Buy Experience Hassayampa River Preserve 11-12-09

Visit a special stretch of streamside habitat being protected and restored at The Nature Conservancy's Hassayampa River Preserve near Wickenburg. The Hassayampa River flows almost 100 miles through the desert with nearly the entire length running underground. However, at this site the water flows crystal clear above ground year-round, creating spectacular habitat for a myriad of plant and animal species. This walking tour features interpretation of the plants and animals we encounter and the interesting relationships between them. Participants will learn about one of the rarest forest types in North America, the cottonwood willow forest, found at this site. Included on the walk are a true mesquite bosque and Palm Lake, a rare oasis in the desert. This easy walking tour is one and a half miles long on sandy, level trails and concludes with a delicious picnic lunch near the preserve's historic visitor center, built in the 1860s. Picnic lunch, snacks, bottled water, informational materials and a contribution to The Nature Conservancy are included. Limit 20.
Thursday / November 12 / 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (Roundtrip from the Garden)