The Verde River Water is life.Nowhere is this more evident than in a dry land such as Arizona, and the Verde Valley is no exception. An aerial view will show a land of rocks and dirt bisected by the cool green ribbon of the Verde River swathed in trees, marshes and grasslands.
Located about 20 miles north of Prescott near Paulden, Arizona is the headwaters of the Verde River in the Big Chino Basin.This is not a lake, but a network of springs that drain through sand and rock fissures into an underground aquifer.Water seeping from this aquifer becomes the Verde River near Perkinsville, the turnaround point for the Verde Canyon Railroad.
Though the Big Chino has been identified as the primary source, major input of water is delivered from perennial streams on the Mogollon Rim, which can be seen looming above the northeastern side of the Verde Valley.The Verde River drains more than 6600 square miles of Arizona’s Mogollon Rim, Colorado Plateau, and Central Highlands region.
Many springs and creeks also contribute to the flow of the Verde River.The confluence with Sycamore Creek is near the Verde Canyon Railroad route.Further downstream, Oak Creek, Beaver Creek, Clear Creek and Fossil Creek join the Verde River on its southward journey where it eventually empties into the Salt River near Phoenix.From the headwaters to the Salt River, the Verde River meanders 195 miles through central Arizona.
At this time, the Verde River is one of the last free flowing river in Arizona. Arizona’s rare riparian ecosystems make up only 5% of the state, and a majority of this ever dwindling habitat is located along the banks of the Verde River.
Water has always attracted people, now and in ancient times.At least five groups of prehistoric peoples made their home on or near the Verde River.Early settlers looking for precious minerals camped along the river, eventually finding their fortune in growing crops sustained by the life giving water.
In addition to sustenance, the Verde River abounds with recreational activities.River runners find this an exhilarating challenge, especially when snow melts in the high country creating a fierce spring run off, a torrent that often forces this usually placid river out of its banks.Sport fishermen angle for the Rainbow Trout stocked by the Arizona Fish and Game Department in winter months.Channel catfish, small- and largemouth bass, yellow bullhead, black crappie, green sunfish and carp can be caught year round.The Verde River is a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers and photographers.Children of all ages enjoy a cooling splash in the clear green water.
Constantly the subject of heated battles, water in Arizona is threatened by a burgeoning human population.The Verde River is no different.Housing development in the headwaters area leads to diminished flow, and may spell the end of this precious resource.Along with many dedicated citizen groups, the Verde Canyon Railroad is committed to protecting this natural wonder by educating the traveling public.
Thanks to the Verde River Almanac compiled by the Verde Watershed Association for facts used in this article, and to Diane Joens who graciously granted permission.
