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Council-Regular Meeting

Meeting Date:

04/07/2026

Submitted For:

Wayne Barnett

From:

Wayne Barnett, Director Parks & Recreation

Strategic Plan Focus Area:
Not Applicable

Information

Subject:

Resolution No. 2026-020: Relating to Parks and Recreation; approving and authorizing the Mayor to sign the "Safe Harbor Agreement Landowner Certificate of Inclusion In The Safe Harbor Agreement" with the Arizona Game and Fish Department for Topminnow and Pupfish at the El Rio Preserve (Wayne Barnett)

Discussion:

This certificate of inclusion agreement is a mechanism to promote the establishment or maintenance of suitable habitat into which topminnow and pupfish populations may be established. Under this agreement, Arizona Game and Fish will introduce topminnow and pupfish populations into the El Rio Preserve. Permanent water sources, free of nonnative predators and within the species' historical ranges, are necessary for the establishment of topminnow and pupfish populations. The aquatic habitats at El Rio Preserve provide a unique opportunity to support these native fish while contributing to regional conservation efforts.

In addition to their conservation value, both species are highly effective at consuming mosquito larvae. Every summer, natural and artificial water sources across southern Arizona can become breeding areas for mosquitoes, which are vectors for disease transmission. Establishing pupfish and topminnow populations at El Rio Preserve will help naturally reduce mosquito larvae and contribute to mosquito mitigation at the site. Establishing these native fish populations enhances the ecological value of the preserve. Native fish contribute to a more balanced aquatic ecosystem, provide educational and interpretive opportunities for visitors, and support broader regional efforts to recover and maintain native Sonoran Desert species. Their presence also highlights El Rio Preserve as an important location for native species conservation and habitat stewardship within the Town of Marana.

Under the certificate of inclusion agreement, Marana Parks and Recreation staff will work with Arizona Game and Fish to ensure that all requirements of the Town of Marana are met and that habitat conditions continue to support the long-term success of these native fish populations. This partnership also supports the Town of Marana’s broader commitment to protecting native species, enhancing wildlife habitat, and promoting sustainable stewardship of the Town’s natural resources.

Staff Recommendation:

Staff recommends approval of this item.

Suggested Motion:

I move to adopt Resolution No. 2026-020, approving and authorizing the Mayor to sign the "Safe Harbor Agreement Landowner Certificate of Inclusion In The Safe Harbor Agreement" with the Arizona Game and Fish Department for Topminnow and Pupfish at the El Rio Preserve.

Attachments

Resolution No. 2026-020

Exhibit A to Resolution

Safe Harbor Agreement for Topminnos and Pupfish in Arizona