Conserve to Enhance (C2E) provides funding for riparian restoration initiatives in the Tucson Basin of the Santa Cruz Watershed.

Tucson Conserve to Enhance was created in 2011 to address a common desire to ensure that our natural desert environment and riparian areas are sustained and valued as the community grows. Starting in 2024, the funding and riparian restoration initiatives are managed by an advisory board, made up of partners in the SCWC. This is a fitting evolution of the program, since Tucson C2E was initiated by many of the partners who are part of SCWC.  

Conservation-minded customers of Tucson Water and Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation can donate on their paper water bill. Or donate directly (see below) if you prefer an automated or electronic method. Most households who implement basic water conservation measures save about $5 a month so by donating that amount you can translate those savings into riparian benefits. 

The SCWC advisory board is focusing on river restoration initiatives in shallow groundwater areas and areas with seasonal and perennial flows, including areas supported by recycled water flows. SCWC events and service projects help to restore the natural heritage of river ecosystems by fostering collaboration among water managers and restoration groups, monitoring riparian habitats, removing invasive plants in rivers, and using GSI to restore flood banks. By evaluating equitable access to rivers and establishing river gateways, we can increase community connections and build the next generation of stewards.

Ways to make tax deductible donations:

1. Paypal for online or regularly scheduled donations: Donate with PayPal Giving Fund

2. Paper versions of the Tucson Water and Pima County Wastewater utility bills, using the "Open Space/Riparian" line. 

3. Make checks payable to Conserve2Enhance and mail to:
   Tucson Conserve 2 Enhance
   c/o PAG/ CPBS
   1 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 401
   Tucson AZ 85701

C2E is an affiliate organization of the nonprofit Center for Pima Basin Sustainability (CPBS) administered by Pima Association of Governments (PAG). Eight percent of donations may be used for administrative purposes.