11.CPA250008 PZ Staff Report

Maricopa County — Planning & Zoning (2025-11-06)

Extracted text (via pymupdf) 62136 characters

CPA250008
Page 1 of 8
Report to the Planning and Zoning Commission
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department
Case:
CPA250008 – Hassayampa Ranch
Hearing Date:
November 6, 2025
Supervisor District:
4
Applicant:
Wendy Riddell, Berry Riddell LLC
Owners:
Hassayampa Ranch 2040 Acres, LLC / Buckeye Resources LLC/RMB Land
Company LLC

Request:
Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA) to modify the land use
designation in the Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan from Hassayampa Ranch
Development Master Plan (DMP) to Industrial

Site Location:
Generally located at the NEC of Camelback Rd. & Wickenburg Rd.
alignments in the Tonopah area

Site Size:
Approx. 2,077 acres
Density:
N/A
County Island:
No
County Plan:
Hassayampa Ranch Development Master Plan
Municipal Plan:
N/A
Municipal Comments:
City of Buckeye
Support/Opposition:
2 Opposition
Recommendation:
Approve

CPA250008
Page 2 of 8
Project Summary:
1.
The applicant, on behalf of the property owners, is requesting a Major Comprehensive Plan
Amendment (CPA) of the Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan from the Hassayampa Ranch
Development Master Plan (DMP) to Industrial to support development of future light industrial
uses. The site covers of 2,077 acres generally located at the northeast corner of Camelback Rd.
and Wickenburg Rd. alignments in the Tonopah area. If this request is approved by the Board of
Supervisors, a zone change from Rural-43, R1-6, R-2, R-3, C-O, C-S, C-1, and C-2 to IND-2 IUPD will
be processed. The rezoning will allow for light industrial development that may include
warehouse, data center, sand and gravel, and power generation uses.

2.
for the DMP previously changed the site’s land use designation from Rural Development Area to
small lot residential, medium density residential, high density residential, mixed use residential,
mixed use, community retail, educational, recreation/open space, non-developable open space,
and public facility for a mixed-use master-planned community known as Hassayampa Ranch
(Case DMP2005007). Over the past 20 years the he community never developed.
3.
The site is located west of the future Belmont Industrial DMP, and northwest of two (2) mining
operations.
4.
The narrative asserts that the proposed development meets the Comprehensive Plan
Amendment criteria in the following manner:
Whether the Amendment constitutes an overall improvement to the Comprehensive Plan and is
not solely for the good or benefit of a particular landowner or owners at a particular point in time.
The Site was originally entitled in 2008 to accommodate development of residential, commercial,
mixed use, recreation, education, and public facility uses. However, the Site has remained vacant
since it was entitled in 2008. The proposed Major CPA will provide flexible development
opportunities with light industrial uses that are more appropriate for the rural Site.
Designation of the site as industrial will further economic growth in the area by developing both
long-term and short-term employment opportunities. Long-term employment will be created by
the development of uses with highly skilled employment opportunities, such as warehouses, data
centers, sand and gravel mining, and power generation uses. Further, temporary employment
opportunities will be provided through construction activities related to the development on the
Site.
Whether the Amendment Will Adversely Impact All or Portion of the Planning Area by:
A. Altering Acceptable land use patterns – The Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan designates the Site
with rural land uses. However, as previously stated, the Site is located east of the recently
approved Belmont Industrial future development. The proposal responds to the approved land
uses in the surrounding context by providing synergistic land uses. The proposed Major CPA
follows the development patterns in the surrounding context and furthers opportunities for
employment centers along key transportation routes (both existing and planned).
Further, measures have been taken to mitigate the impact of the proposed development to
the surrounding area. As mentioned previously, the Site is located just west of the confluence
of the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash. Drainage channels and fill placement will

CPA250008
Page 3 of 8
allow for floodplain reclamation while preserving the historic flow patterns of the existing
washes ensuring minimal, if any, adverse impacts to adjacent properties.
B. Requiring public expenditures for larger or more expensive infrastructure – Redesignating the
Site with future industrial land uses will allow for future investment in much-needed public
infrastructure. As mentioned previously, the intent is to develop the Site with light industrial
uses, which may include on-site power generation uses. Additionally, access to the
development will require the extension and improvement of roadways, which will be
determined as part of the future rezone and site planning process.
C. Requiring public improvements to roads, sewer, or water systems that are needed to support
the planned land uses – Improvements to existing public infrastructure, as determined by
Maricopa County during the future site planning process, shall be completed by the developer.
New infrastructure serving the Site, such as vehicular access, sewer, and water, will also be
completed by the developer.
D. Adversely impacting planned uses because of increased traffic – At this time, it is not foreseen
that the proposal will adversely impact the area through increased traffic. A traffic engineer
will be engaged to study the traffic flows once end users are identified.
E. Affect the livability of the area or health and safety – The intent is to develop the Site
synergistically with the existing rural uses and planned industrial uses in the surrounding area.
F. Adversely impacting the natural environment or scenic quality of the area – The topography
of the Site is subject to hillside, ridges, washes, and floodplains. The intent is to preserve
historic flow patterns of the existing washes and ensure minimal, if any, adverse impacts to
adjacent properties.
Whether the amendment is consistent with the overall intent of the Comprehensive Plan.
The applicant’s narrative states that the request is consistent with the overall intent of the
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan by addressing the three core principals of the plan such as fostering
sustainable development and increasing the economic base for local, county, and state
economies.
The extent which the amendment is consistent with the specific goals and policies contained
within the Plan
The applicant’s narrative contains a substantial list of goals and policies from the
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan. This staff report identifies which goals, objectives, and policies the
applicant’s narrative addressed.
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan
Land Use:
Goal 1: Achieve balanced and efficient development patterns.
Policy L2.2: Where possible and appropriate, in the design and construction of new development,
preserve natural drainage ways, including the Hassayampa River, major washes, and open space
corridors.

CPA250008
Page 4 of 8
Transportation:
Goal 2: Contribute to a safe, seamless and effective transportation system.
Objective T.1: Establish a circulation system that provides for the safe, convenient and efficient
movement of goods and people throughout Maricopa County.
Environmental:
Goal 1: Contribute to an effective regional economy.
Policy E5.1: Encourage the reduction of unpaved roads.
Economic Growth:
Objective 1: Permit major commercial and job employment centers where the labor force and
infrastructure exist or are planned.
Energy:
Goal 4: Increase energy efficiency in new development.
Cost of Development
Goal 2: New development pays its proper and reasonable share of the costs of new infrastructure,
services, and other public improvements.

