The Black Arroyo Wildlife Park not only provides flood control, but serves as a respite and educational venue for residents, students, workers and other visitors. This 72-acre parcel stretches from the corner of Unser and Southern to Unser and Westside in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. It’s owned by the Southern Sandoval County Arroyo and Flood Control Authority (SSCAFCA).

Sites Southwest’s master plan for this park and arroyo demonstrates how drainage facilities can work in more naturalistic ways. The design includes trails, trail heads, parking areas, three pedestrian bridges, interpretive signage, shade structures, wildlife drinkers supplied with harvested water and furniture for users. Grading appropriate for water harvesting and sediment control was part of the team’s trail and revegetation plan.

Sites Southwest environmental services entailed conducting a site assessment, natural and cultural resources survey and preparation of a categorical exclusion.