There are few places that better demonstrate the connection between innovative water management and river health than does Phoenix’s Tres Rios Wetlands. Thanks to the release of treated effluent into the Salt River, it boasts over 700 acres of restored riparian and wetland habitat, over 150 species of birds, and Audubon Important Bird Area designation for species including the endangered Yuma Ridgway’s Rail. In addition, it provides the community an opportunity to reconnect with their local river and become inspired to take action for rivers across the Colorado River Basin. The City of Phoenix’s Tres Rios Wetlands project is exactly what WRAN is all about, which is why we are thrilled to highlight it during our next WRAN lunchtime webinar.
Register now to join us on Wednesday, May 3rd from noon-1pm for an inside look at this water management and conservation success. (Presented by Cynthia Campbell - Water Resources Manager and Policy Advisor, City of Phoenix)
(Don't forget to check out the other sessions in this series on our WRAN Events page!)
_____________________________________________________________
Action Opportunities
This month, Arizona WRAN members took over 1,500 water policy-related actions by speaking out against bad legislation, advocating for adequate funding for the Arizona Department of Water Resources, and thanking our leaders for their part in promoting forward-thinking and inclusive water management. Help amplify their voices by taking action below.
- Speak out against irresponsible changes to Arizona’s Groundwater Management Act
- Show your support for an adequately funded Arizona Department of Water Resources
- Thank Governor Ducey for prioritizing equity and collaboration in Arizona's water management
- Tell your Representatives to keep partisan politics out of water management
- Sign a petition to let your legislators know about the importance of western rivers
_____________________________________________________________
Partner Highlights
Protecting flow and riparian habitat across the Colorado River Basin is a monumental challenge, but fortunately, WRAN is just one of many partners taking it on.
-
Arizona Municipal Water Users Association
The Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA) has worked for nearly half a century to protect local leaders’ ability to provide assured, safe and sustainable water supplies to their communities. Most recently, AMWUA has been a powerful partner in advocating for adequate funding of key federal water conservation efforts like the EPA’s WaterSense program.
- Trout Unlimited Regional and Statewide Conferences (April 27 – 29. Scottsdale/Phoenix)
Trout Unlimited is one of several sportsmen groups that helps us reach far beyond the usual Audubon audience. Both their regional and statewide conferences are coming up this week and attendees of both will have a chance to join WRAN and take action for western rivers.
- Verde River State of the Watershed Conference (May 10-11. Clarkdale)
Hosted by the Verde Watershed Restoration Coalition, this event will explore the current state of the Verde River through field trips, conference sessions, and keynote speakers. Join community members, local leadership, scientists, restoration practitioners, business owners, and more at this inaugural event. Register here!
-
Film Screening and Discussion - Groundwater: to enact a law for the common good (May 17, 7pm. Prescott)
This 26-minute documentary recounts the contentious battle that led to the passage of Arizona’s celebrated Groundwater Management Act. Following the film, water authority Kathleen Ferris will lead a panel of water experts with acclaimed filmmaker Michael Schiffer, to engage the audience in a solutions-oriented conversation, focusing on Quad-City area water topics. Purchase tickets here and learn more on Facebook.
Take Action | Events and Webinars | Follow us on Facebook | Donate | Storymaps | Newsletter Archive
By Steven Prager
Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary
Visit the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary in Santa Fe, New Mexico.