CPA250008
Page 5 of 8
Aerial image & surrounding environs
Area Land Use Designation

CPA250008
Page 6 of 8
Land Use Exhibits (Current and Proposed)

CPA250008
Page 7 of 8
Existing On-Site and Adjacent Zoning/ Land Use:
5.
On-site:
Rural-43, R1-6, R-2, R-3, C-O, C-2, C-1, & C-S / Natural desert
North:
Rural-43 / Natural desert
South:
Rural-43/ Natural desert, Pioneer Hassayampa Plan Mine & Single-family
Residence
East:
Rural-43 / Natural desert & Holcim Hassayampa Mine
West:
Rural-43 / Natural Desert
Utilities and Services:
6.
Water:
To be determined in the Plan of Development Phase
Wastewater:
To be determined in the Plan of Development Phase
School District:
Saddle Mountain Unified School District
Fire:
South County Fire & Medical
Police:
MCSO
Right-of-Way:
7.
The following table includes existing and proposed half-width right-of-way and the future
classification of roadways based upon the Maricopa County Department of Transportation
(MCDOT) Major Streets and Routes Plan. It should be noted that final determination of the
preservation of right-of-way or dedication of right-of-way will be determined by MCDOT in the
Zone Change and/or Plan of Development stage. Currently, MCDOT wishes that all perimeter
section lines reserve a half width right-of-way of 55’ and perimeter mid-section lines reserve a half
width right-of-way of 40’, but right of way reservations will not be determined until an exact use is
proposed and a Plan of Development is submitted.
Street Name
Half-width
Existing R/W
Half-width
Reserved R/W
Future Classification
331st Ave
0’
65’
Principal Arterial Roadway
Indian School Road
0’
65’
Principal Arterial Roadway
Camelback Road
0’
100’
Future Parkway
Hidden Waters Parkway
0’
100’
Future Parkway
Adopted Plan:
8.
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan (adopted 9/6/00): The plan designates this site as the Hassayampa
Ranch Development Master Plan (DMP, a mixed-use allowed for a master-planned community.
The DMP was approved under case DMP2005007 in 2007, but was never developed.
Public Participation Summary:
9.
The applicant complied with the requirements of the citizen review process with the required
posting of the site and notification by first class mail to interested parties and adjacent property
owners within 300’ of the subject parcel. Signs were posted on the site, in accordance with
applicable regulations. According to the applicant’s citizen participation results report, the
applicant has not received any responses, opposition, or support for this request. As of the writing
of this report, staff has received two letters in opposition from the City of Buckeye and the White
Tank Mountain Conservancy.

CPA250008
Page 8 of 8
10.
The City of Buckeye and the White Tank Mountain Conservancy (WTMC) are currently working
together on a connectivity initiative to preserve wildlife connectivity in the west valley in support
of the City’s open space visions, their transportation plan, and general plan. Both the City and
WTMC state that proposed Industrial land use is not appropriate for the location as it would
permit light industrial and heavy industrial land uses. Such uses would be disruptive and would
pose a burden to the landowners of the area. They also state concerns with preservation of the
Hassayampa River, as the site is adjacent to the confluence of the Hassayampa River and the
Jackrabbit Wash. They argue the site should be vacant or rural in order to preserve both
waterways.
11.
Since receipt of the City’s initial letter, the applicant met with them to discuss their concerns. The
applicant has agreed to work with the City by including language in the development narrative
that acknowledges and supports the need to address potential impacts on wildlife movement.
The City provided staff with an updated letter indicating there is objection to the proposed land
use as they have coordinated with the applicant to acknowledge their concerns.
Outstanding Concerns from Reviewing Agencies:
12.
None. The City’s previous concerns have been addressed.
Staff Analysis:
13.
The site is surrounded by existing and proposed industrial uses. Directly to the east and the
southeast are existing mining operations (LU20010060 and LU20140066). West of the site the
Belmont Industrial CPA designates approximately 5,000 acres for light/heavy industrial uses.
14.
Staff believes the proposed major CPA amendment meets the goals and objectives of both the
Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan and the County’s Comprehensive Plan. The original Hassayampa
Ranch DMP forecasted this area for a large mixed-use master-planned community – essential as
a future city with a variety of residential, commercial, and recreational open space land uses.
However, current climate and water concerns in this region of the Sonoran Desert make
developments such as the DMP less feasible. Moreover, the future Interstate – 11 freeway and
rail corridor near the site are optimal for location of distribution facilities, warehouses facilities,
and other industrial uses. The proposal is consistent with the surrounding region’s land use and
development patterns. Staff supports this CPA.
Recommendation:
15.
Staff recommends the Commission adopt a motion and recommend that the Board of
Supervisors approve CPA250008.
Presented by:
Paola Jaramillo, Planner
Reviewed by:
Rachel Applegate, Planning Supervisor
Attachments:
Case Map (1 page)
Land Use Exhibit (reduced 8.5”x11”, 2 pages)
Narrative Report (10 pages)
MCDOT comments (1 page)
City of Buckeye comments (2 pages)
City of Buckeye Updated Response (1 page)
White Tank Mountain Conservancy comments (4 pages)
AZG&F comments (4 pages)

/
Maricopa County Planning & Development - Phoenix, AZ
4
Gross Acres: 2,073 approx.
Generated October 10, 2025 12:16 PM
CPA250008
Application Name:
Legal Description
Hassayampa Ranch
Applicant
Case Address
WENDY RIDDELL
Applicant Phone/Email
Parcel Primary:504-03-010
4806823916
zoning@berryriddell.com
Map scale 1:32,604
Supervisor District No.
Remove the site from the Hassayampa Ranch DMP and designate it as Industrial on the Tonopah/
Arlington Area Plan.

