The model was developed as a tool to better understand the complex and interdependent stream-aquifer system, and to provide guidance for the management of regional water resources. Water management topics relevant to the Santa Cruz AMA include bi-national water issues and the reliability of water supplies. This model was primarily calibrated over the recent effluent-dominated groundwater flow regime (1997-2002) because of the availability of high quality head, flow and pumping data. Thus, some model boundary conditions calibrated over recent periods may not necessarily be representative of pre-effluent conditions.

Mr. Proudfoot, the leading pygmy-owl biologist in the United States, has worked for the last two years to gather and analyze the data that allows us to address issues regarding the genetic viability of ferruginous pygmy-owls in Arizona and to establish a framework for future management efforts. The two major questions addressed are (1) do populations of concern lack genetic variation relative to putative healthy populations, and (2) how unique are geographically distinct populations within a species of special concern?