Our March 2008 activities and events include:

Mar. 1, Saturday
ABDNHA Native Plant Show & Sale
9 a.m to 4 p.m.

A display of more than 70 labeled native plants, sale of a wide variety of native plants (available in one gallon and larger), wildflower walks, classes, and free expert advice on gardening with native plants, are just part of this great day for anyone with a desert garden.

Partial list of plants for sale: ocotillo (1 gallon and 5 gallon), chuparosa, desert lavender, apricot mallow, penstemon (several varieties), fairy duster, desert agave, yucca (our lord's candle), blue palo verde trees, variety of cacti, brittlebush, milkweed, desert marigold, scarlet sage, ironwood trees, palm trees.

9:00-2:00 p.m.
Native Plant Display
by Marge Hatcher

noon
Solar Cooking Demonstration
with Eleanor Shimeall

9:00-10:45 a.m. and 1:00-2:45 p.m.
Native Plant Walks
Leader: Linda King

Sign up for one of two walks led by Volunteer Naturalist Linda King for an introduction to the local native flora. Easy walking. No charge, space is limited; call the Nature Center for reservations.

10:00-noon
Composting Class

Ever wondered how to make compost? Curious about composting with worms? Eager to recycle kitchen scraps and yard trimmings into a nutrient-rich soil amendment for your garden? If so, then sign up for this two-hour hands-on workshop taught by a master composter from the Solana Center for Environmental Innovation. You'll learn everything you need to know to get started. Low-cost compost bins and worm bins will be available for residents of unincorporated San Diego County. No charge; call the Nature Center to reserve, space is limited.

1:00-2:30 p.m.
Basket-making using Native Plants
Instructor: Lorene Sisquoc, Cultural Traditions/Museum Curator, Sherman Indian Museum, Riverside, CA

The exquisite baskets of the Cahuilla are among the highest forms of the basket-making art, and in recent years the Cahuilla have experienced a revival in the tradition. Spend a most enjoyable afternoon with author and instructor, Lorene Sisquoc, as she shares her knowledge and experience in the use of native plants for basket making. She will provide a display of native plant uses and demonstrate coiled basketry using yucca, sumac, juncus and deer grass. Call the Nature Center to reserve. NM $20; M $15; V $13.

1:00-4:00 p.m.
Native Plants: Planting, Propagating and Growing
Instructor: Bob Linstead, Horticulturist, The Living Desert

Popular instructor Bob Linstead is a source of extensive knowledge about desert plants and their propagation. Don't miss this hands-on class where participants plants and take home several specimens. Learn about desert soils, see collection, cuttings and care of native desert plant gardens. Call the Nature Center for reservations. Class size is limited. NM $30; M $25; V $23.

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Mar. 3, Mon., 8:00 a.m.
Borrego Birders
Coordinator: Hal Cohen

Meet at Christmas Circle for announcement of location which varies monthly. All levels welcome.

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Mar. 4, Tue., 9 a.m. ABDNHA Volunteer Training Series:
Desert Bighorn Sheep
Speaker: Esther Rubin

Anza-Borrego Desert is one of the last refuges of the Peninsular bighorn sheep. Spend time with Esther Rubin learning about the bighorn sheep and their habitat.

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Mar. 6, Thurs., 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Weekly Beginning Bird Walk
Repeats Mar. 13, 20, 27
Leader: David Lasley

Learn to identify desert birds. Learn about bird behavior and nesting habits. Walk in and around Club Circle, a good birding area with level, easy terrain.

Meet at the south end of Marker, south of Tilting T opposite the entrance to Borrego Springs Resort. Bring binoculars, bird book, water, walking shoes. Dress for outdoors. Call the Nature Center for reservations. Non-members: $5 donation requested; Members and volunteers: no charge.

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Mar. 7, Fri., 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument/Southwestern Arizona Desert Slide Show Presented by Reena Deutsch

Enjoy a colorful slide show travelogue of a road trip through Southwestern Arizona during eight sizzling days in June 2007. Over five days, the speaker and a companion explored Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument during the peak of the saguaro cactus flower bloom. Flowers everywhere!

