Colorado River Basin Study Comments--Arizona Department of Game & Fish

Comments on the Colorado River Basin Study prepared by the the Western Water Policy Review Advisory Commission

Evaluation of Right-of-Way Fence Tags to Reduce Animal-Vehicle Collisions

Animal-vehicle collisions (AVC) pose a serious and growing threat to motorists traveling on ADOT roads. Solutions exist to effectively mitigate AVC, such as wildlife crossing structures (overpasses and underpasses), however these solutions can be costly and untimely. Fence tags, a small reflective tag that is attached to the right-of-way fence and deter animals from crossing the fence, provide a potential cost-effective solution to reduce AVC. The research team evaluated the effectiveness of fence tags designed by Swift Creek, LLC, in reducing AVC. Fence tags were installed along both sides of five 2-mile segments of roadway and maintained for three years by replacing missing or damaged fence tags on a quarterly basis. The research team queried ADOT Crash Data to determine changes in AVC prior to the study (July 1, 2015 \u2013 June 30, 2018) and following fence tag installation (July 1, 2018 \u2013 June 30, 2021). Collisions in the areas where fence tags were installed were reduced by an average of 25.4 percent across all sites. This reduction was significant; however, the control sites were also reduced by a similar average of 25.8 percent across all study sites. These findings indicate that (1) the effectiveness of fence tags at reducing AVC were not noticeably different than the control, or (2) external factors that were not considered in the study, such as the effect of nearby road construction, may have influenced the effectiveness of the fence tags. To better understand the results of this study and improve available data for future projects and management decisions, the research team recommends: (1) further examining fence tags as a viable mitigation technique by looking at other aspects that could be taken into account in the study, such as other external factors affecting their use; measuring the effective tag size; implementing a longer observation period before, during, and after the intervention, etc. and (2) implementing data collection forms that capture animal type/species

What Constitutes a Natural Fire Regime? Insight from the Ecology and Distribution of Coniferous Forest Birds in North America

Bird species that specialize in the use of burned forest conditions can provide insight into the prehistoric fire regimes associated with the forest types that they have occupied over evolutionary time. The nature of their adaptations reflects the specific post-fire conditions that occurred prior to the unnatural influence of humans after European settlement. Specifically, the post-fire conditions, nest site locations, and social systems of two species (Bachman\u27s sparrow [Aimophila aestivalis] and red-cockaded woodpecker [Picoides borealis]) suggest that, prehistorically, a frequent, low-severity fire regime characterized the southeastern pine system in which they evolved. In contrast, the patterns of distribution and abundance for several other bird species (black-backed woodpecker [Picoides arcticus], buff-breasted flycatcher [Empidonax fulvifrons], Lewis\u27 woodpecker [Melanerpes lewis], northern hawk owl [Surnia ulula], and Kirtland\u27s warbler [Dendroica kirtlandii]) suggest that severe fire has been an important component of the fire regimes with which they evolved. Patterns of habitat use by the latter species indicate that severe fires are important components not only of higher-elevation and high-latitude conifer forest types, which are known to be dominated by such fires, but also of mid-elevation and even low-elevation conifer forest types that are not normally assumed to have had high-severity fire as an integral part of their natural fire regimes. Because plant and animal adaptations can serve as reliable sources of information about what constitutes a natural fire regime, it might be wise to supplement traditional historical methods with careful consideration of information related to plant and animal adaptations when attempting to restore what are thought to be natural fire regimes

Complex evolutionary history of the Mexican stoneroller Campostoma ornatum Girard, 1856 (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae)

