Historic Partnership Formed for Arizona’s First Urban Wildlife Refuge
Green Valley, AZ – On Thursday, local and federal officials convened at the Historic Canoa Ranch to sign a groundbreaking Memo of Understanding (MOU) for the Santa Cruz River National Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership. This initiative is poised to establish Arizona’s inaugural urban national wildlife refuge, uniting key stakeholders, including the City of Tucson, Pima County, Santa Cruz County, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
The partnership aims to foster community-driven environmental stewardship while ensuring the preservation of the wildlife corridor extending from the Mexican border through Pinal County. It is also expected to attract significantly needed federal funding for river restoration initiatives. Pima County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Adelita Grijalva emphasized the need for increased financial support, specifically mentioning a potential lobbying effort to secure resources without detracting from existing refuges.
While changes in presidential administrations could complicate funding prospects, USFWS Director Martha Williams expressed hope for continued support for community-led conservation efforts. She reiterated the agency’s commitment and described the partnership as a model for future collaboration in wildlife conservation.
The proposed refuge will aim not only to conserve vital natural resources along the Santa Cruz River but also to enhance public accessibility to outdoor activities. Grijalva noted the potential for collaborations with local tribes and communities to further enrich conservation efforts.
"This effort is about inviting the community to engage with preservation, offering a chance to reconnect with the environment," Grijalva stated.
Looking to the future, Amanda McAdams of the USFWS emphasized the importance of expanding stakeholder involvement, ensuring that local voices guide conservation strategies in the region. The partnership represents a significant step forward in conservation and community engagement in Arizona.
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Photo credit news.azpm.org
