STEERING COMMITTEE
The following pages describe the overall vision, mission, and guiding principles of the Verde River Corridor Project Steering Committee and outline the final recommendations and major findings of the five subcommittees.
The Steering Committee directed the overall project, providing the vision and broad-based perspectives needed to accomplish the goals of the VRCP. From November 1989 through May 1991, the Steering Committee met nearly once a month, discussing issues and strategies. The 26 members received and reviewed regular reports and a considerable amount of draft materials, including the strategies and recommendations developed by the subcommittees.
The Steering Committee was responsible for making the final decisions to approve the recommendations and plan of action. The guiding principles were developed near the end of the project after dozens of issues had been discussed, strategies explored, presentors listened to and questioned, and materials and data reviewed and evaluated. These principles represent the diversity of issues and opinions that were the heart of the Verde River Corridor Project. They should serve as guidelines during implementation of the recommendations and the plan of action.
Overall Vision of the Verde River Corridor Project
The Verde River Corridor is an invaluable resource to the people of the Verde Valley and to the State of Arizona. It is an integral part of life in the Verde Valley affecting each resident, landowner, business, and tourist in some way. Planning for the wise use, protection, and enhancement of the Verde River and its associated natural, cultural, scenic, agricultural, economic, and recreational resources should be a priority for everyone.
Mission
Identify and recognize all uses of the Verde River Corridor,
encourage protection of the Verde River and its natural and cultural
resources, and
promote coordinated decision-making
for the continued enjoyment and use of the Verde River by future
generations.
Guiding Principles of the Verde River Corridor Project
Private Property
As Americans, we hold dear the right to own property. Many laws and policies exist which are designed to protect the private property owner. There are also regulations and ordinances designed for the safety, health, and welfare of others and for the conservation of the land and its resources. Personal stewardship is one of the best forms of land protection.
Rights of private property ownership to the land shall be respected in all river-related management decisions.
Economic Development
Commercial utilization of the water and other resources of the Verde River Corridor is an integral part of life in the Verde Valley. The natural resources associated with a river are valuable assets to the economic health and quality of life of adjacent communities and their residents. Wise use and planning can ensure that current and future populations enjoy the many benefits of these resources.
Economic development of the river corridor shall be balanced with conservation and maintenance of the natural, cultural, and scenic values of the Verde River Corridor.
Water
Water is a precious commodity in an arid environment. To enjoy both year-round flows and clean, unpolluted water in a free-flowing river at one's doorstep is an absolute treasure. The management of the water resources in the Verde Valley is a complicated task requiring continuing study. As supplies and technology for storage and reuse of water develop and change, there may be a need to consider a reordering of priorities to optimize water usage allocations among the competing demands.
Maintenance of the natural instream flows adequate for identified needs and uses, and improvement of water quality of the Verde River and its major tributaries shall be a priority. Identified needs and uses include the natural ecosystem, fish and wildlife, recreation, agriculture, and commercial and domestic use.
Resource Protection
The natural and cultural resources of the Verde River Corridor constitute an important contribution to the natural diversity and quality of life in the Verde Valley and in the nation. There are several national monuments and wilderness areas located along the Verde River and its tributaries. The Verde's riparian corridor is renowned throughout the United States as one of the last remaining extensive stands of cottonwood-willow gallery forest. Committed to the preservation of this unique ecological resource, the State of Arizona has established the Verde River Greenway to assist in this goal.
Protection, enhancement, and restoration of the natural resources along the Verde River Corridor shall be a priority.
Preservation and protection of the cultural resources of the Verde River Corridor shall be a priority.
Recreation
The free-flowing waters of the Verde have offered swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and other water-related recreational opportunities for many years. Now, this apprecition for these privileges is becoming more apparent as the population base broadens and more people are exposed to the benefits of the river and all it has to offer. Arizonans are privileged to enjoy an incredible diversity of recreation opportunities. With this privilege comes responsibilityto other recreationists, to landowners, and to the land itself.
Providing recreation opportunities and ensuring the availability of appropriate managed public access along the Verde River Corridor shall be a priority.
Informing the public of river-related recreation opportunities, access, and personal responsibilities shall be a priority.
Education
Education about the environment and our role in it can take many formsfrom formal programs, to nature walks, to books and pamphlets, to simply experiencing the wonders of nature through the eyes of a child. Environmental education should be ongoing throughout one's life. In order to participate in planning efforts and help make informed decisions regarding the Verde River and its management, the general public, businesses and government representatives need to recognize that the Verde River Corridor is a special natural and cultural resource and a tremendous amenity not found in very many communities.
Promotion of a greater awareness, understanding, appreciation, respect, and responsibility toward the Verde River and its resources, in order to instill personal and community responsibility, shall be a priority.
Planned Growth
The Verde Valley is a vital, growing region attracting many businesses and industries as well as new residents. Planned growth is essential to the economic and environmental health of the region. Making decisions for the Verde Valley is everyone's responsibility.
Encouragement of coordinated land use policies which, while accommodating growth, are compatible with natural, aesthetic, rural, recreational, and cultural values shall be a priority.
Coordinated Management
There are many agencies and organizations that control and regulate the resources of the Verde River Corridor. In many instances, these entities do not communicate regularly with each other, causing considerable confusion and duplication of efforts. The general public encounters obstacles in trying to understand the many policies and laws and in attempting to effectively participate in planning or management decisions.
Development of a strategy for the coordinated management, conservation and use of the corridor, emphasizing a shared responsibility for management between landowners, private organizations, recreationists, and appropriate levels of government shall be a priority.
Establishment of an ongoing Verde River Corridor organization to help implement the recommendations outlined in this process and to continue to function in the interest of conserving the Verde River and its resources shall be a priority.
The five subcommittees worked long and hard, meeting numerous times in between the public Steering Committee meetings. Many of the committee members toured, hiked, rode, canoed, and kayaked the river corridor to get a better understanding of the issues, concerns, and opportunities available along the Verde River Corridor. Committee members also talked with local community members and agency representatives, met with members of the Technical Advisory Committee, and wrote up their concerns and recommendations for presentation to the Steering Committee and general public.
Several committees requested information, resource data and inventories, maps, and other materials so that the strategies and recommendations could be based on current information. A few of the requested studies are just now being completed. Because of this, some of the following recommendations were written in general terms and will need to be re-evaluated after reviewing the completed studies.
The following recommendations and major findings show the complexity and depth of the issues with which these committees members dealt.
The five subcommittees, in alphabetical order, include:
ECONOMICS & COMMERCIAL USES
LAND CONSERVATION
PRIVATE PROPERTY
RECREATION
WATER
Economics and Commercial Uses
The Verde River, related wetlands, and surrounding natural areas are economically vital to the commerce and industries of communities of the Verde Valley. It is obvious that rivers, trails, and open spaces that connect natural, cultural, and recreational areas increase the aesthetic and recreational value of the surrounding communities. It may not be so obvious, however, that these resources provide significant economic contribution, too. Several studies have documented the attraction and expansion of businesses, creation of jobs, increased local tax revenues, and enhanced property values due to well-managed river corridor resources.
Water-based recreation is a major component of the Arizona tourist industry, which generates over five billion dollars of income annually and is the second largest source of income in Arizona. Recreational river boating and canoeing are popular outdoor activities that are rapidly increasing their numbers of participants. Trends suggest more family groups are participating, people are participating longer throughout their lifetimes, increased numbers of older people are participating, and increased skill and improved technology is increasing participation (Lime, 1984). The purchase of canoes, supplies, gas, and food for boating activities is considerable. For example, in 1988 Americans purchased approximately 90,000 canoes (Wilson, 1986).
Trail-related recreation includes walking for pleasure, jogging, hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding; and the number of participants is increasing phenomenally. Furthermore, those who participate in these activities can do so for a lifetime. Outdoor recreation comprises a large share of leisure, or free time; the money spent on outdoor recreation activities, likewise, accounts for a substantial portion of many people's discretionary spending. Bicycles, car carriers, special shoes, gloves, helmets, shorts, packs, and other specialized equipment are purchased at local businesses. In the Verde Valley, most outdoor recreation centers around the resources of the Verde Riverfishing, birdwatching, photography, canoeing, pleasure walking, bicycling, horseback riding, hiking, and camping. As residents and tourists alike pursue these river-related activities, they spend money on food, gasoline, equipment, and supplies; and they visit local restaurants, businesses, concessions, events, and attractions. When tourists visit the Verde Valley they are bringing valuable outside dollars into the local economy, and this economic stimulation creates jobs and income for local residents.
