The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Working Group

Restoring the Rio Salado

The Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area is a City of Phoenix-led initiative to revitalize a five-mile stretch of the Salt River. Once a dumping ground, the area is now becoming a thriving riparian corridor where Sonoran Desert and river habitats meet, creating rich conditions that support around 200 bird species each year. As a key stopover for migrating birds, Rio Salado provides essential water, food, and shelter during long journeys across the Southwest. 

To restore and protect this unique ecosystem, Audubon spearheaded the formation of the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Working Group in 2024. The group unites the Tiger Mountain Foundation, SEWA International, Protectors of the Salt River, Arizona Sustainability Alliance, the City of Phoenix, Sierra Club, Rio Reimagined, and other corporate volunteer groups. Together, we remove invasive plants, plant native species, and coordinate volunteer cleanups that strengthen the health and diversity of the land. Audubon also helps facilitate this work by conducting multispectral drone mapping and GIS analysis to track the spread of invasive plants, measure restoration impact, and develop work plans that help focus the efforts of each partner organization.

Through this ongoing collaboration, we are revitalizing a critical urban habitat, improving conditions for wildlife, and helping ensure that migratory birds have the resources they need to thrive. As part of this work, Audubon helps build environmental stewardship in an underserved community that has historically lacked access to urban green spaces, outdoor recreation, or meaningful ways to engage in conservation.

Want to help? Join Audubon or one of our partners for a volunteer Restoration Day! Look for upcoming Audubon opportunities or visit our partners’ websites to explore their volunteer event schedules.