CITY OF BUCKEYE
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
BETHANY HOME RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
INDIAN SCHOOL RD
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
339TH AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
331ST AVE
CITY OF BUCKEYE
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
CAMELBACK RD
FIGURE 3
PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE
2,000'
Scale: 1" = 2,000'
0
1,000'
4,000'
U:\_2025\25003666\25003666A - Arizona Land Consulting\PLANNING\ENTITLEMENT\CPA\1ST SUBMITTAL\EXHIBITS\25003666_FIG03_PROP_LAND_USE.dwg
9/19/2025 4:00:22 PM
N
TONOPAH/ARLINGTON PLAN, MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA
HASSAYAMPA RANCH
MAJOR COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
Engineering
& Design
4742 N. 24th ST., STE. 270
PHOENIX, AZ 85016
P: 602.490.0535
F: 602.368.2436
Formerly
© 2025. COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN, INC. All Rights Reserved. This drawing and all the information contained herein is authorized for use only by the party for whom the services were contracted or to whom it is certified. This drawing may not be copied, reused, disclosed, distributed or relied upon for any other purpose without the express written consent of Colliers Engineering & Design.
PROJECT MANAGER:
R.GUBSER,AICP
PROJECT NUMBER: 25003666
SEPTEMBER 2025
LEGEND
LAND USES
PROJECT DIRECTORY
APPLICANT/LAND USE COUNSEL
OWNER/DEVELOPER
BERRY RIDDELL LLC
PLANNING / ENGINEERING
COLLIERS ENGINEERING & DESIGN
ARIZONA LAND CONSULTING
VICINITY MAP
SITE DATA
INTERSTATE
ARIZONA
10
SITE
SITE
CASE #: CPA2500008
BUCKEYE
REQUEST:
MAJOR COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT TO REMOVE THE SITE
FROM A HASSAYAMPA RANCH DMP AND DESIGNATE IT AS
INDUSTRIAL.

Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Hassayampa Ranch
North of 339th Avenue and Indian School Road
Case Number: CPA2500008

1st Submittal: August 15, 2025
2nd Submittal: September 19, 2025
Final: October 17, 2025
Prepared by:
Berry Riddell LLC
Wendy Riddell, Esq.
Sarah Sawyer, Esq.
6750 E. Camelback Road, Suite 100
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Prepared for:
Arizona Land Consulting
Anita Verma
7181 East Camelback Road, Suite 401
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251

A. Executive Summary
The purpose of this request is to seek a Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (“Major
CPA”) for approximately 2,077 acres located north of 339th Avenue and Indian School
Road, known historically as Hassayampa Ranch (the “Site”). The intent is to remove the
Site from the Hassayampa Ranch Development Master Plan (“DMP”) and designate it as
Industrial on the Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan to permit a light industrial development
that may include warehouse, data center, sand and gravel, and power generation uses.

On-Site and Regional Location
The current Comprehensive Plan Amendment area is comprised of approximately 2,077
acres located north of 339th Avenue and Indian School Road, north of the Interstate 10
and west of the City of Buckeye. Just west of the Site is the future Belmont Industrial, an
approximate 5,147 acre property intended for future industrial uses.

In 2008, the Site, outlined in blue below, was zoned with a variety of residential and
commercial designations, some with Planned Area Development Overlays. Also in 2008,
the Hassayampa Ranch Development Master Plan (“DMP”) was established over the Site,
which plans for future residential, commercial, mixed use, recreation, education, and
public facility uses. Since the entitlements were approved in 2008, the Site has remained
vacant.
Suitability with the Surrounding Land Uses
The proposed CPA is more responsive to the surrounding area than the approved
Hassayampa Ranch DMP. The Site is generally located north of the Interstate 10 (the “I-
10”), west of the City of Buckeye, south of the approved Belmont DMP, and east of the
approved Belmont Industrial DMP.

In 2024, the Board of Supervisors approved a Major CPA for Belmont Industrial, an
approximate 5,000 acre property located adjacent to the Site on the west, as shown below.
The Major CPA removed this property from the Belmont DMP and designated it as
Industrial, allowing for future employment, light industrial, and heavy industrial uses.

The current request responds to the planned uses approved under the Belmont Industrial
Major CPA by offering synergistic land uses. The current request, which seeks an Industrial
Comprehensive Plan use designation, envisaging uses such as warehouses, data centers,
sand and gravel mining, and power generation uses. The proposed designation will work
in concert with the approved uses in the surrounding area to create an employment hub
in close proximity to major transportation infrastructure.

Roads and Transportation Systems
The Applicant has discussed the configuration of future roadways serving the Site with
the Maricopa County Department of Transportation (“MCDOT”). The exact roadway
configuration will be approved at the time of zoning and site planning. The Applicant is
dedicated to remaining collaborative with MCDOT through the zoning and site planning
processes to ensure adequate circulation supporting Hassayampa Ranch and reflects the
approved roadway alignments in the surrounding area.

Topography/Drainage
The topography of the Site is subject to hillside, ridges, washes, and floodplains. The Site
is located just west of the confluence of the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash, with
the wash traversing the northeastern corner of the property. The proposed use of
drainage channels and placement of fill will allow for potential floodplain reclamation

while preserving the historic flow patterns of the existing washes ensuring minimal, if any,
adverse impacts to adjacent properties. This approach effectively increases the
developable area and enhances the overall efficiency and flexibility of the site plan.

Existing Wildlife
The intent with this project is to mitigate any impacts on existing wildlife in the area. As
the project continues to develop, the development team is committed to coordinating
with the City of Buckeye, the White Tank Mountains Conservancy, and the Arizona Game
and Fish Department to mitigate impacts on wildlife movement to the greatest extent
possible.

B. Comprehensive Plan Criteria

Will the amendment constitute an overall improvement to the
Comprehensive Plan and is not solely for the good or benefit
of a particular landowner or owners at a particular point in
time?
The Site was originally entitled in 2008 to accommodate development of residential,
commercial, mixed use, recreation, education, and public facility uses. However, the Site
has remained vacant since it was entitled in 2008. The proposed Major CPA will provide
flexible development opportunities with light industrial uses that are more appropriate
for the rural Site.

Designation of the Site as industrial will further economic growth in the area by
developing both long-term and short-term employment opportunities. Long-term
employment will be created by the development of uses with highly skilled employment
opportunities, such as warehouses, data centers, sand and gravel mining, and power
generation uses. Further, temporary employment opportunities will be provided through
construction activities related to the development on the Site.

Will the amendment adversely impact all or a portion of the
planning area by:
• Altering acceptable land use patterns to the detriment of
the plan;
The Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan designates the Site with rural land uses. However, as
previously stated, the Site is located east of the recently approved Belmont Industrial
future development. The proposal responds to the approved land uses in the surrounding

context by providing synergistic land uses. The proposed Major CPA follows the
development patterns in the surrounding context and furthers opportunities for
employment centers along key transportation routes (both existing and planned).