Recreation related specifically to rivers, fish and wildlife, and trails has tremendous impact on local economies. Over 77 percent of the U. S. population participates in wildlife- related activities; in 1985 they spent $55.7 billion dollars (USDI FWS, 1988). The popularity of fishing continues to increase; in 1988, 25.4 percent of the U. S. population were anglers, and they spent $28 billion in the pursuit of fishing (USDA FS, 1989).
Ecotourism, in which the attractions are cultural as well as natural resources, is the new tourism phenomenon of the 1990s. Natural beauty is a very important element of ecotourism. Travellers are increasingly attracted to educational-oriented experiences provided by cultural and historic sites. The Verde Valley offers a rich array of historic experiences such as Tuzigoot, Montezuma's Castle, other cliff dwellings, and artifacts that remind visitors of the Hohokam, Sinagua, and more recently, the Yavapai Apache peoples. The Verde River has been essential to the survival and social well-being of Verde Valley residents since the beginnings of prehistoric settlement, and it continues to be critical to the quality of life here today. Many of Arizona's most significant historical and archaeological sites are located along the Verde River, and many travellers are drawn to visit them.
Agriculture and ranching have always been a vital part of the economy and lifestyle of the Verde Valley. Thousands of years previous to the arrival of the first settlers, the Hohokam people irrigated fields by building canals to divert water from the Verde River, and relatives of the Sinagua used dry-farming techniques. The first Anglo settlers arrived in search of an area suitable for a farming community in 1865. They built a crude dam to divert water for crop irrigation to provide supplies to Prescott and nearby Fort Whipple. Though agriculture and ranching no longer predominate the economic basis of the Verde Valley, they maintain a key cultural niche.
The early growth of the Verde Valley is synonymous with mining of copper, silver, and gold; witness the railroads and burgeoning communities in the late 1800s. Today, mining is more likely to mean sand and gravel operations, which have increased dramatically in line with exploding population growth and have significant economic impact to the Verde communities. Sand and gravel companies, state and federal agencies, and local organizations are working very hard together to support mining operations while protecting the natural resources of the river.
It is impossible to put a dollar value on the economic contribution of the Verde River and its related resources; it brings in dollars from recreation and tourism, it increases property values, it attracts new businesses, and it provides for industry and agriculture. All together, the Verde River provides quality of life, and that is immeasurable.
Economics and Commercial Uses Subcommittee
Many of the issues that faced the Economics and Commercial Uses Subcommittee spanned across all the subcommittees; so while there may have been issues involving recreation, conservation, or water quality, this subcommittee has tried to focus on the economic aspects of each issue. Four primary issues were addressed: sand and gravel mining, agriculture, housing developments and zoning (land development), and benefits of the river corridor to the local economy.
The subcommittee wanted to maintain the economic viability of the sand and gravel industry and its contribution to the economic base and, at the same time, protect the natural resources of the Verde River. Because some conflicts and confusion surround the sand and gravel operations in the Verde River, cooperation is needed on the part of the sand and gravel industry, state and federal agencies, and local interests. As a first step, a public forum was held with experts and local citizens to discuss the issue. Part of the confusion lies in the management and the permitting processes that are required to work in or near the river, and the committee recommends investigating and clarifying the process. One of the priority plan of action recommendations is to produce a concise brochure that explains the process, related laws, affected activities, and agency contacts. ADEQ is currently preparing a manual to clarify the wetlands and riparian areas permitting process that may fulfill this recommendation.
The quality of life inspired by the Verde River is recognized by the subcommittee as the basis of much of the economic viability of the Verde communities due to tourists, recreationists, and new businesses. Since the rural agricultural lifestyle, the cultural history, and the open natural areas all contribute to the quality of life that is enjoyed in the Verde Valley, priority was given to recommendations that support tax relief for agricultural lands, open space zoning and planning to preserve scenic and recreational areas, and preservation of historically and culturally valuable properties.
Economics and Commercial Uses Recommendations
ISSUE: SAND AND GRAVEL MINING
GOAL: Provide for the sand and gravel industry in the Verde Valley to function while protecting the river corridor values.
STRATEGY: Identify the respective responsibilities of each relevant agency as they pertain to the sand and gravel industry (i.e., Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), Yavapai County Flood Control District).
STRATEGY: Work together with the commercial and public agency interests to discover compatible and multiple uses of the river corridor and alternative sites for incompatible uses.
Meet with agencies such as the Arizona Game & Fish Department (AGFD), Forest Service (FS), and the sand and gravel industries to determine compatible and multiple uses and alternative sites for incompatible uses.
After reviewing EPA's completed Advance Identification (ADID) study, prepare a plan that establishes guidelines for appropriate multiple uses of the Verde River.
STRATEGY: Investigate the possibility of ADEQ assuming the administrative responsibilities of EPA in regulating the activities in the streambed of the Verde River and its tributaries.
The VRCP Steering Committee should request the governmental entities of the Verde Valley to meet with the directors of ADEQ, COE, and EPA, Region 9, to address the issue of state jurisdiction over the administration of the Clean Water Act. State assumption requires a substantial, sustained funding commitment. Currently, the state (through Section 401) and EPA have veto power over permits issued by COE.
STRATEGY: Identify the proper agencies and the processes for obtaining permits, such as the COE 404 permit, to work in or near streams and rivers.
Work with the Water Issues subcommittee and the involved agencies to compile the agencies, addresses, laws, procedures, and affected activities into one reference brochure.
ISSUE: AGRICULTURE
GOAL: Promote the retention of open lands and agricultural uses along the Verde River Corridor while protecting corridor values and resources.
STRATEGY: Both the public and private sector should assist farmers in protecting their agricultural lands through mechanisms such as conservation easements, tax exemptions and/or reduction to encourage lands remaining as agricultural land. (As development occurs farmers are unable to pay the increasing tax burden and ultimately have to give up their land or sell to developers.)
Investigate existing tax laws and assessment policies as they relate to agriculture and development and the potential for modification to them.
Prepare a proposal to state, county, and local agencies based upon the findings to allow the assessment and tax structures to be more sympathetic toward this goal.
Work with groups and agencies such as Soil Conservation Service (SCS), Environmental Defense Fund, local Natural Resource Conservation Districts, and irrigation districts to develop more efficient irrigation practices in order to maintain at least minimum instream flows for local fish, wildlife, and recreation requirements.
Work with experts and agencies to explore and implement wise agricultural practices to improve water quality returning to the Verde River from fields.
Explore the potential of purchasing conservation easements or development rights from interested agricultural landowners.
ISSUE: HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS & ZONING (LAND DEVELOPMENT)
GOAL: Maintain and/or increase open space along the Verde River Corridor while accommodating for planned growth.
STRATEGY: Coordinate land use planning and zoning among Yavapai County and the cities along the river corridor.
Amend land use plans to provide continuity among the various plans for the river corridor.
Encourage Yavapai County Planning and Zoning to implement, and the cities to adopt, Open Space/Resource Conservation Zones to preserve scenic and recreational areas.
Propose density transfer guidelines to the governing entities along the Verde River and encourage planned unit development which takes advantage of density transfer.
STRATEGY: Encourage local flood control agencies to review existing maps and update or correct obvious mapping errors.
Work with Yavapai County, ADWR, and cities to update or correct mapping errors.
ISSUE: BENEFITS OF THE RIVER CORRIDOR TO THE LOCAL ECONOMY
GOAL: Utilize the Verde River Corridor and its cultural, visual, and natural resource values to promote tourism and as a quality of life incentive to attract tourists, new businesses, and new residents.
STRATEGY: Encourage local Chambers of Commerce, municipalities, and businesses to highlight the river corridor and its amenities in their promotions.
