Contract Summary

This is a Cooperative Stewardship Agreement (Contract No. A25-08081043) for habitat improvement entered into between Cienega Ranch LLC, represented by Josiah Austin, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (Department), and the Arizona Game and Fish Commission (Commission). The agreement is executed pursuant to A.R.S. § 17-231(B)(7) and involves wildlife habitat management on privately-owned lands within the Cienega Ranch property located southeast of Willcox in Cochise County, Arizona, specifically within Township 15 South, Range 28 East. The project is funded through a federal grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) under the National Fire Plan – Wildland Urban Interface Community Fire Assistance program, with the agreement also incorporating terms from the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program.

The project entails mesquite removal and grubbing on approximately 571 acres through mechanical means using heavy equipment (excavators and backhoes) to be completed between October 2025 and March 2026. The Department will reimburse Cienega Ranch LLC up to $228,400.00 at a rate not to exceed $400 per acre for labor, materials, and equipment costs associated with habitat improvements. The federal award (F23AC03097-01) totals $378,997.50, with $228,400.00 obligated to this agreement and extending through September 30, 2028. All work must comply with Buy America provisions requiring domestically-produced iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials. The agreement extends for ten years from the last signature date, with either party able to terminate upon 60 days' written notice. The Landowner must maintain restored habitat for a minimum of 10 years post-project completion.