the asphalt, put on some hiking boots and learn what is really at stake for the future generations. To lose AF Canyon to commercial interests would be a travesty. My concern? Will my children someday ask me what it was like to be in a ‘wild place’? Will there be any un-commercialized places to take my children or grandchildren?” For those who have helped us in this journey thank you. There are great opportunities ahead to partner with the Forest Service to actively engage and protect this wonderful canyon. Please join with our group in so doing.

– Mark

By profession Mark is a filmmaker and works for a adventure company which is an interesting blend of commercial interests and protecting resources. Mark enjoys hiking, camping, 4×4, ham radio, backcountry skiing, rafting, downhill skiing, horseback riding, fly-fishing, raising his daughters and sleeping under the night sky. ”
He spends many hours each day on social media, sharing the vision and passion for protecting American Fork Canyon.