The inaugural Phase I planning meeting to expand Benders Pond in Gila Bend was held on Wednesday, May 31st, 2023. Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), Arizona Deer Association (ADA), and the Town of Gila Bend have formed a unique partnership to expand and enlarge Benders Pond at Centennial Rotary Park. The pond will be enlarged to eight times its current size (0.25 acres) and deepened to 15 feet!
This expansion will allow for Bluegill, Bass, and Catfish to be stocked. The Town will pursue the possibility of adding Benders Pond to the AZGFD Community Fishing Program for regular fish stocking.
Phase II of this project will include a sidewalk around the pond, park benches, and the planting of additional shade trees. Once complete, Benders Pond at Centennial Rotary Park will give the residents of Gila Bend a great place to fish and spend quality time with their families.
This partnership is currently working on a fundraising strategy to garner financial support from businesses, residents, and the local ranching and farming community. For inquiries about this project, please contact Travis Clarkson, AZGFD Wildlife Manager at tclarkson@azgfd.gov or Jim Lawrence, ADA Projects Director at jim@azdeer.org
We Need Your Support!
Our fundraising goal for Phase I of this project is $48,000.
Your kind donation will be used exclusively for the Benders Pond Redevelopment Project. Donations are to be sent to the Arizona Deer Association, a 501c3 non-profit organization, so 100% of your donation is tax-deductible and you receive a receipt!
We are also offering several sponsorship opportunities. Those wishing to become a Benefactor and sponsor this project will have their name or logo printed on the large kiosk sign at the entrance to the park.
The Benefactor Levels are: Diamond---$10,000+ Gold---$5,000+ Silver---$1,000+
Please send your donations to:
Arizona Deer Association
Attn: Jim Lawrence
21633 North 14th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Please make sure the Memo reads Benders Pond, and thank you in advance for your generous support!