Further, measures have been taken to mitigate the impact of the proposed development
to the surrounding area. As mentioned previously, the Site is located just west of the
confluence of the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash. Drainage channels and fill
placement will allow for floodplain reclamation while preserving the historic flow patterns
of the existing washes ensuring minimal, if any, adverse impacts to adjacent properties.

• Requiring public expenditures for larger and more
expensive infrastructure;
Redesignating the Site with future industrial land uses will allow for future investment in
much-needed public infrastructure. As mentioned previously, the intent is to develop the
Site with light industrial uses, which may include on-site power generation uses.
Additionally, access to the development will require the extension and improvement of
roadways, which will be determined as part of the future rezone and site planning process.

• Requiring public improvements to roads, sewer, or water
systems that are needed to support the planned land uses;
Improvements to existing public infrastructure, as determined by Maricopa County during
the future site planning process, shall be completed by the developer. New infrastructure
serving the Site, such as vehicular access, sewer, and water, will also be completed by the
developer.

• Adversely impacting planned uses because of increased
traffic;
At this time, it is not foreseen that the proposal will adversely impact the area through
increased traffic. A traffic engineer will be engaged to study the traffic flows once end
users are identified.

• Affect the livability of the area or health or safety of
present and future residents; or
The intent is to develop the Site synergistically with the existing rural uses and planned
industrial uses in the surrounding area.

• Adversely impacting the natural environment or scenic
quality of the area in contradiction to the plan?

As previously mentioned, the topography of the Site is subject to hillside, ridges, washes,
and floodplains. The intent is to preserve historic flow patterns of the existing washes and
ensure minimal, if any, adverse impacts to adjacent properties.

Is the amendment consistent with the overall intent of the
Comprehensive Plan?
The stated purpose of the Maricopa County Vision 2030 Comprehensive Plan is to
maintain a high quality of life for Maricopa County residents by protecting public health
and safety, promoting stable economic growth, maintaining a healthy environment,
providing adequate community services, and ensuring that tax money is spent efficiently.
The Comprehensive Plan utilizes three core principles to guide future development to
achieve its stated purpose:
1. “Decisions should support implementation of Maricopa County’s mission
statement and strategic priorities;
2. Maintain a disciplined approach where comprehensive plan policies and growth
related decisions are understandable, measurable, consistent, practical and
promote efficiency. Land use decisions are also based on these factors;
3. Avoid future problems by carefully considering past decisions.”

The Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan states, “sensible, balanced and
economically efficient land use patterns are important for Maricopa County to have
successful long-term growth and a high quality of life” tying directly into the stated
purpose discussed above. The proposed Major CPA supports this vision by providing
flexibility in the types of future industrial uses that may develop on the Site. Further, the
Site is the ideal location for these future uses given its proximity to major transportation
infrastructure and the synergistic development patterns in the surrounding context. If
approved, the development will result in land uses that are sensible, consistent, practical,
and balanced across the Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan.

Lastly, the Comprehensive Plan discusses challenges related to the Urban/Rural interface:
“As growth expands outward new challenges arise where urban and rural areas converge
in what is referred to as urban/rural interface areas. Because these challenges can affect
an area’s quality and livability they must be addressed through reasonable measures.
Some of the challenges include:
• Making consistent decisions regarding land use compatibility;
• Balancing rural residents’ expectations with those of urban residents, including:
i. Limiting the impacts that horses and other large animals have on
urban/suburban
areas
and,
conversely,
limiting
the
impacts
that
urban/suburban development have on the ability to keep horses and other
large animals;

ii. Limiting the impacts that agriculture (i.e. noise, dust, odor) can have on
surrounding suburban/urban development and, conversely, limiting the
impacts of such development on the ability to perform agriculture;
iii. Determining the proper density and intensity of land uses in urban/rural
interface areas.”

The proposed Major CPA seeks compatible uses to the recent Belmont Industrial Major
CPA that was approved by the Board of Supervisors in 2025, located west of the Site.
Additionally, the Site’s ideal location adjacent to future heavy industrial uses and major
transportation infrastructure provides an appropriate environment for future light
industrial development.

The Site is also located within the Comprehensive Plan’s Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan
(the “Area Plan”), which advances additional goals and policies that are designed to
accommodate the growth anticipated in the area. These goals and policies relate to land
use, transportation, the environment, and economic development. The proposed Major
CPA advances the goals and policies of the Area Plan by allowing for the development of
flexible future industrial uses to accommodate changes in market demand, provide
opportunities for employment to the surrounding community, and develop key public
infrastructure.

To what extent is the amendment consistent with the specific
goals and policies contained within the plan?

The proposal advances the goals of the Comprehensive Plan, as discussed below:

Land Use Goal #1: Achieve balanced and efficient development patterns.
Response: As previously stated, the Site is adjacent to the recently approved
Belmont Industrial site. The proposal offers a synergistic land use, by proposing a
light industrial development. Both sites will work together to create an
employment hub, appropriately located near transportation infrastructure.

Transportation Goal #2: Contribute to a safe, seamless and effective transportation
system.
Response: The exact roadway configuration is not determined at this time;
however, the Applicant has commenced discussions with MCDOT to determine the
design of future roadways serving the Site to ensure a smooth transition to the
existing transportation infrastructure.

Economic Growth Goal #1: Contribute to an effective regional economy.
Response: As mentioned previously, designation of the Site as industrial will
further economic growth in the area by developing both long-term and short-term
employment opportunities. Long-term employment will be created by the
development of uses with highly skilled employment opportunities and temporary
employment opportunities will be provided through construction of future
development on the Site.

Energy Goal #4: Increase energy efficiency in new development.
Response: The proposal includes opportunity for development of power
generation uses. This will create opportunities for future key infrastructure
development in an area where these services do not currently exist.

Cost of Development Goal #2: New development pays its proper and reasonable share
of the costs of new infrastructure, services, and other public improvements.
Response: Site and infrastructure improvements will be completed by the
developer.

The proposal advances the goals of the Tonopah/Arlington Area Plan, as discussed below:

Land Use Policy L2.2: Where possible and appropriate, in the design and construction of
new development, preserve natural drainage ways, including the Hassayampa River, major
washes, and open space corridors.
Response: As stated previously, the Site is located just east of the confluence of
the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash, with the wash traversing the
northeastern corner of the property. The intent is to utilize the natural
drainageways to preserve historic flows and minimize impact to adjacent
properties.

