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Tucson Audubon Society
Institute of Desert Ecology
40th Annual!
April 15-18, 2010

The 2008 Institute concludes with a wrap up talk. Photo courtesy Cecil Schwalbe.
Photos from 2008 Institute	Read about past Institutes Published Articles

“I had no idea that the Institute would provide me with so much new information and experiences. I thought everything was great.”

Next Institute is April 15-18, 2010 - view the brochure

New! Professional Development Credit (40 hours) available for Tucson Unified School District teachers.

To register:
Print and fill out this form, then mail it in: Printable 2010 Registration Form
Two payment methods below

1. Pay online as a Tucson Audubon Society Member or Non-member
   ($425 for Tucson Audubon members and $460 for non-members).
2. Send payment with printable registration form

Questions? Contact Matt Brooks at (520) 622-2230

“A great experience. Integrated studies and friendships between the staff were truly special. The staff and volunteers were very accommodating and always smiling.”

The details
We take great pride in the fact that the annual Desert Institute is approaching its fourth decade. Since that first Institute, over 2,000 individuals have come together to learn and share experiences, connecting with the natural environment in ways both intimate and profound. The 38th annual Institute was no exception, filled with "warmth, humor, brainwaves and brilliance." 

Dates: April 15-18, 2010

Location: The site of the Desert Institute is Catalina State Park. The spectacular northwest face of the Santa Catalina Mountains forms the backdrop for this 5,500 acre desert park located just north of Tucson at elevations ranging from 2,650 to 3,000 feet. Desert washes, canyons and bajadas contain a vast array of desert plants and wildlife. The park is a popular birding area and has a bird list of over 150 species seen within its borders. Our camping area is comfortably shaded by mesquite trees, adjacent to undisturbed desert washes, canyons, hillsides and rich riparian areas, and secluded from other campgrounds. Days should be sunny and hot, but expect chilly nights and evenings.

“Thanks for the experience. I loved the spirit, content, people, peace, time and opportunity.”

Program: Our study focuses on Sonoran Desert ecosystems with emphasis on relationships between plants, animals and the physical characteristics of the desert rather than on classification and identification. Our days start early and optional activities such as owling, blacklighting for insects, and star talks extend into the evening hours. Participants and faculty interact in small groups during the first three days. On Sunday, a final hike ties together the experiences of earlier sessions for the entire group.

Preliminary Schedule for 2010

Possible Optional Workshops

Accommodations & Meals: Participants furnish their own tents or campers. Water is available but there are no electrical or water hookups. To avoid disrupting the peaceful surroundings, operation of generators is not permitted. Restrooms and showers are available at the group camping site, and the park has holding tank disposal facilities. Ample, tasty meals are catered from an on-site unit, with adequate choices to accommodate vegetarians. Before early field sessions, a nutritious pre-breakfast snack is available.

Fee & Registration: Fee & Registration: $460 per person ($425 for Tucson Audubon Members). Fee includes all meals, camping and park entrance fees, and expert instruction. A non-refundable deposit of $100 per person must accompany the registration form. The remaining balance ($360 for non-members; $325 for members) is due by March 6, 2010.

Participants: Tucson Audubon membership is not required, but membership entitles you to a discounted price! Participants should be at least 18 years of age and in good health. Anyone with an interest in natural history and desert ecology can participate. No pets are allowed.

Faculty: Faculty members are experienced at teaching students with different knowledge levels. All faculty members have been teaching at the Institute for at least a decade, and some for much longer. Click on each name below to learn more about the instructors and what they will teach at IDE.

“I thoroughly enjoyed all the instructors – highest quality.”

University Credit: One unit of University of Arizona credit is offered through RNR 497B/597B—Desert Ecosystems, for an additional fee. The University of Arizona is an EEO-AA Employer.

Scholarships: Limited scholarship funds are available. Contact the Institute Director for more information. Donations are welcomed and are tax deductible.
Note to teachers: 40 hours of Professional Development Credit is available for participants who teach within the Tucson Unified School District (TUSD).

 Questions? Contact Matt Brooks at (520) 622-2230

Bird questions? Check Birding | General questions? Contact: Tucson Audubon Society | Webmaster: Email

This page was updated on 05/28/08