DATE: May 1 - 31 TIME: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm PRICE: Free
Do you love saguaros? Help us learn more about them!
Desert Botanical Garden has launched a census of saguaro cactus growing in metro Phoenix to better understand the health and adaption of the population. Help us count saguaros in your neighborhood.
This May, the community can help the Garden document urban saguaros (Carnegiea gigantea) in the Valley through iNaturalist. Participants can share their observations on the app under the Saguaro Census project. An observation can include photos, a location and notes about the general health of the saguaro.
Why?
This is the first step to generate a database to monitor the saguaro population in the Valley, learn more about their health and research the effects climate change might have on them.
More about the project:
The Saguaro Census is part of a larger project led by Tania Hernandez, New World Succulents Research Scientist. The project seeks to understand the biology, distribution and genetics of the urban saguaro population by comparing them with their relatives growing in the wild. The project will also be used to develop tools to understand and preserve endangered cactus species in the Southwest with substantial community involvement.The Saguaro Census is in collaboration with the Metro Phoenix EcoFlora and the Save Our Saguaros project, led by Girl Scout Gold Award recipient Ella Werre.
LIGHT BLOOM by HYBYCOZO is a limited-time exhibit where nature and light converge. This mesmerizing display invites you to explore the Garden transformed by stunning geometric light installations that illuminate the beauty of the desert landscape in a new way.
The Leaf Connection showcases the vibrant plant diversity of the Phoenix metro area through an intricate display of hand-made, ceramic leaves at Webster Center. With more than 1,000 ceramic pieces, each leaf’s design is influenced by observations community scientists record on iNaturalist, an established online platform where nature lovers share information on biodiversity.
Cactus Clubhouse is a fun and immersive nature play space for kids 12 and younger. Kids can engage in activities that spark their curiosity for nature and encourage exploration.
Become a member and get unlimited access all year!
The Garden’s Summer Camps are back! Register your child to one of three drop-off camps that will encourage the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists and environmental scientists.
ADVANCE TICKET RESERVATIONS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR MEMBERS AND GENERAL PUBLIC The Cactus Clubhouse will be closed 11/16 and 11/17, but join us on the PPSD Trail for an activity from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.