Desert Awareness Committee

🌵🍃 What's going on with all those tree pods! 🌵🍃
Hey Desert Dwellers! It's that magical time of year when the trees of the Sonoran Desert are bursting with delicious and nutritious pods. The Ironwood, Mesquite, and Palo Verde trees have been harvested throughout history for their high-protein, nutritious food.
Harvesting these pods requires knowledge, patience, and a good pair of gloves. Knowing which pods are safe, how much to harvest, and when to harvest are vital keys to success. Here are some helpful hints for harvesting our wonderful Sonoran Desert tree pods:
Mesquite Tree
• Velvet Mesquite is the most common tree in our area. The pods form around late June to early July before the high humidity of the monsoon season.
• Harvest Tips: Always pick pods from the tree, not the ground—fungus-free is the way to be! Look for brown, dry seeds when they're ready. Taste-test a pod from each tree to find the sweetest ones (each tree has its own flavor personality!).
• Drying: Lay the harvested pods out in the sun for a few days (watch out for critters with a sweet tooth). You can also use an oven to dry.
Ironwood Tree
• Ironwood flowers and pods are edible. By late June or early July, the pods turn tan or brown and are ready to harvest. The flowers are delicious in a salad.
• Harvest Tips: Always pick pods from the tree to avoid any ground fungus or mold. Taste each tree. Green pods can be blanched and enjoyed, but tan beans have a delightful nutty flavor.
Palo Verde
• Foothills Palo Verde is the most common Palo Verde in our area. The green pods can be popped open like edamame, and the flowers are perfect for salads.
• Harvest Window: Late spring to early summer when pods are still green or light tan and green inside. Brown pods are still edible but a bit tougher to tackle.
Pod-Picking Pointers:
• No Ground Pods: Keep it clean and safe by picking pods from the tree.
• Flavor First: Taste each tree to find the yummiest pods.
• Glove Up: Protect your hands from sharp thorns with heavy-duty gloves.
• Protein Power: These pods are packed with protein and are part of the legume family.
• Harvest Safety: If you are new to desert harvesting, join an experienced person or group. Desert delicacies are amazing, but there are some “tricks of the trade” that will keep you safe.
Let's celebrate the season by gathering these desert treasures and continuing the traditions of the past. Happy harvesting, everyone!

What is that beautiful tree with purple flowers!!! It’s the Ironwood Tree!
Hey friends! Have you ever come across the Ironwood tree while exploring the Sonoran Desert? This incredible tree, scientifically known as Olneya tesota, is truly a desert gem with a fascinating story to tell. Let's dive into some amazing facts and history about this resilient tree!
The Ironwood tree stands out with its grayish bark and dense, twisting branches that form a broad canopy. Its leaves are pinnate, consisting of multiple small leaflets that provide a delicate, feathery look. In the spring, it blooms with clusters of pale lavender, adding a splash of color to the arid landscape. These flowers eventually give way to seed pods, which ripen in the summer.
Age & Growth: Ironwood trees can live for over 1,500 years! They grow slowly, which makes their wood incredibly dense and heavy.
Habitat: These trees are primarily found in the Sonoran Desert, thriving in the harsh conditions with their deep roots and hardy nature.
Ecological Role: Ironwood trees are considered "nurse plants" because they provide shade and protection for young seedlings of other species, helping to foster biodiversity in the desert.
History
• Cultural Significance: Indigenous peoples of the Sonoran Desert, including the Tohono O'odham and the Seri, have long revered the Ironwood tree. They used its wood for tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects due to its durability.
• Conservation Status: Due to its slow growth and the impact of human activity, the Ironwood tree is considered a keystone species that needs protection to maintain the health of the desert ecosystem.
• Woodworking: The dense wood of the Ironwood tree is highly valued for carving and making durable items like furniture and crafts. Its strength and beauty make it a favorite among artisans.
• Traditional Medicine: Various parts of the tree have been used in traditional medicine by native tribes to treat ailments ranging from digestive issues to skin problems.
You can eat the nuts out of the pods!!
The seeds of the Ironwood tree are edible and were traditionally ground into flour by indigenous peoples. They can be roasted and have a nutty flavor, making them a unique addition to the diet. Gather ripe pods, blanch, dry, shell, freeze or/and roast seeds. Use them whole or ground in dishes. Healthy and yummy!
Don’t forget the critters! The flowers, seeds, and pods of the Ironwood tree are important food sources for desert wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals.
Next time you're hiking through the Arizona Sonoran Desert, take a moment to appreciate the Ironwood tree. It's not just a tree; it's a living testament to the desert's resilience and a crucial part of its ecosystem.

