The moving story of the rebirth of a biologically critical river
in the Southwest is recounted in A River Reborn: The Restoration of
Fossil Creek. The one-hour documentary describes the natural and human
history of Fossil Creek, examines the ecological effects of a dam and
hydroelectric facilities there, and chronicles the 15-year process
that led to decommissioning. Produced by Emmy Award-winning producer
Paul Bockhorst. Narrated by Ted Danson.
Situated in the high desert of Arizona, Fossil Creek has nurtured
a rich diversity of life for millennia. In 1908, however, the water
was diverted to generate electricity. Now, in a historic turnaround,
the hydroelectric facilities are being decommissioned and the river
returned to its natural state.
A River Reborn presents a powerful case study in environmental restoration.
It highlights a broad reassessment of rivers and dams globally, as
well as the growing effort to balance fulfillment of human needs
with protection of the natural systems that support human life. This
includes the safeguarding of precious water resources and the protection
of threatened and endangered species. As a focal point for this reassessment,
Fossil Creek reveals both challenges and opportunities associated
with riparian restoration.
A remarkable feature of the story is that the decision to decommission
was reached without litigation. Environmental organizations, state
and federal agencies, and Arizona Public Service reached a comprehensive
agreement through constructive engagement. The result is a notable “win-win” settlement.
Thus Fossil Creek provides a rare and encouraging example of the
cooperative resolution of environmental disputes.
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