Transportation Objective T.1: Establish a circulation system that provides for the safe,
convenient and efficient movement of goods and people throughout Maricopa County.
Response: Future development will extend, improve, and connect to existing
roadways as required by a Traffic Impact Analysis (“TIA”) through subsequent
zoning and site planning processes. When end users are identified and during the
site planning phase, a traffic engineer will be retained to analyze traffic flows to
and from the Site.

Environment Policy E5.1: Encourage the reduction of unpaved roads.

Response: Future development on the Site will include paved roadways.
Surrounding dirt roadways will be paved if warranted by the TIA at the time of site
planning.

Economic Development Objective 1: Permit major commercial and job employment
centers where the labor force and infrastructure exist or are planned.
Response: The Site is ideally located north of the I-10 freeway, providing
opportunity for the development of light industrial and employment uses. The
proposed Major CPA will permit a wide array of future industrial uses that are
flexible enough to respond to market conditions, but stable enough to provide
long-term employment opportunities and economic growth to the area.

C. CONCLUSION
The purpose of this request is to seek a Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment for
approximately 2,077 acres located north of 339th Avenue and Indian School Road. The
Major CPA will remove the Site from the Hassayampa Ranch DMP and designate it as
Industrial to accommodate a light industrial development that may include warehouse,
data center, sand and gravel, and power generation uses.

1
Paola Jaramillo Quintero (PND)
From:
Joseph Mueller <jmueller@buckeyeaz.gov>
Sent:
Monday, September 15, 2025 10:10 AM
To:
Paola Jaramillo Quintero (PND)
Cc:
Adam Copeland; Darren Gerard (PND); Rachel Applegate (PND)
Subject:
CPA250008 - Hassayampa Ranch
Follow Up Flag:
Follow up
Flag Status:
Flagged
This Message Is From an External Sender
This message came from outside your organization. Please use caution when corresponding outside the county.
Good morning Paola,

As currently proposed, city staff are not supportive of the proposed amended future land use
designation to industrial.

The city is currently working in conjunction with the White Tank Mountains Conservancy to identify
wildlife corridors to create linkages from the White Tanks to the Belmont mountains and other major
habitat centers. This has been an issue that city council has been keenly interested in for the past
couple years.

River corridors and large washes, along with adjacent flood plain, are good candidates for these wildlife
connectivity corridors. While staff is aware that the subject site is outside of the city's municipal
planning boundary there is strong concern that designating portions of the Jackrabbit Wash, especially
adjacent to the confluence of the Jackrabbit Wash and the Hassayampa River may have impacts of the
efficacy of wildlife corridor preservation.

Staff strongly recommends coordination with the White Tank Mountains Conservancy on this matter.

Additionally, city staff would be happy to meet with the applicant and/or the county to discuss alternate,
less intense, land use designations that would be more appropriate for this area.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions and please keep city staff updated on any updates to this
case.

Kind regards,

Joseph Mueller
Senior Planner
Development Services Department
(623) 204-5505

This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual(s) addressed in the message. If
you are not the named addressee, you should not disseminate, distribute, or copy this e-mail. If you are not the
intended recipient, you are notified that disclosing, distributing, or copying this e-mail is strictly prohibited.

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

945 N. 215 T H AVE. • SUITE 137 • BUCKEYE, AZ • 85326
BUCKEYEAZ.GOV
October 16, 2025

Paola Jaramillo
Planning and Development
Planner
301 W. Jefferson St. #170 Phoenix, AZ 85003
O: 602-506-8150

Re: Hassayampa Ranch Proposal CPA250008
I’m following up regarding the Hassayampa Ranch project. I had the opportunity to discuss the
previously raised concerns with the applicant and landowner, Wendy Riddell and Anita Verma. As a
result, they have agreed to include language in their project narrative that acknowledges and supports
the need to address potential impacts on wildlife movement.
Specifically, at the time of development, they have committed to coordinating with the City of Buckeye,
the White Tank Mountains Conservancy, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department to mitigate
impacts on wildlife movement to the greatest extent possible.
We also ask that if any project impacts incorporated Buckeye by any means from a traffic, visual, or
infrastructure perspective that coordination with City of Buckeye occurs at the time of development.
With the inclusion of this language, we have no objection to the proposed land use.
Regards,

Adam Copeland
Deputy Director of Planning
City of Buckeye
623-349-6210
acopeland@buckeyeaz.gov

1
Paola Jaramillo Quintero (PND)
From:
Laurel Arndt <larndt@wtmconservancy.org>
Sent:
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 10:18 AM
To:
Paola Jaramillo Quintero (PND); Rachel Applegate (PND)
Subject:
Comments on County Planning Project CPA 250008 -Hassayampa Ranch
Follow Up Flag:
Follow up
Flag Status:
Flagged
This Message Is From an External Sender
This message came from outside your organization. Please use caution when corresponding outside the county.
Good Morning ,
I am an environmental planner and the Project Manager for the White Tank Mountain Conservancy ConnecƟvity
IniƟaƟve. We worked closely with the City of Buckeye, Maricopa County Parks and RecreaƟon, Flood Control District of
Maricopa County, the BLM the BOR and other major landowners ( Howard Hughes Holdings and LKY Development ) to
develop a concept for preserving wildlife connecƟvity in the west valley. This Concpet is now a very important
component in the City of Buckeye’s open space visions and their transportaƟon and general plan.
The City of Buckeye has shared this project with us and as a stakeholder we would like to give our feedback.
I am sorry that the County Planning Department seems to be unaware of our work. We have not had any meeƟngs with
the County’s planning review staﬀ or Jen Pokorski - County Manager. Nonetheless I would ask that the County educate
itself with the Conceptual Wildlife Corridor and the City’s OS plan and vision to preserve areas around the corridor to
facilitate them as a part of the linkage. Please feel free to go to our website to understand connecƟvity in the west
valley and read the report with the ﬁnal recommendaƟon on the Conceptual Wildlife Linkage

I apologize for being so late in geƫng comments back as I was out of the country Ɵll a week ago.

