Paulden/Big Chino Recharge and Flood Mitigation Project

River flows and groundwater levels are declining throughout Arizona due to many years of drought conditions. Future predictions indicate additional declines over time. The Yavapai County Flood Control District in conjunction with The Nature Conservancy have developed conceptual alternatives to provide multi-facet improvements in the Paulden, Arizona area. These improvements would provide enhanced groundwater recharge, contributions to year-round base flow in the Verde River, and flood mitigation measures in the Paulden area.

Conceptual alternatives have been developed, which include consideration of geologic conditions favorable to recharge, locations of washes to supply water, and flood prone areas. Alternatives range from solving all flooding problems to localized solutions.

Favorable alternatives generally include retaining floodwaters and providing more time for flood waters to percolate into the ground in the sandy wash bottoms. Basins to retain water and in-channel recharge areas along the Big Chino Wash are beneficial to the project goals.

The County is currently evaluating alternatives and seeking funding sources to construct improvements. Final improvements and locations have not been determined, but favorable areas that meet project goals have been identified. Private properties may provide an important partnership for improvements.

If landowners are willing to engage, they would need to sign an agreement with Yavapai County Flood Control District that would allow for construction and maintenance. This agreement would not impact the water rights or private wells on the lands. Final project design would be developed with partnering landowners prior to construction to ensure it meets landowner needs while accomplishing project objectives.

If you would like additional information on the project or have questions, please contact Tony Angueira or Lynn Whitman at 928-771-3197 or email web.flood.control@yavapaiaz.gov

As examples of similar solutions, basins that provide flood mitigation and benefits to aquifers have been constructed in other locations in Arizona. Two examples of projects are shown below. Shallow areas for water to collect and seep into the ground are provided adjacent to the main river channel or in the main channel.