Salado culture

[1] The Salado were farmers, using simple irrigation techniques to water fields of maize, beans, pumpkins, amaranth, and cotton.

While the Salado communities of the river valley have been covered by Theodore Roosevelt Lake, elevated cliff dwellings remain.

Sandals woven from yucca and agave fibers testify to weaving skills, as do close-coiled baskets.

[4] The Salt River flows through the Tonto Basin, which provided the Salado with enough water to support agriculture and animal populations.

Current flora and fauna in the basin and up into the surrounding hills and mountains include mesquite, Arizona walnut, and sycamore trees; saguaro, Cylindropuntia (cholla), prickly pear, agave, and jojoba cactus and succulents; oak, juniper, piñon, and ponderosa pine trees; and deer, rabbit, quail, and other such wildlife.