Join us for an enriching,educational and tasty experience at our upcoming event, "Walk, Talk, & Taste in the Park," happening on Saturday, April 13th, from 8am to 12pm.
Ever pondered the possibilities of sustainable living in the desert? This event offers a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of desert ecology and traditional knowledge. Knowledgeable guides will help you learn to identify edible plants and understand the principles of responsible harvesting.
Expand your culinary horizons as you sample a variety of dishes from our exclusive "Our Tastes of the Desert" recipe book. Each bite offers a taste of history and culture, showcasing the rich diversity of flavors that our desert landscape has to offer.
Our event is designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. Our passionate volunteers are eager to share their expertise and insights.
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, "Walk, Talk, & Taste in the Park" promises an educational and tasty experience like no other. Join us as we explore the wonders of the desert landscape.

This is the final tour until October!
🌵 Join us at Desert Awareness Park for our FREE educational tour this Saturday, April 6th!
📅 When: First Saturday of the month, from November through April
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Where: Desert Awareness Park, Cave Creek, Arizona
Embark on a captivating journey to explore the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert with us on a 90-minute tour! Discover fascinating facts about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment.
Uncover the incredible ways our desert flora contributes to medicinal practices, serves as a source of food and shelter, and sustains the diverse array of desert animals.
This presents a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with nature, gain profound insights into the desert ecosystem, and enjoy a delightful morning outdoors. Remember to dress comfortably, wear appropriate hiking shoes, and bring sunscreen and water to stay refreshed in the desert climate.
Don't miss out! This is our last tour until October, so seize the chance to experience the wonders of the desert before the season ends.
We're thrilled to welcome you there! 🌞
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🌵 Join us as the Desert Awareness Committee proudly presents the Medicinal Plants class, a two-part series celebrating 50 YEARS of honoring the desert's healing bounty!
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
📅 Tuesday, March 19: Immerse yourself in the knowledge of 12 desert plants cherished by native cultures for centuries. Craft medicine plant identification cards.
📅 Thursday, March 21: Engage in hands-on exploration as we dive into various preparation methods for home and wilderness application. Compare tinctures, ointments, and emollients, and create your own topical ointment.
🌱 Discover the profound healing potential of desert plants with our immersive workshop!
🌿 Delve into ancient wisdom as we explore 12 desert plants renowned for their medicinal properties.
🔬 Learn practical preparation techniques for effective home and wilderness use.
* Compare herbal extracts, from potent tinctures to soothing ointments and nourishing emollients.
* Craft your own topical ointment under expert guidance.
🗓 Workshop Dates & Times: March 19th & 21st, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: The Holland Center
💰 Workshop Cost: $35 for both days - Reserve your spot now! Limited spaces available. (Hurry, last year's workshop sold out fast!)
Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your connection with nature's healing gifts. Sign up today! 🌿✨

Join us at Desert Awareness Park for our FREE educational tour this Saturday, February 3!
📅 When: First Saturday of the month, from November through April
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Where: Desert Awareness Park, Cave Creek
Arizona Embark on a journey to explore the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert with us on a 90-minute tour!
Discover fascinating facts about the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment.
Uncover the incredible ways our desert flora contributes to medicinal practices, serves as a source of food and shelter, and sustains the diverse array of desert animals.
This presents a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with nature, gain profound insights into the desert ecosystem, and enjoy a delightful morning outdoors.
Remember to dress comfortably, wear appropriate hiking shoes, and bring sunscreen and water to stay refreshed in the desert climate. We're excited to welcome you there!