Continue to actively support special river-related events such as Verde River Days and Fort Verde Days.
Conduct promotional activities which highlight the aesthetic and recreational opportunities along the corridor, such as photography, walking, canoeing, bird watching, and painting.
STRATEGY: Encourage physical connections between the river and other aspects of community life through the planning for contiguous open space corridors that link other opportunities such as trails, Old Town Cottonwood, historic settlements, riverfront businesses, parks, and residential developments.
Ask the City of Cottonwood to plan and develop a pedestrian connection between Old Town Cottonwood and the Verde River Greenway system trails.
Ask Arizona State Parks, through the Verde River Greenway Master Planning process, to coordinate facility development and open space connections with local community planning.
Encourage Yavapai County and the cities and towns along the river to seek and utilize matching funds from the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and Heritage Trust Fund to develop the river corridor as an outdoor recreation and tourism resource.
STRATEGY: Encourage local, private, and public owners of historically and culturally valuable properties to preserve, restore and enhance them as attributes of the Verde Valley.
Develop a comprehensive historic context study for the Verde River Corridor.
Work with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), Arizona Historical Society, National Park Service (NPS), Forest Service, and local organizations to identify significant cultural resources.
Encourage groups to apply to SHPO for survey and planning matching grant funds.
Nominate appropriate properties to the National Register of Historic Places.
Determine which areas are best suited to interpretive purposes and which should be avoided for preservation purposes. Institute protective measures and interpretive programs for appropriate sites (includes signage).
Recommend that the study results generated from this process be made available to professional archaeologists, historians, cultural geographers, and planners so that further cultural resources research can be generated.
Land Conservation
The Verde River Corridor contains natural, cultural, and scenic resources of state and national significance. The cottonwood-willow riparian community type that thrives along the Verde is considered the most threatened forest community in North America and the riparian area found along the Verde River Corridor is one of only five remaining extensive stands in Arizona.
The State of Arizona recognized the importance of this area and created the Verde River Greenway to protect as much of this riparian area as possible. This cottonwood-willow riparian gallery forest supports a disproportionate number of wildlife species compared to the small portion of land that it covers. The Verde is also home to over 50 threatened, endangered, and sensitive species of fish, wildlife, and plants.
The river segment just below the corridor has been designated by Congress as a National Wild & Scenic River because of its outstandingly remarkable values. The entire Verde Valley is rich in history and prehistory. There are two national monuments in the corridor protecting nationally significant prehistoric ruins. Five state parks can be found in the general area with four state parks located directly along the river and its tributaries. There are several city parks within the corridor. The scenic values of the Verde and its tributaries are known nationwide, especially recognizing Oak Creek Canyon/Red Rock Country, the Sycamore Canyon, Wet Beaver Creek, and West Clear Creek Wilderness areas, and the upper Verde River Canyon now gaining fame as a scenic excursion train tour.
Many of these resources have come under increasing pressure from uncontrolled recreational use, pollution, inappropriate use, and development. As growth continues in the Verde Valley, some of these resources are being degraded and, in some instances, lost. There is a need for programs that inform and educate all sectors of the community of the Verde's values and of the significance the river plays in each of our lives.
Many of the most significant natural areas along the Verde are in private ownership, and will require privately initiated protection strategies. Those landowners interested in protecting and enhancing the resource values of their properties can find assistance from local land trusts and conservation groups.
Interest in the Verde River Corridor comes from groups as diverse as recreational users, businessmen, and representatives from local industries. While the interests of these groups differ and sometimes conflict, there is an underlying consensus that the Verde River Corridor is a valuable resource to the State of Arizona, the Southwest region, and the nation, and that it demands careful management to conserve its unique qualities. In a recent news release from American Rivers, the national organization established to protect the nation's rivers, the Verde River was identified as one of the nation's top 15 threatened rivers, primarily from proposed water exchange plans.
There has been concern expressed that some of the issues of resource use and management that the residents of the Verde Valley are currently confronting may not be adequately addressed through the existing processes, and that deterioration of the unique resources of the corridor may result. Based on the values of these resources to the people of the valley and their commitment to maintaining these resources in the future, the local officials, residents and users of the Verde have indicated strong support for a concerted effort to conserve the river. The VRCP can be a balanced voice for these concerns.
Land Conservation Subcommittee
The Land Conservation Subcommittee faced an enormous amount of issues requiring solutions. There were many diverse issues grouped under the heading of "land conservation," such as riparian habitat, fish and wildlife protection, cultural resources, flooding and erosion, scenic values, land use and development concerns, land ethics and education, and land protection strategies. As part of the brainstorming process, an excellent video was shown to all committee members demonstrating how the community of Boulder, Colorado executed their Action Plan for the Boulder Creek Corridor. It opened up a wide range of possibilities for the Verde.
Because of the complex environmental systems and interactions along the Verde, the committee determined that a resource inventory and assessment were needed. With the assistance of the Yavapai County Flood Control District, Arizona State University, and Arizona State Land Department, maps of both the Verde Basin and the corridor were created, showing the hydrology and floodplains, vegetation, slope, land use, and land ownership. Current aerial photographs were taken to provide the committee with up to date pictures of the river and its surrounding lands.
A contract was initiated with the Department of Planning at Arizona State University to gather information on the natural and scenic resources of the Verde River Corridor, and on areas needing restoration. A special Visual Resource Assessment was also conducted. Much of this work was accomplished in cooperation with the Verde Natural Resource Conservation District with assistance from Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
EPA and FWS are conducting a resource inventory and evaluation of the biological resources of the Verde River Corridor to assist in its efforts to protect the nation's environment. The committee organized a special presentation for the VRCP and general public on EPA's Advanced Identification (ADID) project for the Verde River. Several other special presentations and open forums were also organized in conjunction with the other subcommittees, including discussions on the sand and gravel issue, visual resource assessment, and water issues.
The Arizona Game & Fish Department, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, Forest Service, and Fish & Wildlife Service have also conducted resource studies on portions of the Verde River providing invaluable information to the committee. The results of those studies are now being finalized and evaluated, which will provide an excellent baseline to begin working on the recommendations and action items outlined below. After reviewing and analyzing the completed studies, the committee may decide to develop more specific recommendations.
Land Conservation Recommendations
ISSUE: RIPARIAN HABITAT
GOAL: Protect, enhance and restore the riparian ecosystems along the Verde River Corridor.
STRATEGY: Develop or adopt an acceptable definition of "riparian" that meets the needs of the Verde River Corridor.
The Steering Committee should adopt the accepted State of Arizona definition for "riparian area" developed by the Governor's Riparian Habitat Task Force.
STRATEGY: Develop a riparian habitat management strategy to maintain and enhance the resource and provide for fish and wildlife habitat.
Review and catalog existing information on the Verde Basin as a whole and, specifically, on the Verde River Corridor's riparian systems. Determine suitability for use of this information in determining areas in need of protection or restoration.
Work with the AGFD, FS, Arizona Riparian Council, private landowners, municipalities and other knowledgeable organizations in the development of a management strategy.
Conduct a mapped inventory of existing riparian areas and their condition, using both existing information and field work (utilize information from the FWS/AGFD riparian mapping project, EPA Advance Identification, and the Verde NRCD Verde Riparian Project/ASU riparian reclamation study).
Develop management objectives and implementation strategies for the protection, enhancement and restoration of important riparian systems along the Verde River Corridor (identify management source, funding, and technical supportconsider additions to the County Open Space Zoning Overlay).
Support efforts of the Verde NRCD Verde Riparian Project to revegetate needed areas along the Verde River Corridor and throughout the Verde Basin.
Support protective management efforts of ASPB's Verde River Greenway and AGFD's Tavasci Marsh area.
ISSUE: FLOODING AND EROSION
GOAL: Reduce the negative impacts of flooding and erosion along the Verde River Corridor.
STRATEGY: Develop an understanding of the dynamics of flooding and erosion on the Verde River Corridor and its resources.
Review and catalog existing information on flood control and erosion methods. Determine suitability for use by consideration of a combination of structural and non-structural programs to reduce flood damage and erosion while enhancing the values associated with flood plains.
