FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project, a $5.4 million joint effort of the Coconino County Flood Control District and the Coconino National Forest, will enter its second and final phase of construction as contractors begin channel stabilization in roughly 4 miles of upper Schultz Creek.
The Schultz Creek Watershed is one of nine watersheds that were badly burned during the 2022 Pipeline Fire. Post-wildfire flooding and erosion through Schultz Creek contributed to repeated flooding and destructive sediment deposition in downstream Flagstaff neighborhoods.
“Through our many trials with post-wildfire flooding, we have learned that on-forest sediment reduction and watershed restoration is a key element to successful mitigation,” said Coconino County Flood Control District Administrator Lucinda Andreani. “After seeing the initial success of Phase 1 this summer, we’re looking forward to building greater resilience in the Schultz Creek Watershed and brining this project to a close.”
Phase 1 of the Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project was completed in July 2023 and included a series of “plug and spread” areas designed to distribute post-wildfire sediment and debris across the valley of lower Schultz Creek before it could impact stormwater infrastructure downstream. Phase 2 will endeavor to stem the source of this sediment by slowing erosion through a series of channel stabilization measures implemented across 4.15 miles of the upper Schultz Creek. These measures include construction of cross-vein weirs, augmentation of existing rock features in the channel, and construction of one rock dams and features in key areas.
The work of Phase 2 will be conducted by Tiffany Construction, who intends to use relatively small footprint machinery to minimize impacts to the Schultz Creek habitat and recreation area. To further reduce impacts to recreational activity in the area, Tiffany Construction is also planning to work during weekdays only. However, weekend work may be pursued if necessary. It’s estimated that Phase 2 should take 8-9 weeks to complete. During that time, recreationists in the Schultz Creek area should exhibit caution and be on the lookout for Tiffany Construction vehicles on Schultz Pass Road.
Funding for the Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project has been provided through the Forest Service via congressionally approved funds. Phase 2 will cost approximately $1.6 million to complete.
Stephen Pelligrini
Senior Communications Manager
County Manager’s Office
219 E. Cherry Ave. Flagstaff, AZ 86001
