We love the Verde River!
Gentle flowing water on a hot day, habitat for wildlife, beautiful trees lining riverbanks that cast lush shadows and create shade… In our arid climate, healthy river flows are vital! Rivers and streams are the heart of our communities and wildlife. Without gentle flowing water that brings life to the land, life in the Verde Valley would not be possible. Many of us ask the question, “What can I do to help the river?” River Friendly Living offers a guide to help us answer that very question!
River Friendly Living is a community-developed program that inspires and celebrates voluntary river conservation at homes and businesses. You can help keep water flowing through our communities by certifying your home, business, farm, or development as River Friendly. Participation is easy, you can become certified as River Friendly by incorporating program elements that support Sustainable Water Supply, Clean Water, Healthy Habitat, and Connected Communities!
Homes: As a homeowner, you can do a lot to support healthy waterways. Fixing leaks, planting low water use plants, and using rainwater as a resource all support a healthy river system. By completing a self assessment, you can certify your home, and learn additional ways to live River Friendly! Start the process today by signing up on our interest form: https://verderiver.org/river-friendly-living/
Businesses: We depend on River Friendly Businesses to support the Verde River by using water responsibly, controlling chemicals and waste, volunteering, and donating to support river conservation. Participating businesses have put nearly $100,000 back into our communities through tax-deductible donations! Start the process today by signing up on our interest form: https://verderiver.org/river-friendly-living/
Farms: Farms are at the heart of our communities, and they often depend on the water running through our rivers and streams. A River Friendly Farm is committed to the health of our waterways. River Friendly Farms are highly efficient with water, protect waterways from chemicals, preserve important habitat, and educate community members about the benefits of River Friendly Living. Start the process of certifying your farm today by signing up on our interest form: https://verderiver.org/river-friendly-living/
Developments (New Builds): Many rural communities across Arizona are experiencing growth and development at unprecedented speeds. Our River Friendly Development certification features a guide to minimize impact to our waterways alongside this rapid development. This guide is a community-developed solution for addressing the potential threats of new developments in rural areas, featuring robust and comprehensive criteria that promote responsible water use, protect habitat, and improve water quality. Start the process today by signing up on our interest form: https://verderiver.org/river-friendly-living/