Find out if they ever found the elusive leaf-cutting ants. Did they see any organ pipe flowers that bloom for mere minutes during the dead of night? Which one suffered heat exhaustion while hiking on a 112 day?

The last days of the trip were cave days spent at Colossal Cave Mountain Park and Kartchner Caverns State Park. Other adventures and strange critters were encountered throughout the journey, and you will see or hear about them. Finally, it was back to San Diego after a beer and a gunfight at Tombstone. NM: $11; M: $ 9; V: $8.

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Mar. 8, Sat., 9:00 a.m. - noon
4WD Tour and Hike - South Palm Wash
Leader: Volunteer Naturalist Deborah Sperberg

This is a short 4-wheel-drive trip followed by an easy 1.5 mile round-trip hike through a beautiful and narrow slot canyon near Calcite Mine. We will be back in time for lunch.

Meet at the north side of Christmas Circle. Ensure you have plenty of gas, water, a hat, and a snack if you wish. Seven 4WD vehicles only; please be willing to carpool. No charge, but space is limited. Call for reservations at the Nature Center and mention if you need a ride.

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Mar. 8, Sat., 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Solar Powered Home Tour
Speaker: John Henry

Gather at the home of Joan & Bill Putney for a tour of a solar powered home system. You will view the equipment installed for the system. John Henry, a licensed California contractor, will provide information on size of the system based on electricity usage, plans, permits, location requirements, installation, rebates and tax credits, county inspection and approval, and SDG&E permission to operate. Call the Nature Center for reservations (required) and location of home. NM $10; M $8; V $6.

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Mar. 8, Sat., 7:30 p.m.
Stargazing Program
Speakers: Astronomer Dr. Jim and Grace Rickard

Two telescopes provided for observing Mars, Saturn and the Orion Nebula. Identify the constellations in our clear desert skies. Bring binoculars (if you have them), warm clothes, chairs and flashlights.

Sponsored by ABDNHA, there is no charge or reservations necessary for this excellent program. We will be hosted by the Borrego Lutheran Church, located on Church Lane. If you need directions, please call the Nature Center, 760/767-3098. Canceled in case of cloud cover.

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Mar. 9, Sun., 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Class - Writing for Children
Speaker: Author Ginger Wadsworth

Have you always wanted to write and publish children's books? If so, join children's book author, Ginger Wadsworth for an introductory and informative class.

Ginger, author of numerous nonfiction books for young readers, lives in Northern California, but she also has a home in Borrego Springs. Several of her published books were influenced by her time in the desert.

She'll bring handouts and answer questions like: do you need an agent, how to find a publisher, what to do about illustrations, and more. Bring your favorite children's book to share and discuss, and if you have a book idea, write it up (one page or less, double-spaced, please), and submit it to ABDNHA by February 29th, and Ginger will provide a brief, written critique. Check out her credentials at: www.gingerwadsworth.com

Call for reservations; requires minimum enrollment. NM: $40; M: $30; V: $25.

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Mar. 11, Tue., 9 a.m. - noon
ABDNHA Volunteer Training Series:
Visiting the Spring Desert
Leader: Naturalist Marilyn Dickson

This could be a beautiful Spring. We will update our selves on some of the areas popular with our visitors or find a new place or two to send them. If time, we'll take some short walks looking for flowers.

Meet at the Nature Center. Bring, water and lunch.

Part of the ABDNHA Volunteer Training Series. Space is limited, please call the Nature Center to reserve your space and let us know if you need a ride.

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Mar. 12, Wed., 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Hike: The Bench and the Badlands
Leaders: Volunteer Naturalists Mary Ekelund and Paul Larson

Join desert naturalists on a caravan into the Borrego Badlands for a moderate 2.5 mile hike up a wash to a memorial bench with an inspiring view.

