Project Description
Arizona Western College is seeking funds to educate Yuma residents on the importance of wetlands restoration for bird conservation. Wetlands in the Yuma area are critical habitat for the endangered Yuma Clapper Rail, Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, and Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Riparian habitats in the Sonoran and Mojave deserts support over 33% of plants and animals in the desert southwest but only comprise 5% of the land mass. Unfortunately, 90% of the riparian areas in this region have been destroyed by development or replaced by agriculture. This project will form a unique partnership between Arizona Western College, Yuma Heritage Area, and Fred Phillips Consulting LLC to grow trees on the campus of Arizona Western College for wetlands restoration; and perform wetlands outreach and education.