🌵 Join us at Desert Awareness Park for our FREE tours starting this Saturday, December 2!
📅 When: First Saturday of the month, from November through April
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Where: Desert Awareness Park, Cave Creek, Arizona
Discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with us on a 90-minute tour! 🦎
Learn about the various types of plants and animals that call the desert home.
Explore how our desert flora provides medicinal uses, food, shelter, and supports desert animals.
This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, gain a deeper understanding of the desert ecosystem, and have a fun morning outdoors. Don't forget to wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen and water to stay comfortable in the desert climate. We can't wait to see you there! 🌞

🌵 Join us at Desert Awareness Park for our FREE tours starting this Saturday, November 4! 🚶
📅 When: First Saturday of the month, from November through April
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
📍 Where: Desert Awareness Park, Cave Creek, Arizona
Discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert with us on a 90-minute tour! 🦎
Learn about the various types of plants and animals that call the desert home.
Explore how our desert flora provides medicinal uses, food, shelter, and supports desert animals.
This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, gain a deeper understanding of the desert ecosystem, and have a fun morning outdoors. Don't forget to wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen and water to stay comfortable in the desert climate. We can't wait to see you there! 🌞

🌵 Join us for a Delightful Desert Experience at the Prickly Pear Festival! 🌵
🗓️ Date: Saturday, October 28, 2023
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Holland Center, 34250 N, 60th St., Bldg. B, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
The Desert Awareness Committee is thrilled to present the Prickly Pear Festival, an event that promises fun for the whole family! 🌞👨👩👧👦
This year's festival is packed with exciting activities: 🎨 Art exhibits that capture the beauty of the desert 🌵 Prickly pear demonstrations to amaze and educate 🍽️ Tastings of the nutritious and delicious desert cactus 📚 Informative seminars to expand your knowledge
Did you know that prickly pear isn't just a favorite of Javelinas? Discover the versatility of this desert gem with delicious recipes like Bernadine McCollum's Prickly Pear Jelly!
🍯 Prickly Pear Jelly Recipe: 🔸 1 package Sure-Jel (or your favorite fruit pectin) 🔸 2 ½ cups prickly pear juice 🔸 3 ½ cups sugar 🔸 3 tbsp lemon or lime juice
Instructions:
1. Combine pectin and juice in a stainless pot and bring to a fast boil.
2. Add lemon juice and sugar, bringing the mixture to a hard boil.
3. Boil to 220 degrees or for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Remove from heat and skim off foam.
5. Pour into sterilized jars, wiping off rims with a sterile cloth.
6. Seal and process in a hot water bath for 15 minutes.
7. Cool and enjoy this desert delicacy!
Looking for more delightful desert recipes? Don't forget to pick up your very own copy of "Our Tastes of the Desert" cookbook, available for purchase at the festival and The Holland Center. 📖🌵
We can't wait to see you there! Join us for a day of desert discovery and family fun at the Prickly Pear Festival. 🌵👨👩👧👦💫

Come check out the wonderful Sonoran Desert!

