About Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center

The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area stretches five miles along the Salt River just south of downtown Phoenix, transforming a former dump site into a thriving riparian corridor filled with wetlands, mesquite bosque, cottonwood–willow forest, and accessible trails. More than 200 bird species have been recorded here, making it one of the city’s most important urban wildlife refuges. 

The Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center serves as the gateway to this restored landscape, connecting visitors to nature through guided bird walks, community science, youth programs, and hands-on conservation activities. These experiences highlight the importance of healthy riparian habitats in the desert Southwest. 

Accessible to all, the restored river corridor demonstrates the power of community partnerships and hands-on stewardship. By inspiring people to explore and care for this urban oasis, the center helps safeguard essential habitat for birds today and into the future.