I have had Ɵme to sit down and digest this request to amend the Hassayampa Ranch DMP.
Below are my general observaƟons/comments:

1. This is a case of right project but wrong locaƟon. While this project is likely reasonable and warranted for the west
valley, this speciﬁc site is not the appropriate locaƟon. It would be a compaƟble and reasonable amendment if it were
for another Planning area but not the Hassayampa Ranch Development Master Plan.
2. It is a reach to consider this a suitability project given the surrounding land use of large lot rural residenƟal and its
adjacency to the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash.
3. The Comprehensive Plan for Maricopa County 2030 ( which is looking to be updated), emphasizes limiƟng impacts on
the surrounding suburban/rural development and balancing residents’ expectaƟons. The introducƟon of industrial
development into an area of open space, natural resources and large lot residenƟal certainly would likely result in
negaƟve impacts to the areas quality of life and livability (speciﬁcs to follow)

Please consider my comments below in support my general observaƟons.

The site currently has zoning for variety of residenƟal and commercial designaƟons. A site visit (as I have done) and a
visit to the Assessors site and a Google aerial view will reveal that the adjacent land (to the west and southwest) is
exisƟng large residenƟal lots, rural in nature and with undeveloped open spaces. There is only one industrial use in the
area: a small solar site at 335th and Indian School Road. Land to the east across the Hassayampa River is also single-
family master planned residenƟal (Tartesso) as well as large lot rural parcels backing up to the Hassayampa River.
A conversion to industrial in this rural area is not consistent with the exisƟng surrounding rural large residenƟal lots nor
suitable.

The applicaƟon is a request to designate the site as “Industrial” and to permit light industrial development. Industrial or
(light industrial development) is not compaƟble to the surrounding rural residenƟal area. The light industrial uses listed
will result in large trucks (sand and gravel mining) and nighƫme traﬃc (warehousing) and large use of water in a
drought area (data centers and power generaƟons).
AddiƟonally, this change in land use could allow for heavy industrial and there are no assurances that once the area is
rezoned the exisƟng land owners would not be immune from a request for large heavy industrial. The adjacency of this
site to the river should not assume it would be “out of sight out of mind” and relegated to industrial usages which are
not friendly to this rural neighborhood. None of this development potenƟal is suitable or consistent with any type of
residenƟal land use no maƩer whether it is rural or urban. AddiƟonally, there is no synergy to other industrial sites
(Belmont Industrial is three miles to the west) or compaƟbility to the exisƟng rural large lot parcels.

As menƟoned in the applicaƟon synopsis, the area has already seen an amendment (Belmont Industrial) for industrial
further to the west. Rezoning of land for industrial or commercial use from large lot rural is a reasonable request if it has
proximity to a new or exisƟng transportaƟon corridor (I-11 and I-10) in the area which would facilitate growth and
employment and would not be a hardship on the exisƟng land uses or residents. This is not the case for this request for a
rezoning. This industrial development will be isolated and a standalone project within a rural land use and open space
area. The closest major corridor is I-10 and at this Ɵme there is no direct access to I-10 and the creaƟon of this would
also be disrupƟve and pose a burden on landowner in the area.

The site is also adjacent to the conﬂuence of the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash conﬂuence. The Hassayampa
River and Jackrabbit Wash are idenƟﬁed in the Buckeye at Play Parks and RecreaƟon Master Plan as wildlife corridors.
The plans states: The City of Buckeye should conƟnue its collaboraƟve eﬀorts with Arizona Game and Fish Department,
developers, property owners, and environmental groups, including the White Tank Mountains Conservancy to determine
methods and approaches to preserve these corridors at both the beneﬁt of wildlife and the developer’s interests.
The White Tank Conservancy has worked for the past 12 years with Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Bureau
of ReclamaƟon (CAP) on wildlife connecƟvity in the west valley/ the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit wash are criƟcal
components to this linkage. There is a long planning history of preserving the Hassayampa River as a wildlife and
recreaƟonal corridor. Projects like this must be designed avoid the river corridor, ﬂoodway and buﬀers.

In addiƟon to preservaƟon eﬀorts, both of these water ways are considered regulatory FEMA ﬂoodplain and as noted
the site is subject to hillside, ridges washes and ﬂoodplains. The proponents’ states that there will be usage of drainage
channels and placement of ﬁll to allow for ﬂoodplain reclamaƟon. The amendment language is general and oﬀers does
nothing to miƟgate the adverse impacts to the waterway, vegetaƟon or wildlife. It simply only considers the adverse
impacts to adjacent properƟes; this is a vague statement and has much room for interpretaƟon
WTMC has share the Linkage concept with the County TransportaƟon Planners and environmental and biology staﬀ. To
that end, any reclamaƟon or construcƟon of channels would not support the City’s linkage or open space goals. The
desire is to buﬀer development from the washes and rivers to allow for their funcƟonality as a wildlife corridor and an
open space resource.

My addiƟonal comments to:
SecƟon B:
The site has remained vacant due not just to economics but also because it is challenging to build on given the
topography and hydrology. Unlike some areas further to the west, large scale clearing of land for required substanƟal
footprints to accommodate potenƟal large developments I.e., solar, warehousing, industrial complexes) may prove
costly when considering infrastructure requirements (roads, uƟliƟes, water). There are concerns that any development
in this area would result adverse in unintenƟonal but most certainly ﬁnancial impacts to landowners and the
jurisdicƟons (including Buckeye because of its proximity to Buckeye Municipal Planning areas).

The argument for employment opportuniƟes is also not reasonable given that an employment corridor would be beƩer
suited along a major transportaƟon network such as arterial with developed roadway and uƟlity infrastructure to
support the traﬃc demands form industrial uses. As menƟoned, there is rezoning occurring to the west that is more

3
reasonable and appropriate for addressing employment opportuniƟes and economic growth. This area currently is of
rural character with liƩle to no planned infrastructure connecƟvity (dirt roads, wells and limited street infrastructure).

SecƟon C:
This area should remain a designated area for rural land uses. The Belmont Industrial future development is three miles
and the approval of the Belmont Industrial was reasonable based on its proximity to a future (I-11) and current (I-10 and
Indian School) transportaƟon corridor. This request for a land use amendment oﬀers liƩle to no synergy in compaƟble
land use. This site is not even accessed by an exisƟng corridor (see site map for idenƟﬁcaƟon of the Indian School
“alignment”).

Many of the general statements made in this secƟon come with no assurances that the quality of life for
residents and the costs bore by the County will not be signiﬁcant and will be miƟgated to reduce/eliminate
these subjecƟve and adverse impacts.

