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<br />002023 <br /> <br />Although maintained by independent sources of water (artesian springs at the edge of the <br />Gran Desierto de Altar) the Pozos del Doctor (Doctor wetlands) also are ecologically critical areas in <br />the Delta. Zones 6 and 7 are within the Biosphere Reserve of the Upper Gulf and Colorado River <br />Delta (a protected area with international recognition).8 In fact, a good portion of Zones 6 and 7 are <br />within the Core Zone -- the area provided with the highest protection from the Mexican federal <br />govermnent. <br /> <br />Environmental water requirements for sustammg the remnant riparian and wetland <br />ecosystems of the Delta appear to be surprisingly modest. A group of researchers from the <br />Environmental Research Lab at the University of Arizona, the Center for Conservation and Use of <br />Natural Resources (CECARENA) at the Monterrey Tec University in Guaymas, the Sonoran <br />Institute, Pronatura Sonora, and Environmental Defense have provided estimates of Delta water <br />requirements. For the river corridor below Morelos Dam and upstream from the San Felipito <br />Bridge, they suggested that an annual flow of as little as 32,000 acre-feet per year could suffice. <br />They further suggested that such an annual water supply be supplemented by pulse releases of flood <br />flows once every four. to five years. Those researchers believe that such a flow regime could have <br />significant benefits in maintaining and restoring that area. <br /> <br />Zone 5, containing, much of the Cucapa Complex, offers the potential for wetland <br />improvement, increasing the number of small ponds and the variety of vegetation. Mesquite forests <br />also could be reestablished, offering opportunities for quail and dove hunting. Further, <br />improvements to habitat will enhance sustainable ecotourism opportunities for the Cucapa. With <br />further mUlling and support, the Cucapa could expand their ability to serve as guides for bird <br />watching and as outfitters for hunting and fishing. Wetland enhancement will improve fishing and <br />hunting for both Mexican and US residents. <br /> <br />! <br />t <br />! <br />t <br /> <br />8 <br />