How can we have a lush but water-wise garden in the middle of a densely populated city? Join us at the Environment and Natural Resources 2 Building (ENR2), a LEED Platinum certified structure to learn how to create your own urban oasis. Please note: this tour is given on Saturday mornings and we meet in...
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday Time – 7:00am - 9:00am Location – Meet with staff at the main Entry Station. Volunteers needed - Up to 100 What should the volunteers bring?...
Are you mammal obsessed? This is the tour for you! Our Private Mammal Tour is a great option to meet some of our furry friends, watch feeding demonstrations, and learn more about the mammal residents at PHS! Your VIP-Inspired Experience Includes: Capybara interaction for the group. Meet, pet, and feed our adorable capybara "Spud"! Opossum interaction...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
Using recyclables plus a dash of imagination, construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. You might even find some dino-themed items to build with for Dinosaur Month!
Are you mammal obsessed? This is the tour for you! Our Private Mammal Tour is a great option to meet some of our furry friends, watch feeding demonstrations, and learn more about the mammal residents at PHS! Your VIP-Inspired Experience Includes: Capybara interaction for the group. Meet, pet, and feed our adorable capybara "Spud"! Opossum interaction...
Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience. Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...
It’s Going, Going, Green! Month, let’s learn about being good stewards of the earth! Visit Star Bar on the 2nd floor to learn about recycling in Phoenix, how to help animal habitats with a fun matching game, and more! Going, Going, Green! programming, our Cans for Seeds initiative, and the Earth Day Expo are generously supported by The Ball Foundation!
It’s Going, Going, Green! Month, let’s learn about being good stewards of the earth! Visit Star Bar on the 2nd floor to learn about recycling in Phoenix, how to help animal habitats with a fun matching game, and more! Going, Going, Green! programming, our Cans for Seeds initiative, and the Earth Day Expo are generously supported by The Ball Foundation!
When the heat arrives, you deserve beauty that doesn’t need constant care. This class focuses on easy-care, full-sun combinations that last through the toughest months. Learn Marylee’s favorite heat-loving plants, low-maintenance pairings, and simple design formulas that hold up all summer. Whether you’re new to the desert or tired of trial-and-error, you’ll leave with clear...
Sitting in the Highlands Center ramada while the wind rustles through the ponderosa pine needles and a robin chirps, there is a moment of silent contemplation. Natural history is complicated – personal and universal at the same time. Our Natural History book club met beginning in 2021 and the discussions occasionally resulted in these special...
Help eradicate buffelgrass from the park and Save Our Saguaros! Be prepared to work hard! Bring at least 2 bottles of water, snacks, sunscreen, sturdy footwear, hat, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Provided: gloves, tools, and instruction. Volunteers get in the park for free! Check in at the Ranger Station for the meeting location....
See the Surprise Xeriscape Garden in a new light by joining a guided tour with our Master Gardeners or Water Conservation staff. The tours are a great way to learn about the advantages of native or desert-adapted plants while seeing their beauty firsthand. All tours start at the Water Education Center at 9 a.m. Registration is not...
Catalina State Park has been beloved for decades by many but do you know how the park came to be? Explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today. Take a “behind the scenes” look at today’s operations and get a “sneak peek” at exciting new upgrades coming to...
La Tierra del Jaguar teams up with The Northern Jaguar Project to give you the latest in big cat news! Learn about the ecology, behavior, and conservation of mountain lions, bobcats, ocelots, and jaguars. Explore each species' unique role within their ecosystems, their hunting and survival strategies, and the challenges they face due to habitat loss...
Have you ever wondered how wildfires are managed in our unique Sonoran Desert landscape? Join us for an illuminating evening with Tiffany Davila from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, as she unpacks the science behind fighting fires in our desert ecosystem. You'll gain insights into the complete wildfire management process, from detection...
Join skilled storytellers for a cup of coffee and candid conversation that entertains, educates, and encourages a sense of wonder about science and the natural world around us. This speaker series hosts guest lecturers and light refreshments. Along the 850-mile Arizona Trail, which spans the length of the state from Utah to Mexico, diverse ecosystems...