Meet at the intersection of Inspiration Wash and S-22 just past mile marker 28. Bring lunch, water, hiking shoes, jacket and hat.

No charge; call the Nature Center to reserve.

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Mar. 13, Thurs., 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Weekly Beginning Bird Walk

See Mar. 6 description.

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Mar. 14, Fri., 10 a.m.
Desert Gardeners Meeting -- Irrigation: A Desert Dilemma.

Water-what is too much, too little and which are the best irrigation systems for saving water, and plants, in the garden? A hands-on demonstration of the emitters and valves available and how they work.

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Mar. 14, Fri., 8 a.m. - late afternoon
4WD Tour: Exploring the Yuha Desert
Leader: Naturalist Karyn Barnett

More than 230 years ago Juan Bautista de Anza, led his first expedition through this barren place on his way to what was then the little town of San Francisco, California. He found water at what became a route of passage for future travelers - the Yuha Well.

We will follow a twenty-mile section of the 1,200 mile Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Stops include Anza's Monument, the old Yuha Well, fossilized oyster beds and, time permitting, rock art etched in the desert pavement by Kamai Indians who inhabited the area long ago.

This is an all day trip and involves lots of driving and several short, easy walks. Come with a full tank of gas. Bring lots of water, lunch, hat, and sunscreen.

Meeting Place: If you are coming from San Diego, meet at 'Old Highway Cafe' at 9:30 a.m. If you are coming from Borrego Springs, meet at the Nature Center at 8 a.m. and carpool. Each vehicle will have a radio to hear interpretive tidbits along the way south.

Minimum sign ups required. Maximum 8 vehicles; carpooling encouraged; 4WD high clearance vehicles a must. Call the Nature Center to reserve. NM: $28; M: $25; V: $23.

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Mar. 14, Fri., 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
The San Andreas Fault - Lecture
Speaker: David K. Lynch, PhD

See related activity on March 15. The San Andreas Fault is the most accessible plate boundary in the world. Yet few people outside the geology/geography community know where it is or how to see it.

Dr. Lynch , author of "Field Guide to the San Andreas Fault," will discuss the fault and its meaning, display its location, present picture of fault-related landforms and outline a number of driving trips along the fault. Specific fault features are identified using GPS coordinates. Particular emphasis will be on seeing the fault in the desert regions of southern California.

At the Nature Center Library. Space limited. Call Nature Center to reserve. NM $12; M $10; V $9.

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Mar. 15, Sat., 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m
The San Andreas Fault
Field Trip: Salton Sea Geothermal Field and the Salton Buttes
Leader: David K. Lynch, Ph.D.

See related activity on March 14.

Take a driving field trip with Dr. David Lynch to visit locations near the south end of the San Andreas Fault is visible, including the Salton Buttes volcanoes and geothermal mudpots.

David Lynch (PhD Astronomy) is an infrared astronomer and remote sensing specialist at the Aerospace Corporation. His major fields of research include the infrared solar system astronomy, galactic physics, and atmospheric optics and image analysis.

Dave also does geological research and has been a consultant for USGS. He has published over 150 scientific papers and 10 books. His latest book is "Field Guide to the San Andreas Fault," available at the Nature Center.

Meet at the Nature Center. 4WD is not needed for this trip. Carpooling is highly recommended. Call the Nature Center to reserve. NM $ 25; M $20; V $18

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Mar. 15, Sat., 9 a.m. - noon
4WD & Hike to Billowy Overlook
Leader: Volunteer Deborah Sperberg

This is a short 4-wheel drive trip followed by an easy short hike to a gorgeous overlook. A photographer's dream. We will back by lunchtime.

Meet on the north side of Christmas Circle. From here we will car pool and drive east on S-22 to Palo Verde Wash. Bring water, hat, and a snack.

No charge. Space is limited, please call the Nature Center to reserve your space and let us know if you need a ride.

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Mar. 20, Thurs., 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Weekly Beginning Bird Walk

See Mar. 6 description.