Review actual data for Verde River, photos, flow data, local documentation the effects of river channel modifications and discuss with specialists.
STRATEGY: Utilize flooding and erosion information in resource management.
Work with the appropriate municipalities to ensure that the development of suitable lands be carried out in strict compliance with applicable FEMA regulations to minimize both future flood damage and liability.
Identify areas that could benefit from stabilization or channel modification.
Work with the Yavapai County Flood Control District to control flooding and reduce erosion while protecting the riparian systems that require periodic flooding to maintain themselves as dynamic ecosystems.
ISSUE: SCENIC VALUES
GOAL: Protect, maintain and enhance the scenic qualities that the Verde River and its riparian corridor contribute to the Verde Valley.
STRATEGY: Develop a visual resource management strategy to maintain and enhance the enjoyment of the river.
Conduct a visual resource inventory and assessment of the Verde River Corridor (under contract with ASU Dept. of Planning).
Develop management objectives and implementation strategies to protect, maintain and enhance the scenic qualities of the Verde River (identify management source, funding, and technical support).
ISSUE: LAND ETHIC/EDUCATION
GOAL: Develop a greater recognition, understanding, appreciation, respect, and responsibility toward the Verde River and its resources.
STRATEGY: Identify and expand existing educational programs and positive influences that impact people's opinions of the Verde River and its resources.
Work with the Verde River Days Committee and other local groups to promote awareness of the importance of the Verde River. Continue and expand river awareness programs such as environmental awareness presentations, clean up days, and river celebrations.
Work with government entities such as Arizona State Parks, Arizona Game & Fish Department and Tuzigoot National Monument to support public education efforts.
Work with the Environmental Education Center to support its educational efforts and explore sources for additional funding.
Publish and make available results of the Verde River Corridor Project.
STRATEGY: Help people understand that the Verde River is a finite, limited resource and that there is a "carrying capacity" that cannot be exceeded in terms of recreation and commercial use if current Corridor qualities and benefits are to be maintained.
Work with relevant organizations and agencies to determine appropriate carrying capacities and levels of use for the Verde River Corridor.
ISSUE: CULTURAL RESOURCES
GOAL: Preserve and protect the prehistoric, historic, and archaeological cultural resources of the Verde River Corridor.
STRATEGY: Develop a cultural resource management strategy for the Verde River Corridor.
Review and catalog existing information to identify and evaluate resources known. Determine suitability for use.
Contact the Forest Service, NPS, SHPO, Arizona Historical Society and local historical organizations for assistance in developing a management strategy.
Conduct a cultural resources inventory for the Verde River Corridor (utilize existing information and specialists).
Develop management objectives and implementation strategies for the protection and preservation of the cultural resources of the Verde River Corridor (identify management source, funding, technical support).
ISSUE: PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS
GOAL: Protect the environmentally sensitive areas of the Verde Basin that are in need of protective management.
STRATEGY: Identify those sensitive areas that are important for threatened, endangered or sensitive species, and plant communities that contain unique or limited plant/animal populations or areas with high wildlife observation potential.
Review and catalog existing information to identify and evaluate resources known. Determine suitability for use. Exact locations of sensitive species will not be publicized.
Map out those areas in need of special protection. Work with knowledgeable individuals and agencies.
Prepare strategies for the protection and management of those special areas (i.e. agency management/acquisition, conservation easements, cooperative agreements with landowners, etc.).
STRATEGY: Consider supporting special designation and/or management for areas that possess important resources or qualities.
Work with agencies that manage or regulate lands and resources along the Verde River Corridor (and major tributaries) to explore special designations such as Wild & Scenic River, Scenic Area, Unique Waters, State Natural Areas, Critical Habitat, National Register of Historic Places, etc.
ISSUE: LAND USE
GOAL: Support public involvement of ongoing land use planning efforts and promote incorporation of considerations for human and environmental needs of the Verde Valley. Enlist cooperative agencies in planning efforts.
STRATEGY: Conserve open space and protect natural, cultural, and scenic resources.
The need for open space in the Verde River Corridor should be determined and standards developed for the amount, distribution and type of open space.
Manage land conservation and development activities in a manner that accurately reflects the community's desires for a quality environment and a healthy economy and in a manner consistent with state environmental quality statutes, rules, standards and implementation plans.
Explore existing and potential zoning designations to protect open space and natural, cultural and scenic resource values. Develop consistent riverfront corridor zoning ordinances and other land use regulations throughout the corridor.
Restore abandoned sand and gravel extraction sites, considering natural, scenic, and recreation values.
STRATEGY: Conserve agricultural lands for open space and scenic qualities.
Work with appropriate organizations to develop means to buffer agricultural lands from incompatible adjacent land uses.
Work with appropriate organizations to develop incentives to retain lands as agricultural lands or as open space.
Encourage local planning and zoning departments to give preference to requests to maintain zoning for agricultural lands and open space.
STRATEGY: Promote the practice of personal land stewardship to protect and conserve the natural and cultural resources of the Verde River Corridor.
Work with the Verde NRCD, The Nature Conservancy, Northern Arizona Trust Lands, and others to involve and educate cooperative landowners in effective land conservation and stewardship practices.
Develop information on land conservation strategies (cooperative partnerships, conservation easements, land trusts, etc.) that can be utilized by individuals or private organizations.
Through meetings, workshops, media, and correspondence, inform private property owners of the various land conservation options and opportunities available to them.
STRATEGY: Protect life and property from natural disasters and hazards.
Support open storage, forestry, agriculture, recreation, and other non- hazardous, low density/open space usage of floodplain lands, consistent with the degree and frequency of flooding.
Private Property
As Americans, we hold dear the right to own property. The protection of private property rights has been a cornerstone of the VRCP. The issues surrounding the rights of landowners have permeated every committee and issue. The priority issues identified included river access conflicts, trespassing, littering, law enforcement, landowner liability, health and safety, landowners rights and responsibilities, and zoning regulations.
Many Verde Valley residents purchased their riverfront properties to escape the urban problems of overcrowding, noise, pollution, crime, and the stress of living in the "fast lane." They chose a scenic, peaceful community primarily rural in nature, but with adequate big city amenities of stores, restaurants, banks, jobs and entertainment. Many of these landowners are now finding that this quiet country lifestyle is rapidly changing. The communities are expanding, more riverfront homes are being built, roads and bridges are planned, recreationists are crossing private property to access the river corridor, and pollutants are seeping into the river and underground water supply.
The population of the Verde Valley has nearly doubled over the last decade. The growth projections for the future indicate the trend will continue with many people predicting that the Verde Valley will be the third largest metropolitan area in Arizona by the year 2000 (see population table in Commercial Values section).
Unless we plan ahead for this growth and increased population, the changes to the communities, the demands on the water supply and other resources, and the overuse of the Verde River will result in negative changes to the Verde Valley's high quality of life. Also, as more people settle the rural areas and seek outdoor experiences, more laws and regulations are passed to ensure that all citizens' rights are protected, including the property owner and the general citizen. The increasing number of regulations can become confusing, even overwhelming.
Private Property Subcommittee
The Private Property Subcommittee, in its efforts to develop recommendations to protect landowners rights, felt that it needed to understand the various state and federal, county, and local laws that affect private property rights. During this process, questions were raised regarding issues such as establishing conservation easements, development rights in floodplains, and potential liability of landowners if they allow people access to the river across their land.
One of the first tasks accomplished by the Private Property Subcommittee was the development of a publication entitled, "A Summary of Rights and Duties of Private Property Ownership along the Verde River Corridor." The report summarizes the most important and/or common laws, regulations, and ordinances of local, state, and federal agencies that affect private property rights and the casual user of the Verde River. A special question and answer session was held during one of the public meetings to address the issues covered in the report. This publication is part of the VRCP Action Plan.
At the request of longtime resident and rancher, Dave Perkins, a tour was scheduled for VRCP committee members to see parts of the river corridor and how it is used and managed by local ranchers. The issues discussed ranged from land use, conservation, property rights, and the future of the river. It was an extremely informative tour for all who attended, giving firsthand insight into some of the problems faced by landowners.