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Studies of the phylogeography of Mexican species are steadily revealing genetic patterns shared by different species, which will help to unravel the complex biogeographic history of the region. <it>Campostoma ornatum </it>is a freshwater fish endemic to montane and semiarid regions in northwest Mexico and southern Arizona. Its wide range of distribution and the previously observed morphological differentiation between populations in different watersheds make this species a useful model to investigate the biogeographic role of the Sierra Madre Occidental and to disentangle the actions of Pliocene tecto-volcanic processes <it>vs </it>Quaternary climatic change. Our phylogeographic study was based on DNA sequences from one mitochondrial gene (<it>cytb</it>, 1110 bp, n = 285) and two nuclear gene regions (S7 and RAG1, 1822 bp in total, n = 56 and 43, respectively) obtained from 18 to 29 localities, in addition to a morphological survey covering the entire distribution area. Such a dataset allowed us to assess whether any of the populations/lineages sampled deserve to be categorised as an evolutionarily significant unit.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>We found two morphologically and genetically well-differentiated groups within <it>C. ornatum</it>. One is located in the northern river drainages (Yaqui, Mayo, Fuerte, Sonora, Casas Grandes, Santa Clara and Conchos) and another one is found in the southern drainages (Nazas, Aguanaval and Piaxtla). The split between these two lineages took place about 3.9 Mya (CI = 2.1-5.9). Within the northern lineage, there was strong and significant inter-basin genetic differentiation and also several secondary dispersal episodes whit gene homogenization between drainages. Interestingly, three divergent mitochondrial lineages were found in sympatry in two northern localities from the Yaqui river basin.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Our results indicate that there was isolation between the northern and southern phylogroups since the Pliocene, which was related to the formation of the ancient Nazas River paleosystem, where the southern group originated. Within groups, a complex reticulate biogeographic history for <it>C. ornatum </it>populations emerges, following the taxon pulse theory and mainly related with Pliocene tecto-volcanic processes. In the northern group, several events of vicariance promoted by river or drainage isolation episodes were found, but within both groups, the phylogeographic patterns suggest the occurrence of several events of river capture and fauna interchange. The Yaqui River supports the most diverse populations of <it>C. ornatum</it>, with several events of dispersal and isolation within the basin. Based on our genetic results, we defined three ESUs within <it>C. ornatum </it>as a first attempt to promote the conservation of the evolutionary processes determining the genetic diversity of this species. They will likely be revealed as a valuable tool for freshwater conservation policies in northwest Mexico, where many environmental problems concerning the use of water have rapidly arisen in recent decades.</p

A summary of the Fish and Wildlife features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan

Report (84 p) by the Arizona Game and Fish Department.Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 24 & 8 bi

A Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan

Report: "Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan", February 1965, page 44"One can interpret these figures as indicating that the contribution of the Rio Grande Basin to gross national product would be about $50 for each acre-foot of water used in agriculture. It would be between$200 and $300 for each acre-foot used as fish and wildlife habitat. It would be between$3,000 and $4,000 for each acre-foot used in industry." Thus, each acre-foot used for fish and wildlife would be about six times as great as that used for agriculture. Using the highest assigned value for each category, as an example, 60,000 acre-feet used for agriculture raised the state's gross product by an estimated$3,060,000. The same 60,000 acre-feet used for fish and wildlife habitat raised the state's gross product an estimated $18,420,000 annually. "In regions where water historically has been scarce, how this diminishing commodity is allocated over the next score years will set limitations upon the nature of the regions' economic growth, and hence, upon the prosperity of the nation as a whole. The San Juan and Rio Grande basins serve as a microcosm for the state of New Mexico and, indeed, for the entire semiarid, rapidly developing Southwest." It would seem that much was learned in this exhaustive study that can be applied advantageously in assigning water under the Central Arizona Project in Arizona.Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 8 bit, 1,910,747 byte

A Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan

Report: "Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan", February 1965, page 7FISH, WILDLIFE AND RECREATION ASPECTS OF THE CENTRAL ARIZONA PROJECT There has been increasing evidence in recent years of the need for more outdoor recreation opportunities to meet the demands of a rapidly expanding population, compounded by continuously increasing hours of leisure time. The Outdoor Recreation Resources Review Commission reports have documented these needs and established the fact that water creates the greatest outdoor recreation incentive because of the great number of water oriented recreational pursuits. This is especially true in the arid Southwest. Eastern visitors and newcomers are welcomed and compete with long-time residents around a body of water of any size for space to relax and rejuvenate from the pressures of a rapidly expanding economy. The use and value of water for recreation is inversely proportional to its availability. For example, a surface acre of water in Arizona is used by more people and appreciated by more recreationists than a surface acre in Wisconsin or Michigan. The Arizona Game and Fish Commission and Department are charged with the administration of fish and wildlife in the state, but concern must be evidenced for the demands of people for multiple-use planning in the development of our remaining water resources. Facilities, such as lakes and wildlife areas, created with revenues from hunters and fishermen are receiving increasing pressures from all outdoor recreationists. Only in the event the demands of people for recreational pursuits are adequately considered will the requirements of our game and fish resources be assured. To know the great numbers of these "people" we need only to drive on our choked highways near any population center, even in the -7-Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 8 bit, 1,894,799 byte

A Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan

Report: "Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan", February 1965, page 54RESOLUTIONS OF THE ARIZONA GAME PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT THE CENTRAL ARIZONA PROJECT WHEREAS, for many years an attempt has been made to institute the Central Arizona Project; and WHEREAS, careful review and study of this overall program has conclusively shown its feasibility and desirability; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Arizona Game Protective Association approve and support the principles of the Central Arizona Project and urge congressional approval at the earliest possible date. RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT THE ASSIGNMENT OF 60,000 ACRE-FEET OF CENTRAL ARIZONA PROJECT WATER FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES WHEREAS, the utilization and development of water resources for recreational purposes constitutes a material contribution to the economic and social well-being of the citizenry; and WHEREAS, in the allocation and development of water resources all uses beneficial to all of the citizenry should be considered and water made available wherever possible; NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Arizona Game Protective Association support a program to set aside 60,000 acre-feet annually from water to be diverted under the Central Arizona Project for recreational purposes throughout the State of Arizona. Adopted September 8, 1963 at the Fortieth Annual Convention Arizona Game Protective Association Yuma, Arizona -54-Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 8 bit, 2,149,808 byte

A Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan

Report: "Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan", February 1965, page viiNational trends toward larger population, industrial growth, and urbanization have been felt strongly in the drier parts of the West. The Southwest has attracted much of the nation's military research and development connected with atomic weapons. With increases in leisure and vacation travel, the West has become one of the nation's important centers of tourism and outdoor recreation. All this is altering the pattern of water demand.... But the big question still remains: what allocation of water uses will best serve the long-run economic development of a locality, state, region, or the whole country?.... Resources for the Future, Inc. Annual Report, 1959Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 8 bit, 1,724,391 byte

A Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan

Report: "Summary of the Fish and Wildlife Features of the Central Arizona Project and the Pacific Southwest Water Plan", February 1965, page 41THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA PRESS ** THE POLITICS OF WATER IN ARIZONA by Dean E. Mann 317 pages, 5 maps, 40 photographs $6.50, cloth The political, social, and economic consequences of a limited water supply in an arid region with a rapidly-growing population are explored in this important new book to be published by The University of Arizona Press on January 22. Dean Mann, a distinguished political scientist now in Venezuela with the Ford Foundation, discusses and analyzes in detail the many facets of the state's critical water problem _ different legal codes for surface and underground water; a multiplicity of state and federal agencies administering water and the related resources of soil, grass, recreation areas, timber, and wildlife; the "mining" of the underground water supply as the result of such factors as increasing population, high farm prices, and fertile land; the pressures exerted by public and private interest groups; lack of over-all planning for resources development; insufficient funds for water and water-related research; and inadequate knowledge about water itself. Because the amount of water is so limited, the various users of water _ farmers (90 percent of all water used in the state is used for agriculture), ranchers, conservationists, industry, recreationists, private and public electric-power groups, and the mushrooming urban areas _ are often in conflict with each other. The varying degrees of political pressure exerted by these users, and the response of the legislature to this pressure is also discussed extensively. With Interior Secretary Udall's Pacific Southwest Regional Water Plan now a subject of national debate, countless readers will find the section of the book devoted to the Central Arizona Project of particular interest. The Project, an integral part of Udall's plan, is explained fully and lucidly, as is the history of the litigation between Arizona and California over the waters of the Colorado River. The main theme of the book is the necessity for over-all planning for water-resources development _ a kind of planning which Arizona has so far been unwilling to undertake. Dr. Mann states, "It may not be that the highly developed civilization of the desert will collapse for lack of water." But he adds that "the state must take steps to maximize the use of the water it has, and to plan for its needs in the context of the changing economy. Public agencies now confer on common problems, but there must be leadership which focuses attention and develops programs which take into account all of the highly complex factors of interrelated resources. Until this minimum for policy-making is attained, it appears that this most precious resource. . . will not be put to maximum use in the support of the varying needs of man in this arid country." The problems which Arizona faces are not, of course, unique to that state; rather they exist in varying degrees all over the world. Publishers' Weekly says, "This summary of what is happening in a state where the water problem is acute can cast light on problems in other areas where water is scarce, for instance, Long Island with its rapidly lowering water table." This is a book which everyone who is concerned about our nation's future water supply must read. Public officials, ranchers, farmers, conservationists, plain citizens, hydrologists, and other water researchers _ all will find much that is of vital interest to them in The Politics of Water in Arizona. * * This is a reproduction of the announcement of the University of Arizona prior to publication of the book in January, 1963.Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 24 bit, 2,367,553 byte