Sweetwater Wetlands
Sweetwater Wetlands will be closed to the public for an annual controlled burn on October 1st, 2024, and November 13th, 2024, with alternate dates set for October 3rd and November 19th, respectively in case of inclement weather. To allow fire risk to settle, the wetlands will be closed for at least two days following each burn.
In partnership with the Tucson Fire Department, this controlled burn is conducted to:
- reduce the presence of mosquitos
- control invasive plant species
- provide valuable training for wildlands firefighters
Contact (520) 791-2666 for more information.
The primary function of the Sweetwater Wetlands is as a water recharge facility. The wetlands also serve as an oasis for wildlife and visitors alike.
The Tucson Audubon Society, a steward of the wetlands, has counted more than 300 species of birds. This rich ecosystem makes the wetlands a perfect outdoor classroom for visitors to study plants, wildlife, and Tucson’s most precious resource.
A New Source for Tucson’s Water
Through the twentieth century, strain on Tucson’s aquifer became clear and the search for other sources of water began. In 1984, Tucson Water became one of the first utilities to adopt reclaimed water to meet the demand for landscape irrigation in parks, schools, and golf courses while reducing dependency on our drinking water supply.
In 1996, the Sweetwater Wetlands was constructed to refine the effluent received from Pima County’s wastewater treatment facility and recharge it into the aquifer. In 2013, Pima County constructed Agua Nueva, a new treatment facility that could deliver Class A water, making the wetlands obsolete. However, it is the rich wildlife and the dedicated community that keeps Sweetwater Wetlands alive today.
Guided Tours
The Tucson Audubon Society offers field trips through the wetlands every Wednesday! Visit their website for details and to register.
Tucson Audubon Society
Facility Rules
Sweetwater Wetlands is operated by Tucson Water as an education center and wildlife refuge in conjunction with the Sweetwater Recharge Facility. Amenities are subject to operational needs. Under normal circumstances, the wetlands will be accessible to the public from dawn to dusk but may close during controlled burns, surveys, maintenance, etc.
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Respect the wildlife. Keep your distance and do not feed animals.
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Respect the habitat. Do not pollute the wetlands with litter, excessive noise, or artificial lighting.
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Respect the ecosystem. Pets and horses are not allowed. Do not release any plants or wildlife. Service animals are welcome, but you are responsible for cleaning after them.
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Respect operations. Yield to service vehicles and areas of the park where maintenance is being done. Please excuse any noise that may arise during maintenance.
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Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Bicycles are permitted but must be walked within the wetlands.
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Swimming and wading are prohibited.
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Alcohol and smoking are prohibited.
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Camping and overnight parking are prohibited.
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In case of emergency, call 911.
Wildlife at the Wetlands Photo Contest
In 2022, photographers submitted more than a hundred entries into five categories: Aquatic/Insects, Birds/Reptiles, Mammals, Heart of the Wetlands, and the Illustrious Bobcats! The sheer volume and talent stunned the judges, but Tucson Water is proud to highlight these precious moments captured by the Sweetwater community’s incredible photographers. Visitors can find these photos and a word from the artists on 15 signs posted around the wetlands.
Location
2511 W Sweetwater Drive, Tucson 85745 View Map
32.2783487,-111.0229411
2511 W Sweetwater Drive ,
Tucson 85745
2511 W Sweetwater Drive ,
Tucson 85745
Sweetwater Wetlands