One of the priority recommendations of the subcommittee involves contacting every landowner along the Verde River Corridor, informing them of the VRCP's goals, and soliciting their opinions and willingness to participate in the VRCP's efforts to coordinate the management of the river. A workshop format is suggested for landowners interested in learning more about personal land stewardship methods, conservation easements, and personal property rights. The publication mentioned above would be available to those who participated in the workshop.
Private Property Recommendations
ISSUE: PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS
GOAL: Protect the rights of private property owners along the Verde River Corridor
STRATEGY: Ensure that the rights of private property owners are a priority issue in all river-related management decisionslocally, regionally, statewide, and nationally.
Ensure that any acquisition of private land for public purposes is not through judicial or condemnation processes.
Ensure that all involvement in providing public access or protection efforts by private property owners is voluntary.
Ensure that landowners have input regarding land decisions concerning river access.
Determine what policies, ordinances, regulations, and laws currently affect landowners.
GOAL: Increase agency and public awareness of private property rights and wishes.
STRATEGY: Identify the key problem areas of public river corridor use and management perceived by landowners.
Work with landowners, agencies, and the public to understand and seek solutions to the identified problems and issues.
ISSUE: LANDOWNER PARTICIPATION
GOAL: Maximize private property owner participation in discussing and resolving corridor conflicts.
STRATEGY: Determine how landowners and the public are currently involved in the decision-making process.
Seek a better public understanding of the laws and regulations governing ownership and rights to floodplain lands and streambeds.
Seek a better understanding of the land use planning process and zoning regulations as they apply to private property owners.
Inform landowners of all plans, proposals, developments, and decisions that could affect owners and their properties, and the river corridor.
Encourage all agencies to seek public participation in all decisions that could affect the river corridor and private property rights.
STRATEGY: Determine which landowners would be interested in participating in a greenway protection program or recreational access program.
Conduct a survey of all landowners along the river asking relevant questions about landowner attitudes regarding public use of riverfront lands and willingness to participate in land stewardship programs.
Hold an invitational meeting with interested private landowners along the river to discuss feelings and options for stewardship, habitat protection, use, river access, and protection of personal rights and property.
Encourage agencies and groups who deal with conservation easements and other land protection strategies to meet with interested landowners.
GOAL: Formalize the coordinating function of groups like the VRCP to ensure landowner and interagency communication and consistency on plans and decisions for the river corridor.
STRATEGY: Explore the feasibility of establishing an ongoing Verde River Corridor organization.
Establish an ongoing Verde River Corridor group to work with local communities, municipalities, businesses, organizations, landowners, and state and federal agencies to ensure consideration of private property rights and wishes in all management decisions.
Identify which agencies have jurisdiction over various corridor lands and resources. Identify who has responsibility for or can assist in providing law enforcement, vandalism, and litter control.
Identify what entity(s) will have management and enforcement responsibilities for public access sites and private easement lands in the river corridor.
ISSUE: LANDOWNER OPPORTUNITIES & STEWARDSHIP
GOAL: Encourage private landowners to allow public access to the river corridor across their property while protecting their rights and wishes.
STRATEGY: Identify benefits and liabilities to property owners of providing access to the Verde River Corridor.
Identify possible types of easements and agreements to be utilized by a property owner if he/she agrees to voluntarily provide public access to the corridor. Reversionary clauses should be included in property owner's agreement.
Inform landowners of the provisions of the Arizona Recreational Liability law and of the protection it can provide private property owners.
Inform landowners of sources for practical and technical assistance in land conservation techniques.
GOAL: Implement a plan to inform private property owners of their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.
STRATEGY: Identify the various policies, ordinances, regulations, and laws that affect private property and landowner rights and responsibilities.
Publish an understandable summary of the various policies, ordinances, regulations, and laws that affect private property and landowner rights (completed as part of the VRCP Action Plan).
Inform landowners along the Verde River Corridor of their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities through informal meetings, public meetings, workshops, and correspondence.
Recreation
The Verde River is a favored destination area for many recreational activities. This year-round flowing river and its tributaries with their lush green vegetation and combination of steep-walled canyons and broad floodplains offer recreational opportunities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, swimming, hiking, hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, bird watching, exploration of history, nature study, photography, painting, picknicking, camping, backpacking, train riding, sightseeing, and just plain relaxing. Recreational pursuits on the river also provide diverse economic benefits to local communities.
One of the most popular recreation pursuits along the Verde is boating, specifically white water boating that can be found along Arizona's only National Wild & Scenic River segment. This 39.5 mile stretch of the Verde runs from Beasley Flat to Red Creek and was designated as Wild & Scenic by Congress in 1984. It is managed by the Forest Service which has just written the management plan for this unique area. This section contains the greatest concentration of rapids on the entire Verde River with an International Whitewater rating from Class I to III.
Other sections of the Verde are frequent destinations for those people wanting a less strenuous boating experience. As interest in the river develops, people are exploring the river with inflatable kayaks and canoes since these crafts can use the river at low flows; they effectively extend the river-running season. Canoeing is gaining in popularity as new materials are employed in the construction of canoes suitable to the rocky, low water levels common in the Verde River. Along the wider, deeper stretches, rowboats and a commercial tour boat make use of the river.
Aside from leisure boating and whitewater sports, the Verde River Corridor supports a year-round warm water fishery for catfish and smallmouth bass. The river is now being stocked by the Arizona Game & Fish Department with rainbow trout during the cooler winter months. Fishing from shore or a boat is a popular pastime for people.
The lush riparian habitat along the Verde River Corridor supports many species of wildlife. This makes the river an excellent place to bird watch and observe other animal species not found elsewhere in the Verde Valley. People especially enjoy seeing the animals that are drawn to the river, such as the river otter, beaver, bald eagle, ducks and geese, and the graceful great blue heron. Most people spend much of their time by the river just walking along the banks, playing in the water, and sitting at the water's edge experiencing the beautiful scenery, the running water, and getting in touch with nature.
Recreational use of the Verde has increased in recent years and the trend is expected to continue. Whether or not increased usage is good or bad, and the extent to which the Verde can, or should, accommodate anglers, canoeists, hikers, and other recreationists continues to be sharply debated. There is a limit to the amount of recreational use the Verde can and should withstand. There is an increasing need for control over recreational use and river access. Riverfront owners have expressed concern over an increase in trespassing, late night partying, littering, and vandalism.
One of the most frequently mentioned concerns about recreational use has been access to the river. Because the river is heavily used, existing access points are rapidly being overtaxed. Where these access points involve private land, trespassing and littering was a frequently cited concern. At public access points, the concern was for better monitoring and maintenance of facilities.
There is also a growing conflict between the various recreational activities. Off-road vehicle use of the river corridor (and other areas in the Verde Valley) has been a subject of long debate. Competition between mountain bikers, horsemen, hikers, and bird watchers for use of favorite areas may also arise as more people crowd into the few available public areas.
Recreation Subcommittee
The Recreation Subcommittee was formed to prioritize, study, and recommend solutions to the many issues of concern to both landowners and recreationists. This committee was a particularly active, motivated group. The first task identified was the completion of a recreational assessment of the existing activities, access areas, and concerns along the corridor. Knowledgeable local residents gathered the needed information, plotted the information on maps, and presented the assessment and recommendations to the Steering Committee.
The second task was to find a way to provide the public with information on the recreational opportunities and public access sites available along the river corridor. A public river access brochure has been developed in cooperation with the local managing entities and will be published as part of the VRCP Action Plan. A special question and answer session on hunting and trapping issues and law enforcement along the river corridor was organized as a recommendation from this subcommittee.
The Recreation Subcommittee has enjoyed enthusiastic participation from a diverse group of individuals, from canoeists to horsemen to bird watchers to concerned environmentalists. The subcommittee has addressed several important issues, yet in summarizing their efforts on the VRCP they wish to offer the following:
1. An issue of conflict has been identified involving public access and the effect that will have on the environment and wildlife. Our position is to attempt to control access by pointing river users to designated legal access areas thereby eliminating much of the random and often illegal access points. Even legal access may have some adverse effect but by monitoring traffic in usage areas there is at least some control. Hopefully abuse to private property can be reduced by selective yet quality access points.