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Mar. 20, Thurs., 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Experience Spring Edible Plants of the Desert
Instructor: Alice Kotzen

Join Artist and Expert on Native Foods, Alice Kotzen to hear about edible plants that are available this time of the year. Learn about plants that have been staples in the kitchens from early to modern times. Alice will have prepared dishes using some of these native plants which the students can sample and obtain recipes. Held at the ABDNHA Library. Call the Nature Center for required reservations. NM $17; M $15; V $13.

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Wall, Borrego Palm Canyon

Mar. 21, Fri., 9-noon
Guided Discover Walk: Borrego Palm Canyon
Leader: Karyn Barnett

Join Naturalist Karyn for a guided nature walk to the first palm grove in Palm Canyon. What animals live in the canyon? Are there any wildflowers blooming? Let's find out together. Fairly easy walking on uneven terrain; some scrambling over rocks.

Bring a lunch, water and wear a hat and hiking clothes. Meet at the Nature Center; carpooling encouraged. Entrance fee to trailhead is $6 per vehicle. No charge for walk; call the Nature Center for reservations.

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Mar. 22, Sat., 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
4WD Tour: East of Algodones
Leader: Naturalist Paul Johnson

Our first stop on this adventure in the Colorado Desert will be the Algodones Dunes, one of the largest dune complexes in North America. Visit a site where agates can be found and legally collected, a unique slot canyon, a small petroglyph site if time permits, and a population of rare fairy duster plants.

Meet in the parking lot at the Nature Center. Plan for two half mile hikes. 4WD is required, carpooling is encouraged. Bring a hat, water, lunch, camera, and a full tank of gas; trip is approx. 200 miles. Restroom facilities are limited.

Call the Nature Center to reserve; trip requires a minimum enrollment. NM $35; M $30; V $25.

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Mar. 22, Sat., 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Converting your Yard to a Garden that
both you and your local Wildlife will Love
Leader: Meredith French

Meredith French, Master Gardener, will take us through all the steps necessary to create a drought-tolerant habitat garden abundant with color and life. Learn all the pitfalls to avoid and the joys to be had during her Power Point presentation. Bird and butterfly enthusiasts who have wondered why they skip your yard-wonder no more. She will also share information on the process to get your garden certified by the National Wildlife Federation.

Meet at ABDNHA Library. Call the Nature Center for reservations. NM $18; M $15; V $13. (see related garden visit)

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Mar. 22, Sat., 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Visit a Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary
Leaders: Meredith French & Joan Putney

Join Master Gardener, Meredith French, with Naturalist, Joan Putney, for a ½ mile walk through her residential garden. Discover a wonderful wildlife-friendly habitat made up of an array of native and transitional plants. Come see the variety of native plants in bloom and learn how you can make your yard more hospitable to wildlife.

If you have a desire to help wild animals by enhancing habitat on your property and committing to human approaches for resolving conflicts with wildlife, your property could become certified as an official National Wildlife Federation or Humane Society's Urban Wildlife Sanctuary.

Call the Nature Center for reservations. NM $9; M $7; V $6. (see related class)

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Mar. 25, Tues., Noon-3:00 p.m.
Desert Container Herb Gardening
Instructor: Mike Chedester, Curator of Education, The Living Desert. C.I.G.

Many desert residents have small patios or limited garden space. These areas can be enhanced by using creative and artfully placed container herb plantings to transform them into inviting private gardens.

This class will offer many suggestions and tips on how you can plant, arrange, water and maintain these beautiful herb container gardens through a classroom presentation and demonstration. Each student will then make and take home their own herb container with supplies provided in the class.

Held at ABDNHA. Call the Nature Center for reservations. NM $30; M $25; V $23. March Event: Volunteer Dinner/Potluck & Certificates for training (not yet confirmed)

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Mar. 27, Thurs., 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. Weekly Beginning Bird Walk

See Mar. 6 description.

