Invasion, Ignition, and Restoration: Science, Art, and Education for Sonoran Desert Resilience
Funded by a TRIF WEES AIR Annual Resilience Theme (AART) award, this project aims to promote public awareness around the spread of invasive plant species in the Sonoran Desert region. These efforts are being carried out by a dynamic partnership of scientists, academics, artists, educators, and community leaders and seek to promote increased public understanding around this issue through a diverse series of events, projects, educational opportunities, and initiatives throughout Pima County during the 25/26 academic year. This work aims not only to educate about the threats that these invasive plants pose, including increased risk of wildfires, but to shine a light on local restoration efforts and the possibilities of public action. With a focus on workforce development and youth education, this project aims to bring more people into the larger effort to promote the restoration and resilience of our precious desert ecosystem.
Partner Institutions and Organizations:
University of Arizona (various departments)
Center for Digital Humanities
Tohono O’odham Community College
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Tumamoc Desert Laboratory
MOCA Tucson
Odyssey Storytelling
Planned Events and Activities:
Production of two 360˙ workforce development videos
Creation and distribution of education kits for Pima County classrooms
Community board game and awareness events
Odyssey Storytelling Event
Art, film, and design competitions
Public screening and reception event
and additional events in the planning stages
LEARN MORE about buffelgrass, stinknet and other invasives in the Sonoran Desert.
LEARN MORE and APPLY for our Art, Filmmaking, or Science Communication grant opportunities.