2. We support and recommend continued purchase of river property by federal and state agencies whenever and wherever possible and keep the land open to the public. We also encourage all municipalities with planning and zoning responsibilities along the river to be sensitive to environmental and visual impacts of future development and to keep the land open to the public.
3. Public awareness, education, and involvement issues, need to be continually addressed. The annual Verde River Days in September is proving to be informational and successful. Perhaps when new access points are developed and in place, civic groups and clubs could adopt sections of the river to beautify and keep them litter free. Possibly a classroom presentation by Arizona State Parks, Game & Fish and/or Forest Service for area schools could be funded and produced. Even better would be a cooperative program between agencies, the Verde Environmental Education Center, and local schools. There is a need to educate and inform on an ongoing basis.
4. Another significant concern is the "political" impact on the Verde. The number of agencies, associations, and private entities that have jurisdictional responsibilities as well as flow and mining claims is mind boggling. To contemplate the river as a victim can not be ignored. The future holds many questions for the Verde - from the ground water rights at the headwaters to a kitchen faucet in a Phoenix condominium. There are still the roots of a hundred year old cottonwood tree in Clarkdale fighting to survive. Politics, and not Mother Nature, might determine its future.
5. The work of all the subcommittees draws to a close with the completion of what we hope will be a valuable and worthwhile report. Several participants have discussed the possibility of continuing with some type of organization to monitor developments along the river. Such an organization could meet quarterly and be a means whereby federal, state, county, and community agencies with Verde River involvement might coordinate efforts and future planning for a harmonious Verde of the future.
Recreation Recommendations
ISSUE: RECREATIONAL ACCESS
GOAL: Develop a formal assessment of existing recreational activities along the Verde River Corridor and identify access points and areas of conflict. Also, identify future needs and problem areas.
STRATEGY: Work with agencies, groups, and individuals to develop an assessment of existing and potential recreational activities, access points, and areas of conflict between competing uses and with private property owners.
Create a map depicting recreational activities, access, and land ownership by agency (completed as part of the VRCP Action Plan).
Create a report to be distributed to the Steering Committee defining recreational activities and access presently available on the Verde River, areas of concern, and suggestions for resolution (completed as part of the VRCP Action Plan).
GOAL: Ensure adequate public access to the Verde River Corridor by identifying and planning for needed access points.
STRATEGY: Identify and plan for needed access points to be developed with the assistance of involved agencies, landowners, and interest groups.
Support the planned development of nine new public recreation access sites along the corridor using State Lake Improvement Funds.
Work with the public, local towns, Yavapai County, and state and federal agencies to identify the most suitable public access points. Analyze information when available and develop a plan regarding access issues and contact agencies for possible implementation.
Work with local towns and Yavapai County to pursue funding assistance for additional river access sites through the State Lake Improvement Fund and Arizona Heritage Fund under Arizona State Parks.
Develop and manage river access according to the compatibility of activities and their impact on the resources of the corridor. Restrict access where undesirable.
Encourage the AGFD to provide additional fishing access sites if they expand their trout stocking program along the river corridor.
Encourage Arizona State Parks to provide adequate access sites for public use of the Verde River Greenway.
ISSUE: LACK OF INFORMATION ABOUT RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES
GOAL: Develop a plan for distribution of information regarding recreational opportunities and access points along the Verde River Corridor.
STRATEGY: Identify the existing and planned recreational opportunities and public access sites.
Publish information about the river corridor's recreational opportunities and public access sites and distribute it to the interested public (accomplished as part of the VRCP Action Plan).
Keep local agencies, chambers of commerce, businesses, interest groups informed of recreational opportunities and public access sites.
Encourage the Arizona Department of Transportation and other agencies to provide for recreational access to the river within the right of way next to all bridge crossings. Also, encourage agencies building new bridges over the river to incorporate appropriate graphics into the bridge structures to enhance awareness of river values (similar to the "petroglyphs" on new highway structures).
STRATEGY: Through cooperative efforts, identify and plan for the development of informational materials about the Verde's recreational opportunities and public access sites.
Work with local groups who provide opportunities for recreation along the corridor to coordinate and cooperate regarding the publication and distribution of information.
Develop a coordinated river corridor access logo to be used on all corridor publications and informational and directional signs (along roads and along the river).
Develop signs and publications that emphasize river safety and identify hazards. This information is especially needed for boaters and swimmers along the corridor.
Explore potential to establish a local clearinghouse with information about current river conditions along the corridor (i.e., SRP maintains a phone line in Phoenix with a taped message about flow conditions).
STRATEGY: Through cooperative efforts, identify and plan for the research, gathering, and analysis of information about the Verde's recreational opportunities and public access sites.
Work with agencies, universities and organizations to conduct an assessment of natural and cultural resource interpretive opportunities along the river corridor (signs, trails, sites, tours, publications, etc.).
Work with agencies and universities to coordinate a long-term study on recreational use and trends of the Verde River Corridor.
ISSUE: PROBLEMS/CONFLICTS CONCERNING
RECREATION USE
GOAL: Minimize conflicts between recreational users and private property owners.
STRATEGY: Identify existing and potential conflicts between recreational users and private property owners and develop strategies to resolve the conflicts.
Develop a plan for improved signage of public recreation areas and opportunities.
Provide riverfront property owners with "No Trespassing" signs to be installed at needed points along the corridor.
Work with agencies and businesses in the development of publications to include comments on appropriate behavior for recreationists when using private lands.
Develop a plan to inform both recreationists and private property owners of their rights and responsibilities regarding public use of private property.
Work with land managing agencies and law enforcement groups to educate the public, and when necessary, enforce use restrictions (i.e. activities that violate laws and policies regarding noise levels, littering, trespassing, erosion, seasonal restrictions, wildlife protection, personal privacy).
Explore suitable types of buffers, fencing and barriers, if needed, between areas of recreational use of the corridor and private property.
Explore the potential of making the existing water diversion structures into permanent structures (designed to include recreational boating) for safety reasons, economic benefits, and to enhance recreational boating.
Encourage the sand and gravel industry to work cooperatively with interested groups to develop and reclaim previously mined sand and gravel sites for recreational sites.
Encourage the local planning and zoning departments to stipulate dedicated public river access sites in all new riverfront developments.
Encourage communication and cooperation between private landowners and associations and municipal governments regarding floodplain regulations and riverfront developments designed to enhance recreational use of corridor lands to avoid unsafe facilities.
GOAL: Minimize conflicts between the various recreational users.
STRATEGY: Identify existing and potential conflicts between the various recreational users along the corridor and develop strategies to resolve the conflicts.
Work with agencies and businesses who plan and provide for the various recreational users to iron out existing and potential conflicts.
GOAL: Promote improved river user behavior and cooperation by increasing public and river user behavior education, awareness, and involvement.
STRATEGY: Identify strategies to improve river user behavior and cooperation.
Directly involve recreational organizations and interested individuals in the planning and developing of recreational facilities and programs.
Work with agencies and businesses to include comments on appropriate recreational behavior in relevant publications and signs. Encourage the creation of "positive" wording on brochures and signs.
GOAL: Minimize environmental impacts to the river corridor when planning and developing recreation access sites and facilities.
STRATEGY: Identify which developments and activities pose potential environmental problems such as lowered water quality, soil erosion or compaction, and habitat disturbance.
Work with agencies such as the SCS, Forest Service, EPA, AGFD, and ADEQ to develop appropriate construction methods and encourage activities that do not negatively impact the environment.
Work specifically with ADEQ on all corridor projects to determine the potential of the project to increase or decrease the water quality of the affected area.
Water
Perennial streams and the extensive riparian forests that they support provide water for domestic needs, habitat for fish and wildlife, fertile soils and water for agriculture, water and forage for livestock, resources for industry, and they contribute to the visual quality of the valley. Expanding demands for water by agriculture, mining, industry, and cities have taken their toll on all of Arizona's streams and wetlands, and the Verde River is one of the only remaining perennial desert rivers in Arizona. Both the quantity and quality of the flows of the Verde have been severely altered, and these changes constitute a major threat to future fish and wildlife, vegetation, and human needs of the river resources.