🌵 Join us for an exciting adventure into the heart of the Sonoran Desert! 🌵
Discover the beauty and wonders of the desert at Desert Awareness Park Tours.
📅 When: First Saturday of the month, November through April
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Where: Desert Awareness Park, Cave Creek, Arizona
Best of all, this is a FREE tour!
Please remember to wear closed-toe shoes appropriate for the desert landscape.
During this 90-minute guided tour, you'll have the opportunity to:
Learn about the fascinating desert plants and their unique adaptations. 🐦 Observe the diverse wildlife that calls this arid landscape home. Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Sonoran Desert. Expand your knowledge of the delicate desert ecosystem.
Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about the desert and will share their expertise to make this experience informative and fun for all ages.
Don't miss this chance to connect with nature, expand your horizons, and gain a deeper appreciation for the desert's remarkable beauty.
Make sure to mark your calendars and invite your friends and family to join you on this unforgettable journey into the heart of the desert.
See you there!

🌵 Join us for an exciting adventure into the heart of the Sonoran Desert! 🌵
Discover the beauty and wonders of the desert at Desert Awareness Park Tours.
📅 When: First Saturday of the month, November through April
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Where: Desert Awareness Park, Cave Creek, Arizona
Best of all, this is a FREE tour!
Please remember to wear closed-toe shoes appropriate for the desert landscape.
During this 90-minute guided tour, you'll have the opportunity to:
Learn about the fascinating desert plants and their unique adaptations. 🐦 Observe the diverse wildlife that calls this arid landscape home. Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Sonoran Desert. Expand your knowledge of the delicate desert ecosystem.
Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about the desert and will share their expertise to make this experience informative and fun for all ages.
Don't miss this chance to connect with nature, expand your horizons, and gain a deeper appreciation for the desert's remarkable beauty.
Make sure to mark your calendars and invite your friends and family to join you on this unforgettable journey into the heart of the desert.
See you there!

Prickly Pear Fest - Get ready to celebrate the desert's finest!
🗓 Saturday, Oct 28, 2023
Location: Holland Center
Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
Taste the Magic: Indulge in mouthwatering prickly pear treats, from jams and jellies to refreshing beverages. Experience the desert's exquisite flavors like never before!

Artistry in Bloom: See some wonderful desert art

Educational Seminars: Seminars begin at 10 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:30 AM, and 12:15 PM, so make sure to mark your calendar and come prepared to expand your knowledge!

Live Demos: Watch skilled chefs whip up prickly pear delights right before your eyes! From prickly pear salsa to prickly pear desserts, you'll get some fantastic culinary inspiration.

Mark your calendar for this unforgettable day! This is an event you won't want to miss! Bring your friends and family, and let's savor the flavors of the desert together. See you there!

Hey there, friends! Fall is a wonderful time of year to enjoy our Sonoran Desert. I would like to take a moment to share the awe-inspiring, incredible relationship between plants and wildlife, emphasizing the vital importance of the symbiotic connection in the desert biome.

Did you know the Sonoran Desert is one of the most biologically diverse deserts in the world, spanning pars of California, Arizona, and Mexico? Protecting and preserving the desert plant and wildlife biome is vital.

Desert Plants, like the Saguaro Cacti and Creosote Bush, have adapted to conserve water and provide shelter and sustenance to a wide array of wildlife. The Gila Woodpecker and Gilded Flickers build nesting cavities called “Boots” in the Saguaro and desert rodents like pack rates find refuge among their spines. The Creosote Bush provides shelter, food, and shade for all desert wildlife.

From the smallest insects to the apex predators like the desert coyote, the Sonoran Desert boasts complex food chains and webs. Each species, no matter how small, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. The desert comes alive after dark with the symphony of coyotes howling, owls hooting, and kangaroo rats hopping about, all interconnected in the intricate web of life.

Pollinator diversity is a vital aspect of our wonderful desert. The blooming season after rate rainfall is a critical period for many Sonoran Desert plants. Over 200 species of bees and numerous butterflies are vital pollinators, ensuring the reproduction of the unique desert wildflowers.

Desert plants and animals must survive in the harsh desert climates through adaptations. The creosote bush for example, produces chemicals in their leaves that inhibit the growth of nearby plants, a survival strategy known as allelopathy. Desert animals have developed various strategies to minimize water loss. Some like the Kangaroo Rat and the Kit Fox, can obtain all the moisture they need from their diet, while others, like the desert tortoise, store water in their bodies for a year.

