WATER RESOURCE ADMINISTRATION OF LOWER CIENEGA CREEK NEAR TUCSON

Abstract

The goal of this thesis is to propose water resource management recommenda tions which can contribute to the long-term existence of the lower Cienega Creek riparian area. The objectives are to develop an understanding of the physical, legal, and institutional settings, and to show how those factors have contributed to its current condition. Recommendations are based on a long-term management goal to maintain the riparian area. Potential threats and impacts which would cause severe damage to the area are described. The research includes a combination of a literature search, a water resource and water rights data and records review and analysis, and personal interviews and historical research. The thesis concludes that the Cienega Creek watershed is relatively undeveloped with regard to water consumption. The current condition of the riparian area can be attributed principally to entrenchment and climate change and variation. However, groundwater use looms as a threat to the riparian area. Water management decisions that allow unregulated groundwater development and a high zoning density standard could combine to deplete water resources of the lower Cienega Creek riparian area.