Riparian areas are now Arizona's most threatened natural communities, and the cottonwood-willow gallery forests, which once formed lush canopies along the state's desert river systems, are now the rarest forest type in North America. Furthermore, the supply and quality of these riparian resources continue to diminish, primarily from the loss of water to competing uses and from land use practices that destabilize riparian communities.
The healthy riparian ecosystem that performs irreplaceable functions relies upon a continuing flow of water in the Verde River. These riparian areas help regulate streamflow by storing heavy rainfall and releasing it slowly; they reduce the ferocity of floods and stabilize streambank erosion; they improve water quality by filtering and degrading pollutants; and they can help recharge groundwater supplies. Residents look to the Verde River and the related groundwater for clean water to drink, to maintain their lifestyle, and for water-based recreation such as fishing and canoeing.
A healthy riparian ecosystem maintains biological diversity by providing food and shelter to the majority of the birds, wildlife, and fish that exist in Arizona (see Natural Values section). In fact, several federal and state threatened and endangered species rely on the Verde's resources for their continued existence. Finally, efforts to protect or enhance land resources, recreational uses, private property values, and economic benefits will be unsuccessful if there is not adequate water in the river.
Threats to the instream flows of the Verde River could loom in the futureCentral Arizona Project water exchanges, water transfers, inefficient irrigation practices, increased groundwater pumping, and to supply proposed major residential and commercial developments. Likewise, the water quality of the Verde could be jeopardized by sewage and urban runoff, toxic wastes, sediment eroded from overgrazed rangeland, chemical runoff from irrigation, leaching from mine tailings, and non-permitted sand and gravel mining processes. The pool of users and agencies that affect or are affected by the quantity and the quality of the river flows is enormous and diverse; it includes ditch companies, water companies, ADWR, SRP, BR, ADEQ, EPA, ASPB, AGFD, FS, and citizens. The list is endless; it is no wonder confusion exists.
A number of policy and management issues emerge from these resource demands. There is a clear policy need to balance competing uses and protect the Verde River flows and riparian areas; there is a clear management need for a framework for comprehensive communication and coordination between various water management authorities and the Verde Valley communities.
Water Subcommittee
Water issues in Arizonabe it quantity, quality, or managementare now and always have been extremely complex. Attorneys, politicians, and regular people have fought over water here for over a hundred years. Therefore, the Water Subcommittee made information gathering and dissemination through meetings and public forums a number one priority.
Throughout the project, public forums and presentations were provided on water rights and transfers, incentive-based mechanisms for water conservation, ADWR's State Water Resources Plan, the role of SRP in the Verde Valley, and EPA's Advance Identification Study. A well-attended interagency meeting was held to discuss water issues that affect the Verde Valley, and a meeting was held between ADWR's representatives and local VRCP committee members to discuss communication and coordination between the agency and the local communities.
Several specific recommendations for coordination with state and federal agencies to study and address issues such as water quality, water transfers, and instream flows were proposed. The Water Subcommittee, along with the Economics & Commercial Uses Subcommittee, has recommended that a brochure be produced to explain the administering agencies, laws, procedures, and permits for working in or near the river.
The most difficult, and possibly the most important, issue this subcommittee addressed was that of a need for some type of regional/local water planning, management, and coordinating entity made up of a coalition of existing agency and community representatives. It was decided that a specific recommendation was beyond the scope of this project; however, the firm recommendation that the development of such an entity be studied and implemented is included along with several possible structures for it.
Water Recommendations
ISSUE: WATER QUANTITY
GOAL : Protect, and potentially even enhance or restore, the Verde River instream flows and the habitats, ecosystems, and recreational and other uses that depend on those flows.
STRATEGY: Identify the extent to which present and projected flows support the desired kinds and intensities of uses of the river at desired locations and times and identify the changes in flow necessary to fully support those uses.
Utilize the expertise of the Arizona Department of Water Resources, USGS, Salt River Project, CAP, Natural Resource Conservation Districts, irrigation districts, ditch companies, and local organizations to quantify and evaluate existing, projected, and desired flows.
Involve public, semi-public agencies and private entities to identify existing and desired uses of the water of the Verde River (i.e. ADWR, USGS, Salt River Project, CAP, community and private domestic water companies, ditch companies, SCS, AGFD, BR, FWS, Environmental Defense Fund, Arizona Outdoor Recreation Coordinating Commission); specify existing and desired uses of the water of the Verde River both as to location, season and, perhaps, even time of day; include swimming, fishing, canoeing, aquatic biology, wildlife and riparian habitat, prevention of flood damage, livestock and wildlife watering, power generation, irrigation, human consumption, commercial and industrial water supply, etc.
Form an informational library of documents relating to the water and related topics of the Verde River basin.
Work with involved agencies and organizations to study and gather data to develop a water balance model for the Verde Valley area.
Work with AGFD and ADWR to establish appropriate and/or minimum levels of instream flows to support fish and riparian habitat and recreational boating.
Utilize existing documents such as the FWS final Coordination Act Report and Biological Opinion for the spikedace fish to provide guidance as to the appropriate level to protect environmental requirements.
STRATEGY: Actively identify and encourage individuals, organizations, and agencies that may be able to augment flows to actively pursue instream flow water rights in order to provide legal protection of existing flows.
With assistance from ADWR, work with the FS, AGFD, and ASP to file for instream flow permits (FS has already filed for several).
Work with the Nature Conservancy and other land protection groups to acquire riparian areas and water rights along the Verde River and file for instream flow permits for the Verde River (TNC has recently been granted one for preserving wildlife and recreational values in Ramsey Canyon).
Support legislation that recognizes and clarifies an individual's right to water that he has conserved or salvaged. This creates incentives for individuals to manage and conserve water for local uses and instream flows by recognition of the individual's legal right to water that he has conserved.
Establish a more widespread recognition of instream flows as a beneficial use; this may require legislative amendments. Currently, fish, wildlife, and recreation are legally recognized beneficial uses, but riparian vegetation is not.
STRATEGY: Acquire strategic senior water rights for transfer to instream flow uses. This would provide a direct and perpetual water right to the Verde River with a senior priority date.
Solicit Verde Valley farmers, other landowners, and/or water rights holders that may be willing to sell a portion of their water rights for instream flows.
Investigate sources of funds to acquire water rights, such as public funds, grants, and private funds and donation of water rights.
STRATEGY: Identify and clarify technically, legally, and economically feasible methods to manipulate instream flow (i.e. interbasin transfers, flow augmentation through pumping, basin land use controls, control of basin groundwater withdrawals and consumptive use, conjunctive use of groundwater and surface water, water conservation, basin-wide water reallocation, instream flow water rights, irrigation efficiencies, riparian community management, weather modification, and damming).
Use information already developed as a basis of information (i.e. Riparian Habitat Task Force, ADWR Instream Flow Task Force, State Water Plan, USGS, SRP, BR/Fort McDowell Tribe settlement study).
Collect information about existing programs and data through public and semi- public agencies and private entities to improve the locally available body of knowledge regarding legal, technical, and ecological issues surrounding instream flows in the Verde River (i.e. ADWR, USGS, SRP, Central Arizona Project, community and private domestic water suppliers, ditch companies, and the SCS).
Provide both technical reporting and public forums on the methods to manipulate, manage, protect, and enhance instream flows.
STRATEGY: Identify and inform the community of the legal, technical, and environmental ramifications of water transfers, water rights, population growth, and industrial uses on the instream flow of the Verde River.
Provide both technical reporting and public forums on the competing water demands of the Verde River as they relate to the instream flow issue.
STRATEGY: Actively pursue water conservation education and conservation programs for agricultural, municipal, and industrial uses in order to satisfy growth, local demand for water, and water for environmental purposes in a compatible manner.
Investigate the effectiveness of conservation programs and water conservation ordinances.
Identify appropriate water conservation strategies for the Verde Valley area to satisfy local water demands for growth and instream flow maintenance.
Work with groups and agencies to develop water conservation programs (i.e. Environmental Defense Fund, The Nature Conservancy, Verde NRCD, Yavapai County, SCS, ADWR, USFWS, USFS, AGFD, local communities, local water companies, irrigation districts, incorporated cities and towns, and AZ State Parks).