The Sonoran Desert demonstrates remarkable resilience and interconnectedness of life in extreme conditions. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance that exists in this unique ecosystem and the importance of making every effort to preserve and protect our desert.

The next time you visit our beautiful desert, take a moment to appreciate the profound significance of the relationship between its distinctive plant life and the incredible wildlife that call it home. Let’s join hands to protect and preserve this remarkable biome for generations to come!

Unlocking the treasures of the Mesquite Tree Sap

The Mesquite tree, a resilient denizen of the Sonoran Desert, has concealed a secret treasure for centuries. The Mesquite tree has many uses including food, medicine, and for building. In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the Mesquite tree also harbors a hidden gem-its sap, a natural wonder with a rich history of diverse uses.
Soothing Sore Throats: For generations, indigenous communities, like the pima Indians, have turned to Mesquite tree sap as a soothing remedy for sore throats. Its soothing and healing properties provided welcome relief from the dry desert air, offering comfort in times of discomfort.
Settling Stomach Ailments: Mesquites sap’s gentle yet effective qualities made it a trusted ally for alleviating stomach ailments. Ancient desert dwellers knew that this natural elixir could provide relief when digestive troubles struck, offering a taste of relief in the harsh desert environment.
Natural Hair Dye: Intriguingly, Mesquite tree sap became more than a remedy; it transformed into a tool for self-expression. The Pima Indians ingeniously used it to create natural hair dye, infusing their locks with the earthy tones that celebrated their connection to the desert landscape.
Ornate Pottery Decoration: The Mesquite tree’s sap wasn’t confined to medicine and personal adornment; it also found its way into the world of art. Skilled artisans utilized this adhesive sap to embellish their pottery, adorning clay vessels with intricate designs that told stories of the desert life and culture.
Harvesting Season: Mesquite sap, lovingly referred to as “mesquite gum” is most abundant during the sweltering summer months when the desert’s heat awakens its life-giving essence. This annual harvest was a scared tradition amount the desert-dwelling tribes.
A Glimpse into the Past: Picture yourself walking through ancient Sonoran Desert villages during the sap’s summer harvest, where the Mesquite tree played an indispensable role in daily life. The Mesquite tree, with its versatile sap, emerges as a symbol of harmony between humanity and nature. It represents an understanding of the desert’s offerings and the wisdom of utilizing its gifts to not only survive but thrive in one of the Earth’s most challenging environments.

🔥 Heatwave Alert: Agave Update!
Hey there, desert enthusiasts! Just wanted to share some insights on why you might have noticed our beloved agave plants drooping a bit more than usual in this scorching Arizona heatwave.
Hotter Than Hot: The desert sun is no joke, and these extreme temperatures are putting our resilient agaves to the test. With the mercury soaring, these plants are losing moisture through their leaves at a rapid pace, causing them to droop as a survival mechanism to conserve water. They're basically saying, "Hold on, we need to conserve our hydration!"
Water Woes: Agave plants are accustomed to thriving in arid conditions, but when the heat becomes excessive, even their efficient water-saving strategies can struggle to keep up. Their shallow root systems make it challenging for them to tap into deeper water sources, and the intense heat can cause the soil to dry out much faster.
Midday Meltdown: Agaves are known for their ability to tolerate heat, but everyone has their limits. During the hottest parts of the day, they might droop to reduce their exposure to direct sunlight, helping to prevent excessive water loss. If you spot your agave friends looking a bit under the weather around noon, don't worry too much – they're just taking a siesta to cope with the heat.
Stay Hydrated: Just like us, agaves need proper hydration to stay healthy. If you're seeing your agaves drooping more than you'd like, consider giving them a deep, thorough watering early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This will help replenish the moisture lost during the day and provide some relief from the heat stress.
Of course, there can be other factors causing agave drooping, such as soil conditions, pests, or diseases. However, during these hot temperatures, it's highly likely that the heat is the primary culprit. Let's keep an eye out for any signs of distress and give our agave pals the care they need to flourish in this challenging weather. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and keep rocking that desert life!

