PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) and its partners have been awarded $24.5 million to support large-scale restoration efforts in the Colorado River Basin, AZGFD announced Thursday.
The project spans approximately 35,000 acres and will focus on restoring native plant communities by utilizing climate-smart practices, including removing invasive woody species.
“The funding secured through this partnership will support the treatment of grasslands and overstocked woodlands to restore natural conditions within critical wildlife movement corridors and winter habitat for Arizona’s wildlife,” said Dan Sturla, AZGFD’s Landowner Relations and Habitat Enhancement Program Manager.
Collaborative Approach to Restoration
The restoration initiative is a collaborative effort involving AZGFD, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever (PFQF), the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM), and the Arizona Association of Conservation Districts (AACD). These organizations aim to ensure diverse approaches to habitat restoration and conservation practices.
The project is funded through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).
Restoration and Climate Adaptation Goals
“This RCPP project directly aligns with our vision of an Arizona in which the people are protected from the threat of fire and whose diverse landscapes are healthy,” said John Richardson, DFFM Assistant State Forester.
Key benefits of the restoration efforts include:
- Wildfire Prevention: Reducing wildfire risk through improved forest and watershed health.
- Soil Protection: Preserving soil integrity across the region.
- Water Quality Improvement: Enhancing water resources critical to Arizona’s ecosystems.
A Broader Vision for Arizona’s Future
“It is essential that we look at Arizona’s working lands at a landscape level,” said Deborrah Smith, AACD Executive Director. “Land managers across the state face the same daily concerns around soil health and water conservation.”
The restoration project comes as federal officials approach a deadline to determine future water usage for the Colorado River, a critical waterway for Arizona and neighboring states.
Looking Ahead
By addressing invasive species and implementing sustainable practices, the project aims to strengthen Arizona’s landscapes, protect wildlife habitats, and improve climate resilience. This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring the long-term health of the Colorado River Basin and the communities that depend on it.