ISSUE: WATER QUALITY
GOAL: Improve the water quality where problems exist and prevent further pollution of the waters of the Verde River.
STRATEGY: Identify the extent to which present and projected water quality supports the desired kinds and intensities of use of the river at desired locations and times and identify the changes in water quality necessary to fulfill those uses.
Involve ADEQ, EPA, and USGS to take advantage of their expertise in setting quality standards and monitoring water quality.
STRATEGY: Identify and understand the technical, legal, and economic feasibility of techniques to manipulate instream water quality (i.e. flow augmentation, basin land use controls, point source discharge controls, non-point source pollution practices, stormwater runoff, disposal and storage of potential contaminants, wastewater disposal and treatment practices, floodplain use, damming, sediment and erosion control, and integration of different pollution control practices).
Work with EPA, COE, ADEQ, and the rock products industry to develop workable solutions to sand and gravel operations' conflicts.
Work with county and/or municipal agencies to consider land use controls, floodplain uses, etc. regarding municipal and storm runoff.
Work with county and/or municipal agencies to consider septic tank problems as the population increases in the Verde Valley.
Encourage county and/or municipal agencies to integrate city and regional wastewater treatment planning efforts in order to save money and avoid the need for numerous separate and costly plants.
Investigate and encourage the use of effluent as an alternative to high quality water supplies in some sectors (e.g. turf, irrigation, industrial), and investigate the use of artificial wetlands as an appropriate form of wastewater treatment.
Investigate the quality of shallow groundwater that may be affected either naturally or from infiltration of agricultural runoff and mixing with lower quality groundwater.
Work with public land managers and private landowners to encourage management practices that reduce accelerated erosion and resulting sedimentation into the Verde River.
Work with the Verde Riparian Project/Demonstration Project to highlight strategies to improve water quality and the role riparian vegetation plays in it.
Work with the Economics and Commercial Uses Subcommittee to produce a brochure that summarizes the agencies, laws, and permitting processes that affect any projects or work in the streambed, streambanks, wetlands, or floodplain.
ISSUE: LOCAL WATER COORDINATION ORGANIZATION
GOAL: Investigate and evaluate the potential for a local existing organization or a coalition of agency and community representatives to consider water supply, water use, water management, and water planning activities for the Verde Valley as a region and to coordinate activities with other local, state, federal and tribal agencies, and various water use groups.
STRATEGY: Develop criteria on what an appropriate local organization could be by considering accountability, representation of local interests (agencies, landowners, business, environment), technical assistance, and funding mechanisms.
The County Board of Supervisors and/or Natural Resource Conservation Districts should study and propose an appropriate regional/local water coordination organization.
STRATEGY: Develop a description of tasks the organization could address, such as to act as a central repository for local water resources information; act as a local forum for decision-making regarding water resource uses on an ongoing basis; and have the ability to consider the competing uses and balances among the various water users in the region, including instream uses of the Verde River.
Evaluate and choose an appropriate form or combination of forms of organizational structure to become the local water coordination organization through public consensus. Possible structures might include:
(1) Verde Natural Resources Conservation District (VNRCD): Could empower the existing VNRCD to act as the local information and decision- making body. The VNRCD already has the authority under the Arizona Revised Statutes to enter into agreements, accept funding, work with private landowners, etc. Considerations: community interest in electing VNRCD board members would have to be generated; funding, expertise, authority to make a "water plan" for the region; authority to interact with towns, etc.
(2) New Active Management Area: Could consider creating a new AMA under the state Groundwater Management Act (GMA) or borrowing certain provisions from the GMA . The Act already provides authority to AMA's to develop a water management plan, regulate groundwater pumping, and augment non-water supplies. Considerations: There are regulations to comply with; it may be difficult to get local support for creating a new AMA; and the Verde Valley may not qualify for AMA status because of lack of groundwater overdraft problem.
(3) Special Districts (Flood Control District or Water Conservancy District): Could use existing authority of county flood control districts to develop a regional water plan. Flood Control Districts do not have to be based on counties, and they have the authority to tax and would have a funding source.
(4) Irrigation District: Investigate level of authority possible, taxing authority, and management authority under Arizona State enabling legislation. Consider possible conflicts with other water uses and organizations.
(5) Verde Valley Water Users Association (VVWUA): Could broaden the scope of this private organization. The Verde Valley Water Users' Association's primary and only focus has been to represent the interests of Verde Valley water users in the adjudication. Perhaps this organization could take on other issues as well. Its private nature is probably attractive to various local interests but may also present limitations regarding agreements with state agencies, authority, or funding. Currently, all work on VVWUA is voluntary and unpaid.
(6) Arizona State Water Resources Plan: Utilize assistance from Arizona Department of Water Resources to create a regional water plan designed to specifically meet the Verde Valley's unique needs.
Link Verde Valley Town Governing Entities and Planning and Zoning Commissions for Cooperative Planning: Each town has authority for zoning decisions, wastewater treatment, taxes, etc. The Town of Camp Verde is embarking on developing a "water plan." If each town were to do a "water plan," then they could be synthesized to form a regional "water plan." Need to investigate this option more and contact the Arizona League of Cities and Towns in Phoenix for information on authorities of towns.
MAJOR GOALS OF THE FIVE SUBCOMMITTEES
Economics & Commercial Uses
Utilize the river corridor and its cultural and natural resource values to promote tourism and as a quality of life incentive to attract tourists, new businesses and new residents.
Make provisions for the sand and gravel industry to function in the Verde Valley while protecting the river corridor values.
Promote the retention of agricultural uses and open lands along the Verde River Corridor while protecting corridor values and resources.
Maintain and/or increase open space along the Verde River Corridor while accommodating for planned growth.
Land Conservation
Protect, enhance and restore the riparian ecosystems along the Verde River Corridor.
Preserve and protect the prehistoric, historic, and archaeological resources of the Verde River Corridor.
Reduce the negative impacts of flooding and erosion.
Protect, maintain and enhance the scenic qualities that the Verde River and its riparian corridor contribute to the area.
Develop a greater recognition, understanding, appreciation, respect, and responsibility toward the Verde River and its resources.
Promote public awareness of the Verde as a special natural resource and encourage public support for proper use of the river and its contiguous lands.
Protect the environmentally sensitive areas of the Verde River Basin that are in need of protective management.
Support public involvement in ongoing land use planning efforts and promote incorporation of considerations for the human and environmental needs of the Verde Valley.
Private Property
Ensure that the rights of private property owners are a priority issue in all river- related management decisions.
Maximize private property owner participation in discussing and resolving corridor conflicts.
Increase public awareness of private property rights and wishes.
Identify benefits and/or liabilities to property owners of providing access to the Verde River Corridor.
Implement a plan to inform private property owners of rights, responsibilities, and opportunities.
Identify what entity(s) have management and enforcement responsibilities over corridor lands and resources.
Encourage private landowners to allow public access to the river corridor across their property while protecting their rights and wishes.
Formalize the coordinating function of groups like the VRCP to ensure landowner and interagency communication and consistency on plans and decisions for the river corridor.
Recreation
Ensure adequate public access to the Verde River Corridor by identifying and planning for needed access points.
Develop a formal assessment of existing recreational activities along the Verde River Corridor and identify areas of conflict.
Develop a plan for distribution of information regarding recreational opportunities along the Verde River Corridor.
Promote improved river user behavior and cooperation by increasing public and river user behavior education, awareness, and involvement.
Minimize conflicts between recreational uses and with private property owners.
Minimize environmental impacts to the river corridor when planning and developing recreation access sites and facilities.
Water
Protect, and potentially even enhance or restore, the instream flows in the river, and the habitats, recreation, and other uses that depend on those flows.
Improve the water quality where problems exist and to prevent further pollution of the waters of the Verde River.
Investigate and evaluate the potential for a local existing organization or a coalition of agency and community representatives to consider water supply, water use, water management, and water planning activities for the Verde Valley as a region and to coordinate activities with other local, state, federal, and tribal agencies, and various water use groups.