Canyon Creek | Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy

This perennial stream begins along the Mogollon Rim and flows south to its confluence with the Salt River. Canyon Creek provides important riparian habitat for both terrestrial and aquatic species. The area consists of primarily undeveloped portions of xeric-habitat with a small band of riparian vegetation along the stream channel. Canyon Creek has an AZGFD fish hatchery as well as a private ranch operation in the upper section of the creek. There is approximately 4 miles of perennial water before reaching White Mountain Apache tribal land boundary, where the majority of the creek flows until it reaches its confluence with the Salt River.

Conservation Goals

Improve important riparian habitat for SGCN species through augmenting streamflow and habitat restoration.
Restore habitats to their proper functioning conditions post wildfire and flood events.
Increase forest and grassland resilience and sustainability and reduce hazards associated with undesirable fire effects.

Map

Primary Threats

1. Agriculture

1.3: Livestock farming and ranching

3. Climate Change and Severe Weather

3.1: Habitat shifting and alteration

3.2: Droughts

3.3: Temperature extremes

3.4: Storms and flooding

7. Human Intrusions and Disturbance

7.1: Recreational activities

9. Natural System Modifications

9.2: Dams and water management

Potential Conservation Actions

2. Land and Water Management

2.1: Site/area management

Increase forest and grassland resilience and reduce hazards associated with undesirable fire effects.

2.3: Habitat and natural process restoration

Restore natural streamflow where previously altered.
Reintroduce prescribed burns to increase habitat resiliency in these unique and diverse habitats.
Continue to implement riparian and aquatic restoration to restore overall stream health.