Most certainly, any land use change would negaƟvely impact the natural environment or scenic quality of the
area in contradicƟon to the development of rural large lot development.

This request to rezone is not compaƟble with the surrounding land uses. There is no demand to convert this area to
industrial usage when nearby areas (I-11 and I-10 ) corridor are strategically suited for future industrial and commercial
development. This is simply the right project in the wrong place.

SecƟon D:
This amendment lacks sensibility and balance given the exisƟng area and paƩern of development. The area is primarily
large lot rural land use and as it is adjacent to a major river and wash, it is an open space resource that should be
protected. InserƟon of an industrial use is not compaƟble with the character and lifestyle that has existed for over 40
years in the area. This amendment also gets right to the core of how to NOT create an Urban/Rural interface. As there is
no urban area to interface with in the surrounding land uses (only open space, nature and large lot rural land use) it is
diﬃcult to imagine how to how warehouses, power staƟons, gravel pits or solar ﬁeld are a reasonable “interface” or
transiƟon for the area. This amendment is not about what the area needs it is more about trying to posiƟon the land to
be sold. Simply stated: this site cannot be sold for residenƟal land use due to water insecurity, and this is a work around
to make the land more aƩracƟve for sale. This is simply the right project in the wrong place.

SecƟon E:
The applicant has conﬂicƟng language here, see highlighted area:
Topography/Drainage
The topography of the Site is subject to hillside, ridges, washes, and ﬂoodplains. The Site is located just east of the
conﬂuence of the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit Wash, with the wash traversing the northeastern corner of the
property. The proposed use of drainage channels and placement of ﬁll will allow for potenƟal ﬂoodplain reclamaƟon
while preserving the historic ﬂow paƩerns of the exisƟng washes ensuring minimal, if any, adverse impacts to adjacent
properƟes. This approach eﬀecƟvely increases the developable area and enhances the overall eﬃciency and ﬂexibility of
the site plan.
Land Use Policy L2.2: Where possible and appropriate, in the design and construcƟon of new development, preserve
natural drainage ways, including the Hassayampa River, major washes, and open space corridors.
Response: As stated previously, the Site is located just east of the conﬂuence of the Hassayampa River and Jackrabbit
Wash, with the wash traversing the northeastern corner of the property. The intent is to uƟlize the natural drainageways
to preserve historic ﬂows and minimize impact to adjacent properƟes.

The yellow statements are conﬂicƟng and highlight concerns about the applicant’s intent and approach for
development in this area. It also raises concerns about what will be implemented by the ﬁnal developer and engineer.
Any aƩempt to “reclaim” the ﬂoodplain will negaƟvely impact the natural resources in the area. This parcel is not
appropriate for this type and intensity of development if the only way it “works” is to try to reclaim areas.

4
The amendment is general and oﬀers no speciﬁcity to ensure that development along the Hassayampa River be
appropriate and compaƟble with development along a major river and wash in the desert. AddiƟonally, this type of
developmental gives no consideraƟon of the years of planning and vision which the City and the WTMC have invested to
develop the west valley as an alternaƟve to tradiƟonal development along natural resource areas. Please encourage this
applicant and any others applicants developing adjacenƩot the City of Buckeye to become familiar with the Conceptual
Wildlife ConnecƟvity hƩps://www.wtmconservancy.org/connecƟvity-iniƟaƟve/.

Conclusion:

I would respecƞully request that the County not approve this Major Comprehensive Amendment for the 2,077 acres
located north of 339th Ave and Indian School Road, known historically as Hassayampa Ranch for the reasons stated
above.

Respecƞully,

September 15, 2025

Ms. Paola Jarmillo
Maricopa County
Planner, Planning and Development
301 W. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Electronically submitted to: Paola.Jaramillo@maricopa.gov

RE:
CPA250008 - Hassayampa Ranch

Dear Ms. Jarmillo:

The Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department) appreciates the opportunity to review the
proposed Hassayampa Ranch Major Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Project). The Department
understands that Berry Riddell LLC (Developer) is requesting a Major Comprehensive Plan
Amendment (CPA) to change the land use designation of approximately 2,077 acres from the
Hassayampa Ranch Development Master Plan to Industrial. The purpose of the CPA is to permit
light industrial development that may include a warehouse, data center, sand and gravel, and
power generation uses. The Project would be located north of 339th Avenue and Indian School
Road, north of Interstate 10 and west of the City of Buckeye, Arizona in unincorporated
Maricopa County within primarily undisturbed Sonoran desert scrub habitat.

Under Title 17 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the Department, by and through the Arizona
Game and Fish Commission, has jurisdictional authority and public trust responsibilities to
conserve and protect the state fish and wildlife resources. In addition, the Department manages
threatened and endangered species through authorities of Section 6 of the Endangered Species
Act and the Department’s Section 10(a)(1)(A) permit. It is the mission of the Department to
conserve and protect Arizona's diverse fish and wildlife resources and manage for safe,
compatible outdoor recreation opportunities for current and future generations. For your
consideration, the Department provides the following comments based on the agency's statutory
authorities, public trust responsibilities, and special expertise related to wildlife resources and
recreation.

The attached Arizona Online Environmental Review Tool (ERT) report (HGIS-26171) identifies
Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN), as identified in Arizona’s State Wildlife Action
Plan (SWAP), and Species of Economic and Recreational Importance that have been documented
or predicted within the buffered project footprint, as well as associated best management practice

AZGFD Comments - CPA250008 - Hassayampa Ranch
September 15, 2025
Page 2

recommendations. Please note the Department has an interactive website, Arizona Wildlife
Conservation Strategy , that includes the most recent list of SGCN species statewide to help
1
navigate and identify conservation opportunities.
● The Department recommends conducting surveys for nesting birds prior to vegetation
removal and/or construction activities that occur during the breeding season, which is
typically January through June in this area. The vegetation within the project area,
specifically along ephemeral drainages, may provide nesting opportunities for avian
species that are regulated under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). If it is
anticipated that the project will not be in compliance with MBTA, the Department
recommends contacting the US Fish and Wildlife Services for technical assistance.
● Burrowing species could occur within the project area and could be influenced by
construction activities and loss of habitat. Surveys for these species are recommended to
determine their presence and to inform pre-construction activities. Department staff are
available to assist in identifying suitable conservation measures, such as one-way
exclosures on burrows that allow wildlife to exit the burrows and disperse to adjacent
lands in advance of construction.

