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Aerial image of Roosevelt Lake at Roosevelt Dam

Phoenix City Council Renews Partnership with National Forest Foundation for Forest Restoration and Watershed Enhancement

June 20, 2024 7:10 AM

​​The Phoenix City Council has voted to approve the Authorization to Enter into an Agreement with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) to conduct forest restoration and watershed enhancement projects (Ordinance S-50902). This decision marks a significant step in the city’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the quality and sustainability of its water supply from the Salt and Verde rivers.

The agreement, valued at $2,000,000 over ten years, will enable the City of Phoenix to continue its partnership with the NFF, which began in 2015. The projects funded by this partnership focus on reducing wildfire risks, enhancing soil stability, improving hydrology, and restoring riparian habitats. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the health of the watersheds that provide more than half of the city’s raw water supply.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her support for the initiative, stating, "The health of our forests directly impacts the quality of our water. This partnership with the National Forest Foundation is vital for protecting our water supply and ensuring a sustainable future for Phoenix. We are proud to continue this collaboration and invest in the long-term health of our watersheds."

Troy Hayes, Director of the Phoenix Water Services Department, highlighted the importance of proactive measures. "Forest fires pose a significant threat to our water quality. By investing in forest restoration and watershed enhancement projects, we are taking a proactive approach to safeguard our water resources. This partnership with the NFF is an essential component of our strategy to ensure clean and reliable water for our community."

Cynthia Campbell, Phoenix's Water Resources Management Advisor, added, "Healthy forests are the foundation of a healthy watershed. Through this agreement, we can mitigate the impacts of wildfires and protect the Salt and Verde rivers, which are critical to our water supply. This continued partnership with the NFF will help us build resilience against future water resource challenges."

The projects under this agreement will include sediment reduction, soil stability improvement, fire and flood risk reduction, and riparian restoration. Notable ongoing and upcoming projects include the restoration of the Lower Salt River, erosion control along the Highline Trail, and fire risk reduction in Pine Canyon.

Since 2015, the partnership between Phoenix and the NFF has resulted in numerous successful projects, earning accolades such as the Crescordia and President’s Award for Sustainability Champion from Arizona Forward. The new agreement will allow for further collaborative efforts to enhance the sustainability and resiliency of the Salt-Verde watershed.

A bout City of Phoenix Water Services Department

The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit phoenix.gov/water.

Media Contact:

Michael Gertzman 

Sr. Public Information Officer

Water Services

602-534-1209

michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov

Jimena Garrison

Public Information Officer

Water Services

480-390-1933

jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov


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