Arizona’s Upper Verde River and Sycamore Creek Gain Enhanced Environmental Safeguards
In a significant move to bolster environmental conservation, Arizona’s Governor’s Regulatory Review Council has granted new protective status to sections of the Upper Verde River and Sycamore Creek. This decision marks a pivotal step in preserving the natural integrity of these vital water bodies.
The council’s recent endorsement confers Outstanding Arizona Waters (OAW) status on approximately 35.93 miles of the Upper Verde River, stretching from its confluence with Granite Creek to Sycamore Creek. In tandem, 11.71 miles of Sycamore Creek, from Cedar Creek to where it meets the Verde, will also benefit from these heightened protections.
Achieving OAW status bestows tier 3 “antidegradation protection” on these waterways, representing the pinnacle of water quality defense in the state. Karen Peters, Director of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, underscores the importance of this action: “This approval represents a major victory for science-based water stewardship. By establishing Tier 3 protections for these critical stretches of the Upper Verde River and Sycamore Creek, we are ensuring that these pristine waters remain clean, healthy, and resilient.”
The protective measures are designed to prevent water degradation and safeguard essential wildlife habitats, support threatened species, and enhance recreational opportunities. The Sierra Club, which initially proposed the protective designation in 2023, has expressed strong support for the council’s decision.
Jennifer Martin-McLeod, Water Sentinels Program Manager for the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter, stated, “Designation of the Upper Verde River as an Outstanding Arizona Water will do a lot for the river and the communities that depend on it. This designation provides an important layer of protection for the water quality of the river. We appreciate the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality for recognizing the importance of the Upper Verde by establishing this special designation.”
With the council’s endorsement, the proposal now advances to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for final approval. If sanctioned, the Upper Verde River and Sycamore Creek will join the ranks of 22 other Outstanding Arizona Waters, increasing the total to 24.
In related environmental advocacy, groups have contested the legality of the Trump administration’s reductions to Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments.
—
Read More Arizona News
