The Tres Rios Environmental Restoration project involves the rehabilitation of nearly 700 acres in and around the Salt River. It is restoring a vital wetland and riparian habitat. The project creates a mutual relationship between the renewed wetlands and the nearby wastewater treatment plant.

The lush and scenic Tres Rios is now home to more than 150 different species of birds and animals. They include muskrats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, and beavers. Many migratory and wintering songbirds flock to the area. They are attracted by beautiful cottonwood groves, willows, mesquites, and other desert shrubs around reed-lined ponds and along the trail. Tres Rios is bringing the Salt River back to the condition it was in during the early 1800s. It is repairing a natural habitat.

The reclaimed water from the wastewater treatment plant is pumped over to the wetlands. Then, the plants and animals take what they need before it is discharged back into the river.

To obtain a free access permit to the Tres Rios Overbank Wetlands, please fill out the form at this website. Only one permit is needed per group, but requestor must be present when visiting the site.

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices/tresrios/permit