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March 28, Friday, 7:30 p.m.
ABDNHA Desert Lecture Series
Dr. Patrick Abbott, Geologist
Geologic History and Earthquakes of the Anza-Borrego Region

At the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. No charge to ABDNHA Members. For nonmembers, there is a $5.00 fee at the door, which may be applied to a new membership in ABDNHA. Seating is limited and on a first-come basis. Refreshments served following the program.

Tonight’s program is the fourth of five in ABDNHA’s Annual Desert Lecture Series, which continues monthly through April. For more information, call (760) 767-3098.

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Mar. 29, Sat., 10 a.m.
Borrego Rock & Gem (BRAG) Club

Members and those interested in joining are encouraged to attend. Find out about the upcoming field trip on Apr. 12, educational programs, and activities, for the 2008 season. Jim Havens, president.

Meet at the Borrego Desert Nature Center.

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Mar. 29, Sat., 9:30 a.m. - noon
Designing, Building and Maintaining a Native Garden
Instructor: Alrie Middlebrook, Professional Landscaper and Author

You will learn how to start visualizing your native garden, learn how to incorporate native plants, learn which native plants are right for your yard, and get many design ideas for your project. This class will be taught by Alrie Middlebrook who has more than 30 years experience as a professional landscaper and author.

There will be a discussion and question and answer session. Bring water and lunch.

Held at ABDNHA Library. Call the Nature Center for reservations. NM $30; M $25; V $23.

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Mar. 29, Sat., 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Tour-Visiting a Native Plant Garden
Leader: Alrie Middlebrook, Professional Landscaper and Author

The tour will feature one or two private gardens in the Borrego Springs locality where you see hands on how each garden reflects the natural environment around it. Visit with Alrie Middlebrook as she walks through the garden(s) and provides pointers on the gardens, plants and designs.

Call the Nature Center for reservations. NM $12; M $10; V $8.

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March 30, Sunday
Desert Garden Tour

Featured this year:

• Artist's Garden. So much to see here...imaginative sculpture, outdoor fresco, creative rock work, and unusual native plants captivatingly arranged. A true artist's garden.
• Nestled in a Mountain Setting. The romance of mid-century Palm Springs as you follow the path into this oasis landscaped with boulders and palms against a mountain backdrop.
• Historic Borrego. This privately owned landmark will capture your imagination about Borrego’s colorful past. Desert plantings create a Zen-like garden inviting one to be at peace in this desirable spot. Wildlife observation, access to hidden canyons, and valley-wide vistas. Perfect for entertaining.
• Southwest Elegance. Set within an expansive desert property, this classic garden boasts dramatic examples of mature specimens of cactus and other desert plants that complement the elegant lines of pool and patio, the stunning views, and lovely southwest architecture.

Garden Tour Ticket Information

ABDNHA Members: $14, Non-members: $18, Volunteers: $12. Early Birds: Save $2 per ticket if you buy on or before March 15.

Payment is required at the time of reservation. Visa, Discover, and MasterCard accepted. Make checks payable to “ABDNHA.” You may reserve tickets to be held at the Nature Center for pick up.

An invitation to join ABDNHA: If you are not already a member, we invite you to join now and obtain your tickets at the member price.

Come prepared to be delighted and amazed!

Walking shoes, hat, and drinking water advised.

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Mar. 31, Mon., 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Yuha Desert Series: Slick Rock Canyon
Leader: Karyn Barnett

If you like looking at rocks you will love this canyon! Come along with naturalist Karyn to one of her favorite spots in the Yuha where sandstone cliffs meet mudhills, and layers of oyster shells form beds of limestone that are now beautiful slabs of marble. We will hike to a dry waterfall made up of twisted and folded metamorphic rock. Hike is an easy to moderate 4 mile roundtrip. Bring lunch, water, hat, and binoculars and a full tank of gas.

Meet at the Nature Center from where we will carpool and caravan. Call the Nature Center to reserve; trip requires a minimum enrollment. NM $29; M $25;V $22.

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