Santa Cruz River Named 4th Most Endangered

American Rivers has named the Santa Cruz River as the 4th most endangered in the United States on their 2024 list of most endangered rivers.

Threat: Water Scarcity

The Santa Cruz River was once a desert oasis that was dried up and polluted for decades – and only recently is it coming back to life. However, climate change and water scarcity threaten progress to ensure clean, flowing water in the river. What’s more, rollbacks to clean water protections at the federal level could add new challenges to the health of the watershed longer term. To ensure this river remains a community treasure, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service should establish an Urban National Wildlife Refuge. (American Rivers)

American Rivers Endangered Rivers