It’s almost Prickly Pear tuna harvesting time! Discover the Amazing Prickly Pear Cactus: Health Benefits, Harvesting Tips & Delicious Tuna Fruit!
Hey friends! Today, I want to share with you the wonders of the Prickly Pear Cactus, also known as Opuntia. This unique and beautiful plant not only adds a touch of desert beauty to the landscape but also offers incredible health benefits!
Did you know that the fruit of the Prickly Pear Cactus fruit is called "tuna"? It may sound surprising, but this vibrant and succulent fruit is a real treat for your taste buds! Tuna comes in various colors like red, purple, and yellow, and it's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Health Benefits of Tuna (Prickly Pear Fruit)
✅ Cholesterol Management: Tuna is rich in fiber, particularly pectin, which has been linked to lowering LDL cholesterol levels. Including this fruit in your diet may contribute to a heart-healthy lifestyle.
✅ Boosts Immunity: With its high vitamin C content, tuna can give your immune system a natural boost, helping you stay healthy and ward off infections.
✅ Hydration and Electrolyte Balance: Tuna is juicy and water-rich, making it a refreshing snack that helps keep you hydrated and maintains proper electrolyte balance in the body.
✅ Weight Management: The fiber in tuna contributes to a feeling of fullness, aiding in appetite control and weight management efforts.
✅ Supports Skin Health: The presence of antioxidants in tuna can promote radiant and youthful-looking skin.
Harvesting this marvelous cactus requires a bit of caution, but it's totally worth the effort! Follow these steps to do it safely:
1️⃣ Choose the Right Time: The tuna should be harvested from the Englemann Prickly Pear and be a dark, magenta color. Harvest during the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, and the cactus is less stressed. Only harvest about 1/3 of the tuna to preserve the health of the cactus and save important food for desert creatures.
2️⃣ Dress Appropriately: Wear thick gloves, long sleeves, and pants to protect yourself from the sharp spines.
3️⃣ Select Ripe Fruits: Look for deep-colored, plump fruits that are easily detached from the pad.
4️⃣ Use Tongs or Tongs: To avoid touching the spines directly, use tongs or pliers to pick the fruits or pads.
5️⃣ Removal of Spines: There are several options to removing the spines and glochids. After harvesting, carefully remove the spines from the pads using a knife, by burning them off, vegetable peeler, or colander(shaking).
Prickly Pear fruit can be frozen for processing at a later time with a juicer or by using a juicer/steamer. While the process seems a bit labor intensive, the end result is a delicious and healthy desert food. Juice can be used for jellies, juices and drinks, or breads, cakes, and sauces. See some fun recipes in “Our Tastes the Desert” book written by the Desert Awareness Committee available for purchase at the Holland Center.
Have you tried the delicious tuna fruit before, or do you have any other unique Prickly Pear cactus experiences to share? Comment below and let's exchange our delicious desert food tales!

Happy Holidays and warm wishes to all from the Desert Awareness Committee! Our annual Christmas Potluck was filled with friends,food, and festivities 🎄.

Saturday, October 1, 2022

Come to our new Desert Awareness Park Tours!

*First Saturday of the month October-April at the Desert Awareness Park in Cave Creek, Arizona
*10am-12pm
*Tours will be 10am-11am and 11am-12pm-walks last 50-60 minutes
*Join us for a leisurely stroll through a native desert park with a Desert Awareness Naturalist. Learn the plants of the Sonoran desert upland and how they survive. We will share the Saguaro story, explore the Tree of Life, and help you gain an understand of the prehistoric peoples.
Come join this educational and fascinating tour of our desert.
Register at www.hollandcenter.org