In partnership with Leave No Trace, ADEQ reminds Arizonans to keep rivers, lakes, and streams clean this holiday weekend
PHOENIX (May 20, 2025) — As Memorial Day weekend approaches and Arizonans head outdoors to enjoy the state’s rivers, lakes, and streams, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), in partnership with Leave No Trace, is launching a new statewide public education campaign – Arizona Water Keepers – to promote responsible recreation and protect Arizona’s water quality.
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of Arizona’s summer recreation season – a time when large crowds, heavy foot traffic, and improper waste disposal can threaten water quality at some of the state’s most beloved outdoor destinations.
“The impact of one weekend can linger all summer if we’re not careful,” said ADEQ Water Quality Division Director Trevor Baggiore. “Trash left behind and human or pet waste that isn’t properly handled can introduce harmful bacteria like E. coli into the water. The good news is: the solution is simple, and everyone can be a part of it.”
ADEQ’s Arizona Water Keepers campaign encourages the public to follow four easy steps:
- Get Ready – Bring a trash bag, check for algal blooms, and come prepared with sun protection and clean drinking water.
- Have a Poop Plan – Use restrooms or human waste bags and always pack out pet waste. Waste left behind spreads bacteria like E. coli that pollute water.
- Keep it Clean, Keep it Clear – Don’t wash in the water and avoid using soaps or lotions that harm aquatic life.
- Slow Erosion, Stay on Trail – Stick to marked paths to protect vegetation and reduce erosion into streams.
These small actions add up and create real results. Over the past five years, ADEQ has worked on a multi-pronged effort to improve the health of Oak Creek, outside of Sedona. These efforts related to being an Oak Creek Caretaker have achieved a 54 percent reduction in baseline levels of E. coli in the water, making the creek healthier for all to enjoy.
Please visit ADEQ’s Arizona Water Keepers webpage for more information azdeq.gov/waterkeeper.
