PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department and Central Arizona Project remind anglers and recreationists that fishing and swimming are prohibited in the CAP canal. 

The 336-mile canal, which runs through the Arizona desert and the Valley, is fenced the entire way “to ensure maximum safety,” according to a release from AZGFD.

“Whenever that fencing is purposely - and illegally - cut to gain access, it opens the possibility of drownings – both of people and thirsty wildlife trying to drink from the canal. The canal’s smooth concrete sides, combined with the strong current, make it extremely difficult for people or wildlife that have fallen in the water to climb out.”

The CAP canal is federal property and must be fenced off for security purposes. The system includes features such as siphons, overchutes and check structures that present other safety concerns, authorities said in the release.

Anyone trespassing on CAP property is subject a felony charge. The canal is monitored by law enforcement.

“The fence along the CAP canal provides an important safety barrier to species that cannot swim well or fly out,” Rana Murphy, terrestrial wildlife specialist for AZGFD’s regional office in Tucson, said.

“Cutting that fence puts one of Arizona's most valuable resources - our wildlife - at risk."

Those who see any canal cuts or suspicious activity around the CAP canal are asked to call 1-800-847-2303.

We would like to invite our readers to submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.