Maintaining habitat connectivity is a priority for the Department, and wildlife movement
corridors are important for wildlife to respond to changing environmental conditions. This
project falls within the Hassayampa Conservation Opportunity Area (COA) and intersects
multiple ephemeral washes, specifically Jackrabbit Wash and Hassayampa River, both of which
provide movement pathways for wildlife. The Department provides the following
recommendations to incorporate wildlife connectivity into the project design:
● Department analysis indicates that your project is located in the vicinity of an identified
COA. The Department’s Arizona Wildlife Conservation Strategy identified COAs across
the state that represent specific areas on the landscape where actions will most likely lead
to substantial improvements for wildlife and their habitats. COAs were identified using
species and habitat data, the presence of unique landscape features, and Departmental
expertise. COAs range in size, scope, and focal species and/or habitats and should be
considered voluntary guidance to prioritize areas where conservation efforts would be
most effective. Please refer to the Department’s website for more conservation goals and
2
actions specific to the COA near your project area and the Department's suggestions for
potential conservation efforts.
● The Department’s Wildlife Compatible Fencing Guidelines provide information on how
3
fencing impacts wildlife, ways to design fencing to prevent wildlife entanglement and
impalement, and to ensure wildlife movement is not restricted. Department personnel are
available as resources to help determine appropriate fencing design and layout that will
achieve its objective while reducing impacts on wildlife.
● The washes in the project area serve multiple functions in the ecosystem, including
landscape-level conveyance corridors for wildlife movement. Where possible, the
Department recommends a buffer of 200 feet be maintained around ephemeral riparian
3 https://s3.amazonaws.com/azgfd-portal-wordpress/PortalImages/files/wildlife/planningFor/wildlifeFriendlyGuidelines/
110125_AGFD_fencing_guidelines.pdf
2 https://awcs.azgfd.com/conservation-opportunity-areas
1 https://awcs.azgfd.com

AZGFD Comments - CPA250008 - Hassayampa Ranch
September 15, 2025
Page 3

areas. Department personnel are available to assist in determining appropriate setbacks
and other measures to minimize impacts to these areas.

The Department offers the following general recommendations to reduce potential impacts to
wildlife and habitat during the construction and operation of the facility:
● A variety of other Arizona SGCN have the potential to occur within the project area. If
wildlife are encountered during project activities, the Department recommends moving
them out of harm’s way, no more than 0.25 mile outside the project boundary within
similar habitat.
● If trenching or digging of large holes is necessary, the Department recommends
trenching/digging and backfilling crews work closely together to minimize the amount of
open holes at any given time. Where trenches or holes cannot be back-filled immediately,
the Department recommends escape ramps be constructed at least every 300 feet. Escape
ramps can be short lateral trenches or wooden planks sloping to the surface. The
Department recommends that slopes be less than 45 degrees (1:1) and trenches and holes
that have been left open to be inspected to remove animals prior to backfilling.
● Artificial lighting could impair the ability of nocturnal animals to navigate (e.g., owls,
migratory birds, bats, and other nocturnal mammals) and may affect wildlife behavior
and populations (Davies et. al. 2013 ). The Department recommends using only the
4
minimum amount of light needed for safety. If feasible, “warmer” narrow spectrum
lighting (amber, orange, red) is wildlife-friendly and should be used as often as possible
to minimize the number of species affected by lighting. It is also beneficial that all
lighting is shielded, canted, or cut to minimize the amount of upward shining light.
● If drainage/erosion structures are needed for the site, Department staff are available to
assist in identifying potential impacts to wildlife and conservation measures to minimize
potential impacts in development or construction of erosion structures. As an example,
rip-rap is difficult for many species to traverse. If rip-rap is required for the construction
of on-site retention basins or large-scale drainage needs, burying and back-filling with
topsoil or other substrate would allow wildlife to move through the basins.
● Please ensure the project complies with Arizona Native Plant Law regulations. A native
5
plant inventory may need to be conducted to identify, record, and coordinate plant
salvage efforts for species that are protected under the Arizona Native Plant law.
● To minimize the potential introduction or spread of exotic invasive species, including
aquatic and terrestrial plants, animals, insects, and pathogens, the Department encourages
taking precautions to wash and/or decontaminate equipment before entering and leaving
the site. See the Arizona Department of Agriculture website for a list of prohibited and
6
restricted noxious weeds and the Arizona Native Plant Society for recommendations on
7
how to control them. To view a list of documented invasive species or to report invasive
species in or near your project area, visit iMapInvasives , which is a national cloud-based
8
application for tracking and managing invasive species.
8 https://imap.natureserve.org/imap/services/page/map.html
7 https://aznps.com/conservation-original/invasive-plants/
6 https://agriculture.az.gov/pestspest-control/agriculture-pests/noxious-weeds
5 https://agriculture.az.gov/plantsproduce/native-plants
4 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3657119

AZGFD Comments - CPA250008 - Hassayampa Ranch
September 15, 2025
Page 4

○ Stinknet is a highly invasive noxious winter weed native to South Africa, and is
extremely flammable when dry. Stinknet (also known as globe chamomile) has
heavily infested Maricopa, Pinal, and Pima counties and is expanding into Yuma,
Yavapai, and Gila counties. Infestations spread rapidly along highways and open
fields in residential areas, with emergence starting in late November and plants
continuing to germinate and emerge through May in wet years. In order to
minimize the spread of this plant it is critical that any new infestations are
identified and quickly managed. Additional information is available through the
Southwest Vegetation Management Association , the Sonoran Desert Cooperative
9
Weed Management Area , or the Arizona Native Plant Society .
10
11
● The Department recommends revegetating disturbed areas with native drought-tolerant
species that represent the natural surrounding landscape. Landscaping with native plants
can help support wildlife and pollinator species in the area while reducing dust and
erosion. In addition, the applicable land management agencies should be consulted
regarding guidelines for revegetation efforts.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on the CPA250008-Hassayampa Ranch. For
further coordination, please contact Hunter Watson at hwatson@azgfd.gov or 480-997-3401.

Sincerely,

Kriselle Colvin
Regional Supervisor, Region VI

cc:
Callie Cavalcant – Habitat, Evaluation, and Lands Branch Chief

Attachment: ERT Species Report HGIS-26171

AZGFD #M25-08214547

11 http://aznps.com
10 https://www.sdcwma.org/species/stinknet.php
9 https://www.swvma.org/