Experts at ASU and the Salt River Project utility company are exploring the use of forest thinning to increase water supplies, as well as to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect critical infrastructure. The research is being conducted by the Center for Hydrologic Innovations, directed by Enrique Vivoni, a professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, part of the Fulton Schools. The endeavor is part of the Arizona Water Innovation Initiative,  a statewide project led by the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory in collaboration with the Fulton Schools. Vivoni says the project is critical to assuring both future forest health and water resilience.

See also: SRP, ASU collaboration gauges benefits of forest thinning, KJZZ News (NPR) News, May 21

SRP-ASU Collaboration Gauges Benefits of Forest Restoration, Energy Central, May 22

SRP and Arizona State University Gauges Benefits of Forest Restoration, T&DWorld, May 23

SRP Collaborates with University on Forest Restoration Project, American Public Power Association, May 29

ASU, SRP investigating if forest thinning could increase water supplies, ABC 15 Arizona, June 5