The U.S. Department of the Interior announced a $25 million investment to protect two critical areas in Arizona: Yuma East Wetlands and Topock Marsh.
Read the full press release from The Department of the Interior here.
This funding comes from President Biden's Investing in America agenda and aims to improve drought resilience and ecosystems in the Southwest.
The investment will be divided between the two sites. Yuma East Wetlands will receive $5 million for infrastructure upgrades, including a new water delivery system and replacing diesel pumps with electric ones. Topock Marsh, a habitat for endangered species, will get $20 million for improvements like new pumps, pipelines, and water control structures. These upgrades are designed to ensure a sustainable water supply for the marshes and the wildlife that depend on them.
This investment is part of a larger Biden-Harris administration effort to address drought and strengthen water security in the Colorado River Basin. The Basin supplies water for millions of people and is crucial for agriculture and several Tribal Nations. The administration's Investing in America agenda is the biggest investment in climate resilience ever made and provides resources to combat drought and climate change.
Here's why this matters:
- Healthy Rivers, Healthy People: Clean water from these wetlands is crucial for our communities and future generations.
- Protecting Culture: These lands hold cultural significance for our tribes.
- Endangered Species Thrive: The investment helps protect animals.
- Tribal Rights in Action: This project shows the government working with tribes on environmental issues, which is important for sovereignty.
Read the full press release from The Department of the Interior here.
