Over the past five years, Friends of the Verde River (FVR) has led efforts to remove invasive plant species along Fossil Creek, a 17-mile stretch revived after being dewatered for power generation for nearly 100 years. Following the creek’s designation as Wild and Scenic in 2009, its unique riparian forests have healed, supporting wildlife and local communities. Invasive species like tamarisk and giant reed threaten these ecosystems. FVR conducted an inventory and spent 30 weeks removing invasive plants from Fossil Creek, starting at Fossil Springs and working downstream to the Verde River confluence. This ongoing initiative aims to restore and sustain the creek’s health, with continued monitoring and maintenance across Fossil Creek and the Verde Watershed.