Phoenix conducts a controlled burn at Tres Rios Wetlands

Why it matters: Tres Rios Wetlands is a 700-acre restoration project that uses reclaimed water from the Phoenix wastewater treatment plant to create a riparian habitat for more than 150 species of birds and animals.

• The controlled burn will reduce dense vegetation to allow the habitat to continue to thrive, according to the city.

What they're saying: "Fire is nature's way of providing nutrients to the soil, removing invasive species of plant life, and improving the overall health of an ecosystem," Phoenix Water Services Department said in a statement.

Between the lines: The city previously tried to remove excess vegetation mechanically, but it was a time-consuming and cost-prohibitive process.