Cochise Conservation Recharge Network holds promise for Sierra Vista region
The economic and environmental health of the Sierra Vista region have something critical in common: both depend on limited groundwater supplies. The Upper San Pedro River is among the last free-flowing rivers in the southwestern United States, supports abundant wildlife including 250 bird species, and is dependent on groundwater. At the same time, Fort Huachuca, municipalities, mining, and ranching all rely on access to groundwater. In recent years, we have seen stretches of the river run dry and legal battles over water put the existing economy and future growth at risk. Fortunately, we’ve also seen encouraging progress towards improving the health of the Upper San Pedro River through a first-of-its-kind strategy in Arizona to construct several groundwater recharge projects to support the environment and economy. Read the full article in the Sierra Vista Herald.