Field Notes: Regeneration in Bloom brings together a mix of 2026 panel proposals and festival-curated adaptations, all centered on agave as a practical tool for regenerative agriculture in arid and semi-arid landscapes. Across the session, we look at how agave can support soil restoration, water-smart farming, and long-term resilience, grounded in ecological knowledge and place-based...
Join us for a special Arizona250 celebration at San Rafael Ranch Historic District, located within the San Rafael State Natural Area. This commemorative event invites the public to experience one of Arizona’s most significant historic ranching sites while celebrating Arizona’s rich heritage, landscapes, and communities. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historic ranch...
Bring your potted plants and cuttings to swap with other plant lovers at Red Mountain Library. Paper cards will be provided for you to fill out the identity and care instructions for the plants you are swapping. Maricopa County Master Gardeners will be conducting planting demonstrations and providing propagation recommendations and tips to help you...
Join us the 2nd Sunday in April from 10 AM to 3 PM for a market experience that’s anything but average! Each event features a new theme with on-street entertainment, interactive art, themed activities, snacks, and drinks — plus plenty of fun for all ages. This month: Citizen Science! The outdoor market lines Mill Avenue...
April is Citizen Science Month! You can take part in science by helping monarch butterflies. Learn from the Southwest Monarch Study how to grow milkweed, report monarch sightings, and tag monarchs. This event is part of SciStarter's 2.5 Million Acts of Science for America 250 and is a part of Maricopa County Library District's America...
Landscape conversions can be daunting, but this class will teach you the basics of redesigning your landscape, whether you’re removing grass or simply planning a fresh look. With guidance from a landscape architect, learn how to design a beautiful, functional xeriscape landscape using low water use plants. This program is supported by the City of...
Citizen or community science is a way for the public to get involved in science by incorporating volunteers in different aspects of the research process. For years, the Arizona Game and Fish Department has relied on volunteers to help us carry out our mission to conserve Arizona's diverse wildlife resources. Since April is Citizen Science...
Your Garden, Your Way! We believe nature should be accessible to everyone. On Community Day pay what you can. Pay $5, $10, $15 or any amount that works for you. In return, your contribution nurtures the Garden’s research, conservation and protection of desert plants for generations to come. Join us each month: April 14: Photography for...
The Saguaro Initiatives are a set of research, conservation, and community-science programs led by Desert Botanical Garden to understand, protect, and restore saguaros across the Phoenix Valley and our changing desert. This talk will share what we are learning about saguaro genetics, health, survival, and resilience in the face of rising heat and drought, and...
Birds are visible, vocal sentinels that alert us to environmental harms through their declining numbers or their failure to thrive. In her book Feather Trails—A Journey of Discovery Among Endangered Birds, Sophie Osborn shares her personal experiences reintroducing endangered Peregrine Falcons, Hawaiian Crows, and California Condors to the wild. While immersing readers in the triumphs...
Learn about the April 24-27 City Nature Challenge and free smartphone apps that can help you identify plants, animals, and more, while helping contribute to science! Join Ranger Eric on an easy 0.4-mile walk on Lions Trail while we learn about the free iNaturalist app you can use to identify any living organism on the...
Learn practical strategies how to reduce outdoor water use—often the biggest portion of household consumption—through smart plant choices, soil improvement, microclimates, rain harvesting, container gardening and more. Leave with actionable tips to conserve water while maintaining a thriving desert garden. Attendees will come away with actionable steps to conserve water while cultivating beauty in their outdoor...
Learn about the April 24-27 City Nature Challenge and free smartphone apps that can help you identify plants, animals, and more, while helping contribute to science! Join Ranger Eric on a short, easy walk between the Nature Center and the Quail Trailhead while we learn about the free iNaturalist app you can use to identify...
How can we have a lush but water-wise garden in the middle of a densely populated city? Join us at the Environment and Natural Resources 2 Building (ENR2), a LEED Platinum certified structure to learn how to create your own urban oasis. Please note: this tour is given on Saturday mornings and we meet in...
