Arizona AFI is Hosting a Beaver Survey at the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area!
Why You Should Want to Attend:
The Armed Forces Initiative is Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ program focused on creating conservationists within the military community. Arizona AFI is teaming up with the Watershed Management Group (WMG) and the River Run Network for a citizen science event focused on the restoration and monitoring of beaver populations in southern Arizona.
Beavers, once extirpated from the region, were successfully reintroduced to the San Pedro River in 1999 and 2000, with additional reintroductions in the years following. These keystone species are essential to flood control, habitat creation, and the overall health of the riparian ecosystem. By participating, you’ll help collect valuable data that supports continued habitat restoration and species management — and enjoy a day in one of Arizona’s most iconic riparian landscapes.
Even better, service members can earn volunteer hours for performance reviews, awards, or professional recognition.
What It Is:
This event is part of an annual beaver population survey coordinated by the Watershed Management Group, a Tucson-based water conservation nonprofit. Participants will join small teams to hike along designated stretches of the San Pedro River, looking for evidence of beaver activity such as dams, lodges, chew marks, and tracks.
Before the event, participants must complete a volunteer form with WMG at this link:
Register with the Watershed Management Group
When registering, select that you’d like to volunteer with BHA/AFI, and indicate your preferred hiking distance. Some routes may be several miles long, while others are shorter and easier.
Attendees can expect to:
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Hike sections of the San Pedro River, sometimes through shallow water or mud
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Record beaver sightings and other wildlife observations
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Collect ecological data that supports public-land restoration
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Learn about riparian ecology and wildlife management from experts
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Enjoy a full day outdoors in one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Southwest
Bring weather-appropriate hiking clothes, headgear, and waterproof boots. Binoculars are optional but useful for observing wildlife. Don’t forget your lunch, water, and sense of adventure!
When Is It:
Saturday, November 15th, 2025
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Arizona Time)
Where Is It:
San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area
9800 AZ-90
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
Learn More About the Survey Event →
Who Can Attend:
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Members of the military community — Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard, Veterans, and Gold Star Families
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BHA members and conservation-minded volunteers
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Anyone passionate about wildlife, habitat restoration, and supporting veterans in conservation
You do not need to be a BHA member to attend (but we’d love to have you join!).
Additional Details:
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Expect to hike in uneven, possibly muddy terrain — dress accordingly
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Bring your own lunch, water, and sun protection
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You’ll receive further instructions and meet-up details after registering through WMG
Questions?
Contact Leland Hart, Arizona AFI Liaison, azafi@backcountryhunters.org