Yuma, Ariz. — The Bureau of Reclamation will host a public meeting from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, to discuss habitat improvements to the Laguna Division Conservation Area. The meeting will be held at the Old Council Chambers at Yuma Crossing State Historic Park, 180 1st St., Yuma.

The proposed work is being done under the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program. The project’s design includes removal of non-native plant species, such as salt cedar, and replacing them with water channels, native trees (cottonwood and willow), and marsh habitat. The project proposes to modify approximately 1,200 acres. Work is scheduled to start in 2010 and to be completed by 2015.

The meeting will include informal presentations by the Bureau of Reclamation, the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and other parties involved with the restoration/enhancement project. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with agency representatives after the presentations.

“We’re very supportive of this project,” said Thomas Bommarito, habitat specialist in the Game and Fish Yuma region. “It will provide habitat for several species of conservation concern such as the federally endangered Yuma clapper rail and game species such as waterfowl. The project also has the potential to allow more water to be delivered to Mittry Lake, enhancing fishing opportunities.”

Additional background information about the Laguna Division Conservation Area can be found at: http://www.lcrmscp.gov/worktasks/conservationareas/E27/index.html.