Do you like observing nature? Then help science and make your observations count! The City Nature Challenge is a friendly worldwide competition among cities to see whose residents can spot and identify the most wildlife. Join Arizona Science Center on April 18 to learn how to use the iNaturalist app, sharpen your observation skills, and...
Catalina State Park has been beloved for decades by many but do you know how the park came to be? Explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today. Take a “behind the scenes” look at today’s operations and get a “sneak peek” at exciting new upgrades coming to...
Citizen or community science is a way for the public to get involved in science by incorporating volunteers in different aspects of the research process. For years, the Arizona Game and Fish Department has relied on volunteers to help us carry out our mission to conserve Arizona's diverse wildlife resources. Since April is Citizen Science...
Join us for an incredible evening with the Sonoran Speaker Series as we explore the fascinating world of "Wolves and Coyotes" on Tuesday, April 14th at 6 pm at the Valley of the Sun J. Wildlife Biologists Jeff Meyers and Cheyenne Towne from the Arizona Game and Fish Department will take you on a captivating...
Celebrate Earth Day by upcycling an old cassette tape. Materials will be provided. Registration is required for all participants and must be 18 or older.
Desert Defender volunteers needed! Join us in removing invasive species and reducing the wildfire risk in Maricopa County Regional Parks. Participants will learn to identify several invasive species, their phenology and characteristics, and how to remove these invasive plants effectively. Meet at the Nature Center. The goal is to remove invasive plants as a proactive...
Desert Defender volunteers needed! Join us in removing invasive species and reducing the wildfire risk in Maricopa County Regional Parks. Participants will learn to identify several invasive species, their phenology and characteristics, and how to remove these invasive plants effectively. Meet at the Nature Center. The goal is to remove invasive plants as a proactive...
This hands-on event features a variety of fun and meaningful projects—perfect for anyone who enjoys getting their hands dirty (or wearing gloves!). Earth Day – Desert Defenders Event at Estrella Mountain Regional Park Join us on this Earth Day at Estrella Mountain Regional Park on April 22, 2026, from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM. We’ll meet at the Nature Center parking lot....
Desert Defender volunteers needed! Join us in removing invasive species and reducing the wildfire risk in Maricopa County Regional Parks. Participants will learn to identify several invasive species, their phenology and characteristics, and how to remove these invasive plants effectively. Meet at the Area 4 Parking Lot. The goal is to remove invasive plants as...
IBA Trip Important Bird Areas are designated for good reason, and the Upper Verde IBA is indeed special. We will have the rare opportunity to access the verdant confluence of Granite Creek and the Verde Headwaters through private property. We will walk along Stillman Lake below basalt cliffs to a collection of fascinating petroglyphs. Birds...
This trip features the Keynote Speakers Melissa Fratello & Steven Prager and premier local guide, Lisa Grubbs. The Page Springs area is a favorite hangout for birds and birders alike. This trip will take you to one of the locals’ favorite hot spots on the banks of Oak Creek. Bubbling Ponds has been a project...
Stop by an information table where Ranger Derik will teach you how to use your phone to identify and document your nature findings to help the scientific community. Ranger Derik will host a drop-in information table to get you on your way to becoming a Citizen Scientist using the free iNaturalist app that identifies and...
Learn about birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy to moderate guided hike with Ranger Eric while participating in the City Nature Challenge! Join Ranger Eric to look for and learn about resident and migratory birds of the Sonoran Desert on this easy to moderate walk. We will meet at the Nature Center first and...
Join Ranger Nikki on an easy to moderate hike to use your phone to document biodiversity in the park for the City Nature Challenge global Citizen Science competition that runs April 24-27. The City Nature Challenge is a global competition between cities to document biodiversity in regions around the world, taking place this year...
We will start the day at Red Rock State Park, getting in before the park opens with Tori Marshall, Ranger. Tori will lead us in about a 4 hour program including an introductory movie about cleaning up that area of Oak Creek and possibly meeting Moonlight, the Owl. We will then head off to the...
