Management of Quitobaquito Pond, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Authors: Coleman, Tyler

Year: 2017 (xlix)

Abstract

The Quitobaquito aquatic system lies within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona It is located on the international border with Mexico and is the nearest US water source to the Rio Sonoyta, Sonora, MX Quitobaquito has a rich and complex history which dates back several millennia It has undergone a variety of human modifications over time and is currently home to two endangered species (Sonoyta pupfish and Sonoyta mud turtle) and one candidate species (Quitobaquito tryonia) The National Park Service manages the site for the conservation of protected species but a variety of other issues persist Management is challenging due to multiple, often conflicting, values including cultural resources, historical use, tribal importance, designated wilderness, migratory birds, recreational use, biodiversity, and border impacts Modern alterations have occurred throughout the 20th century These modifications are necessary to maintain a constant water supply and protect the resource from degradation Periodic actions include spring renovation, creation of a spring-fed channel, installation of a diaphragm wall, re-lining of the pond bottom, and removal of a senescent cottonwood tree In addition, constant upkeep is required to reduce encroaching vegetation to maintain water flow and to protect the cultural resources All these actions, collectively, are required to assure that the site functions as its primary use as habitat for critically endangered species