had to remove vegetation and frequently drain the ponds to upkeep the plant.

In 1995, the city began to officially recognize birding and made steps to accommodate the birds, including leaving vegetation in certain areas and only draining the pond when bird nesting is out of season. A meeting took place between representatives from the city's Department of Utility Services, the Red Rock Audubon Society, and MWH Global in December 1996 to create an actual birding preserve. The mayor, James B. Gibson,