Marble Canyon and Vermilion Cliffs | Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy

This COA is also an Important Bird Area (IBA) and acts as a vital corridor where the Colorado River connects Glen Canyon Dam to the north with the mouth of the Grand Canyon to the south. This COA is the location of a reintroduced population of California condors, providing important foraging and roosting habitats for the species. Because of its stunning landscapes and accessible recreational areas, Marble Canyon and Vermilion Cliffs are very popular with recreationists, including hikers, campers, and boaters.

Conservation Goals

Improve conservation efforts for California condors, including recreation management to minimize disturbance and reduction of lead poisoning.
Control invasive species, including salt cedar, common reed, Ravenna grass, and Russian olive, that are degrading riparian habitats.

Map

Primary Threats

1. Agriculture

1.3: Livestock farming and ranching

7. Human Intrusions and Disturbance

7.1: Recreational activities

8. Invasive and Other Problematic Species

8.1: Invasive non-native species

9. Natural System Modifications

9.2: Dams and water management

Potential Conservation Actions

2. Land and Water Management

2.1: Site/area management

Improve fencing and other forms of management to control for trespass livestock that can damage sensitive habitats, especially springs.

2.2: Invasive/problematic species control

Develop management actions to reduce invasive species such as tamarisk, common reed, Ravenna grass, and Russian olive which can severely degrade native habitats along the Colorado River.