Backwater Habitat Restoration Projects Completed in Yuma
The endangered razorback sucker and bonytail fish now have 80 acres of new habitat to explore, thanks to Reclamation’s Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program (MSCP). The six large ponds, built by Reclamation’s Yuma Area Office at the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, are the first completed backwater habitat restoration projects of the MSCP.
This program will address the conservation needs of 26 species, six of which are endangered, by restoring the Lower Colorado River, while providing critical water and power supplies. More than 50 entities collaborate with Reclamation in the program through its Member Steering Committee.
“This is a prime example of a partnership program in a river basin that is itself one of the best examples of collaborative efforts in the United States,” said Reclamation Commissioner Robert Johnson at the Imperial Ponds Project dedication on Nov. 5.
The program, slated to continue through April 2055, provides Endangered Species Act coverage for the proposed Lower Colorado River shortage guidelines. Additional projects scheduled for completion include a twelve acre marsh for marsh birds and waterfowl and the planting of 34 acres of native cottonwood-willow trees.
To learn more about the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program visit: http://www.lcrmscp.gov/.
Last updated: 12/12/07