One river valley to the east of Tucson, Arizona, is the San Pedro River. Flowing north out of Mexico, the San Pedro is one of the very few living desert rivers remaining in Arizona. In addition to its relatively pristine riparian environment, the San Pedro holds a special place in human history in Arizona. People have been living and traveling along this river for the last 10,000 years. Evidence of much of this past human activity remains to this day.

Pothunting, vandalism, natural deterioration, and ground disturbance due to various human activities are taking their toll on critical sites in the river valley. In response to these threats, the Center has created the San Pedro Archaeological Preservation Program -- a long-term initiative to focus archaeological research, preservation and education activities on the entire San Pedro River watershed.