Water Wise and Energy Smart Program Ft. Huachuca, Arizona

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CONTACT WWES 538-7283
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Welcome to Fort Huachuca!
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Although most people think of Saguaro cactus and
the Sonoran Desert when they think of Arizona,
Fort Huachuca is located in the high desert at
nearly 5000 ft in elevation.
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Ft. Huachuca has a moderate climate with
approximately 15 inches of rainfall each year.
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The Huachuca Mountains rise to over 9000 ft.
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There is water here, in the mountain canyons.
Garden Canyon and Huachuca Canyon have streams
that flow year-round.
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Fall colors in the mountain canyons can be
beautiful.
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The fort gets some snowfall each winter, but not
enough to shovel or close highways.
Snowpack in the high mountains slowly melts into
the ground, adding to the groundwater.
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May and June are hot and dry.
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July brings our rainy season, the monsoons,
when we get 80 of our rainfall.
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Normally quiet streams can flood quickly.
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Do not try to drive through flooded water
crossings.
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Our mountains are also home to an assortment of
wildlife.
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Black bears are usually found in the higher
mountains but can descend looking for food.
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Though rarely seen, mountain lions are found on
Fort Huachuca. Use caution when jogging in the
mountains or hiking with dogs and small children.
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Several species of rattlesnakes are found here.
Most are easily avoided.
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Also be aware of africanized bees found in this
area. Avoid bee hives.
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Some of our wildlife is unique, like the coati, a
relative of the raccoon.
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Many spectacular species of birds are found here.
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Including wild turkey.
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And the symbol of the southwest, the Roadrunner.
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Nearby is the San Pedro Riparian National
Conservation Area
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This federally protected area includes the finest
remaining desert river in the southwest.
Vermilion Flycatcher
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Many rare species, including some listed on the
Endangered Species list are found in the
mountains and along the river.
Mexican Spotted Owl
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Agave
Ramsey Canyon Leopard Frog
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Lesser Long-nosed Bat
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San Pedro Watershed Challenges

• Sierra Vista Area- 65 population increase since
  1980 (currently 60,000)?
• U.S. Army, Fort Huachuca- largest employer in
  Cochise County
• San Pedro River-is an important, federally
  protected resource.

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To comply with the Endangered Species Act, water
conservation is required on Ft. Huachuca to
reduce the groundwater deficit.
Goal Balanced Water Budget by 2011
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The Fort has made great progress, reducing water
use by more than 60.
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But there is more work to be done.
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Our water comes from wells tapping the aquifer
that feeds the San Pedro River.
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It is stored in a 3 million gallon tank near
Barnes Field House.
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To further protect the river, the purchase of
agricultural lands and conservation easements has
reduced water use in the watershed.
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Construction of catchment basins and water
retention features has increased recharge of the
aquifer.
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The Mountain View Golf Course, since 1969, has
used effluent--treated sewage water that not only
saves our underground freshwater supply, but
helps to recharge the aquifer.
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Sentinel Field behind Eiffler Gym has artificial
turf that not only does not need to be watered,
but has a drainage system under the turf that
directs water to a catchment area to recharge the
aquifer.
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The latest in water-saving fixtures have been
installed.
Waterless urinals have saved over 25 million
gallons of water.
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In the housing areas, front yards have desert
landscaping with limited plantings.
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Backyards have Bermuda grass lawns.
Brown and dormant in the winter, green in the
summer.
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Landscaping with native, drought-tolerant plants
reduces the need for supplemental watering.
Chaparral Sage
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Desert landscaping does not mean using cactus. In
fact, cactus are not recommended for residential
use.
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Mulching can maximize the effectiveness of
watering.
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Container gardening is a great way to minimize
water use and provide color (or vegetables).
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Careful watering of trees can be the difference
between a sick tree and a healthy one.
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Water around the drip line where the roots are,
not at the trunk.
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Follow the post guidelines on watering for
landscape. Do not allow water to run down the
gutters.
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What you can do at home to save water
Full loads in washing machines
Use water savings settings
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Conserve water in the kitchen and bathroom. Dont
let the water run.
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Washing the car can use.
150 Gallons At home
15 Gallons at Car Wash
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Both inside and outside, at home and at work,
check for leaks and repair them right away.
To report a leak, call 533-3151
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The Army is also committed to saving energy.
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Solar panels provide power and heat water around
the fort.
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Wind power is another source of electricity being
used on Fort Huachuca.
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In post housing, solar tubes bring the light of
the sun inside.
Ceiling fans can reduce the need for air
conditioning.
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Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
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What we do at home and work on Post can make a
significant difference in conserving water and
energy, protecting the San Pedro River, and
making sure that Fort Huachuca continues to
achieve its mission responsibilities.
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The University of Arizona Cochise
County Cooperative Extension Office contracted
through the Directorate of Public Works on Ft.
Huachuca
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CONTACT WWES 538-7283