Explore Northern Arizona’s Anderson Mesa with Wildlife Biologist and local birder, Brooks Hart. In addition, you will have Jennie MacFarland, Director of Bird Conservation and a coordinator for Arizona IBA’s with you. Anderson Mesa is an Important Bird Area (IBA) comprising various habitat types, and supports coniferous and deciduous trees, pinyon pine & juniper dotted...
Help document biodiversity of a scenic, under-visited part of the park while participating in the City Nature Challenge with Ranger Eric! The option to do a short vs. a longer hike will be available. Join Ranger Eric for a hike around the scenic southern end of the San Tan Mountain Regional Park around the Malpais...
What makes the Old Main building so important? It’s the first building on the University of Arizona campus and has been a place of education and learning for over 130 years. But it’s also the site of beautiful and water-wise landscaping, combining the best of desert and adapted trees and plants with water conservation practices...
Join Ranger Nikki on a moderate hike and use your phone to document biodiversity in the park for the City Nature Challenge global Citizen Science competition that runs April 24-27. The City Nature Challenge is a global competition between cities to document biodiversity in regions around the world, taking place this year April 24-27. This...
Stop by an information table where Ranger Kevin will teach you how to use your phone to identify and document your nature findings to help the scientific community. Ranger Kevin hosts a drop-in information table to get you on your way to becoming a Citizen Scientist using the free iNaturalist app that identifies and documents...
Join Ranger Kevin to learn about and document biodiversity in the park for the City Nature Challenge global Citizen Science competition that runs April 24-27th. The City Nature Challenge is a global competition between cities to document biodiversity in regions around the world, taking place April 24-27th. Ranger Kevin will lead a hike with stops...
Your washing machine, shower, bathroom sink, and bathtub can be a consistent source of greywater irrigation for high water use plants in your landscape like food producing trees and shrubs. Learn how to tap into these resources to help support your landscape and hydro-local living! This class meets the requirement for Tucson Water's greywater rebate and...
The Avian and Wildlife Protection Program at APS will be holding a fishing line clean-up at Lake Pleasant. Please join us as we make the shoreline a safer place for all wildlife. The Avian and Wildlife Protection Program at APS will be holding a fishing line clean-up at Lake Pleasant. Please join us as we...
Develop water harvesting skills with this virtual Sustainable Desert Living series class from Watershed Management Group. Our instructor will teach you best practices for passive rainwater harvesting (basins) and active rainwater harvesting (tanks). Learn how to save water while creating a rainwater-sustained oasis at your home. This class does NOT qualify you for any rainwater harvesting rebate.
Join Wellington “Duke” Reiter, Executive Director of ASU’s University City Exchange and Ten Across in a conversation with Jesse Keenan about his recently published book North: The Future of Post-Climate America. In it Keenan argues that America is entering a new era marked by shifts in population that will transform everything from the physical landscape of cities to...
Stop by an information table where Ranger Kevin will teach you how to use your phone to identify and document your nature findings to help the scientific community. Let’s get you on your way to becoming a Citizen Scientist using the free iNaturalist app that identifies and documents nature photos that you take with your...
Sitting in the Highlands Center ramada while the wind rustles through the ponderosa pine needles and a robin chirps, there is a moment of silent contemplation. Natural history is complicated – personal and universal at the same time. Our Natural History book club met beginning in 2021 and the discussions occasionally resulted in these special...
Presented by Tempe Water Conservation. Learn the basics of designing a residential sprinkler and drip irrigation system that maximizes your watering efficiency.
Join us for WMG’s 9th Annual Tanque Verde Flow and Feast, an annual celebration of our River Run Network program. This free, family-friendly event features a self-led creek walk, a catered dinner from Tumerico with vegan and vegetarian options, fun nature-based activities to do along the creek, and a special dinner show: Arundo the Musical! Please register...
Join us for a special morning of seed planting, learning, and connecting at Tonatierra Community Garden! ASU student leader and Diné educator, Chandlee Begay, will guide us in planting a traditional Zuni waffle garden with seeds for amaranth, tepary beans, gourds, and sunflowers. Attendees will also learn about the Xinachtli Seed Library and the importance of Indigenous...