Environmental Rehabilitation

Environmental Rehabilitation  |  Riverfront Development Project  |  Historic Preservation  |  Milestones

"The Colorado River is the Lifeblood of the Southwest"

Harnessing this resource through dams and canals has promoted growth, reduced flooding, generated electric power, and fostered tremendous agricultural production, all to the entire nation's benefit. The result, however, has also diminished the river's ecosystems. To address environmental issues, including the Endangered Species Act, regional planning efforts have been undertaken. To date, the complication of water rights, property rights, agricultural interests, the legitimate concerns of Native American tribes, and the competing demands on the Bureau of Reclamation -- not only in Yuma, but throughout the region -- have stymied efforts to make progress.

Wetlands Restoration

BEFORE Currently, the Colorado River in the East Wetlands is clogged with Salt Cedars, exotic plant growth and silt build-up.		DURING Natural channel stabilization and dredging of backwaters will allow better water flow and clear the way for favorable wildlife habitat.

AFTER A similar project near Parker, AZ. Here the revitalized Colorado river features native plant life, restored habitat and natural water tributaries. In the East Wetlands, one hundred acres of lakes will replace current overgrowth

The East Wetlands as a Model for the Nation

For decades, the Yuma community has sought to improve a five-mile stretch of the Colorado River. Bounded by levees for flood control, choked by non-native vegetation, a haven for illegal activity and the homeless, and starved of an adequate water supply, this 1400 acre area became a "forgotten land": a parched patch of river bottom where once cottonwoods and willows grew, where the Quechan Indian tribal members once hunted and fished, and where hundreds of birds nested.

BEFORE Salt cedar, cane and other non-native vegetation degrade habitat, increase fire hazards and become a haven for undesirable activity.		DURING The overgrowth is cleared and native trees, such as cottonwoods and willows, are planted and irrigated.

AFTER Within five years, the newly planted trees are providing shade and beautiful surroundings where nature can be enjoyed. Hiking and bird watching are favorite recreations.