The Yuma East Wetlands: Restoring severely degraded riparian habitat on the lower Colorado River

The Yuma East Wetlands is located within the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area. This partnership which includes the Quechan Indian Nation, City of Yuma, multiple federal agencies and local farmers is restoring over 1400 acres of critical wildlife habitat on the Colorado River.  Before the vision was born the land was comprised of a wasteland of illegal activities, widespread dumping and exotic plants species including Tamarisk spp. (Salt Cedar) which has infested more than 90% of the Colorado River Watershed. During the initial two years of the project the project stakeholders reached consensus on the overall restoration plan, required all necessary permits and amassed considerable start up funds for implementation. Currently over 300 acres of restoration is underway including restoring historic river channels and wetland, riparian and upland revegetation.  The project is restoring habitat for over 330 species of wildlife including the endangered Yuma Clapper Rail and Southwest Willow Flycatcher. Various methods of restoration are being used including a variety or exotic plant removal, irrigation, seeding, planting and maintenance techniques.  Through intensive restoration site monitoring we will optimize existing techniques and provide new methods for restoration on the Lower Colorado River.