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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260201T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260201T123000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T201921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T201921Z
UID:10000818-1769936400-1769949000@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Ride to the Crested Saguaros and Lifecycle of Saguaros
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/ride-to-the-crested-saguaros-and-lifecycle-of-saguaros-3/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Ride
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260203T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260203T113000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T203305Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T203305Z
UID:10000821-1770109200-1770118200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Marcus Landslide and Feldspar Trails Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/marcus-landslide-and-feldspar-trails-hike/
LOCATION:Tom’s Thumb Trailhead\, 23015 N 128th St.\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85255\, United States
CATEGORIES:Wellness Hikes
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260205T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260205T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T202616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T202616Z
UID:10000819-1770282000-1770289200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:The World of Arthropods - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/the-world-of-arthropods-educational-walk-2/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260205T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260205T123000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20260120T013110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T013110Z
UID:10000868-1770285600-1770294600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Brown's Ranch Homestead - Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/browns-ranch-homestead-educational-hike-4/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260207T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260207T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T201205Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T201205Z
UID:10000815-1770454800-1770465600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Introduction To Mountain Biking: Session 1
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/introduction-to-mountain-biking-session-1-4/
LOCATION:Pima Dynamite Trailhead\, 28777 N. Pima Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Ride
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260207T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260207T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T205509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T205509Z
UID:10000823-1770454800-1770465600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Introduction to Preserve Trailheads and Trails Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/introduction-to-preserve-trailheads-and-trails-hike/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Wellness Hikes
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260207T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260207T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T204203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T204203Z
UID:10000822-1770458400-1770465600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Hidden Desert - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/hidden-desert-educational-walk-3/
LOCATION:Fraesfield Trailhead\, 13400 East Rio Verde Drive\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260208T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260208T100000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T202928Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T202928Z
UID:10000820-1770537600-1770544800@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Bird Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/bird-walk-13/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260212T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260212T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T224330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T224330Z
UID:10000828-1770890400-1770897600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:More Noteworthy & Notorious Arizonans - Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/more-noteworthy-notorious-arizonans-educational-hike/
LOCATION:Fraesfield Trailhead\, 13400 East Rio Verde Drive\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260212T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260212T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20260122T170632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T170632Z
UID:10000869-1770890400-1770897600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Lifecycle of the Saguaro - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/lifecycle-of-the-saguaro-educational-walk-2/
LOCATION:Fraesfield Trailhead\, 13400 East Rio Verde Drive\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260213T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260213T130000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T230409Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T230409Z
UID:10000832-1770976800-1770987600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:All About Arizona - Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/all-about-arizona-educational-hike-2/
LOCATION:Lost Dog Wash Trailhead\, 12601 N. 124th Street\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85259\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T201345Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T201345Z
UID:10000816-1771059600-1771070400@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Introduction To Mountain Biking: Session 2
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/introduction-to-mountain-biking-session-2-4/
LOCATION:Pima Dynamite Trailhead\, 28777 N. Pima Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Ride
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T223524Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T223524Z
UID:10000826-1771063200-1771070400@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Geology of Tom's Thumb - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/geology-of-toms-thumb-educational-walk/
LOCATION:Tom’s Thumb Trailhead\, 23015 N 128th St.\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85255\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T123000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251222T214742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T214742Z
UID:10000834-1771063200-1771072200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Love is a Many-Splendored Thing - Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/love-is-a-many-splendored-thing-educational-hike/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260214T143000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T231117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T231117Z
UID:10000833-1771063200-1771079400@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:North and South Diablo Trails Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/north-and-south-diablo-trails-hike/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Wellness Hikes
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260215T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260215T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251223T165917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T165917Z
UID:10000835-1771146000-1771156800@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Geology - Educational Ride
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/geology-educational-ride-2/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Ride
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260219T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260219T103000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T224927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T224927Z
UID:10000829-1771491600-1771497000@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Brown's Ranch Stories - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/browns-ranch-stories-educational-walk-2/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260221T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T201527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T201527Z
UID:10000817-1771664400-1771675200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Introduction to Mountain Biking: Session 3 - Graduation Ride
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/introduction-to-mountain-biking-session-3-graduation-ride-4/
LOCATION:Pima Dynamite Trailhead\, 28777 N. Pima Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Ride
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260221T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260221T130000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T200738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T200738Z
UID:10000814-1771664400-1771678800@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Crested Saguaro -Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/crested-saguaro-educational-hike-2/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260221T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T223654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T223654Z
UID:10000827-1771668000-1771675200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Geology Along the Campana Trail - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/geology-along-the-campana-trail-educational-walk-2/
LOCATION:Fraesfield Trailhead\, 13400 East Rio Verde Drive\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260222T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260222T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251223T170354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T170354Z
UID:10000836-1771754400-1771761600@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Whiskey Bottle\, Turpentine & Black Hill Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/whiskey-bottle-turpentine-black-hill-hike/
LOCATION:Fraesfield Trailhead\, 13400 East Rio Verde Drive\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Wellness Hikes
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260222T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260222T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20250828T233644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T195312Z
UID:10000716-1771772400-1771776000@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Sonoran Sundays - Arizona Birds  (Guest Presenter: Arizona Game & Fish)
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/sonoran-sundays-arizona-birds-guest-presenter-arizona-game-fish/
LOCATION:Gateway Trailhead\, 18333 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy.\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85255\, United States
CATEGORIES:Sonoran Sundays
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260224T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260224T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251223T171447Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T171524Z
UID:10000837-1771923600-1771939800@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Brown's Mountain Area Trails Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/north-and-south-diablo-trails-hike-2/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Wellness Hikes
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260224T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260224T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251120T223820Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T223820Z
UID:10000781-1771952400-1771957800@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Lecture - Designing With Nature: Architecture of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and Beyond
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/lecture-designing-with-nature-architecture-of-the-mcdowell-sonoran-preserve-and-beyond/
LOCATION:Scottsdale Public Library – Mustang Library\, 10101 N. 90th Street\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85260\, United States
CATEGORIES:Lecture
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Designing-with-Nature-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260226T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260226T123000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251017T183701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251125T170531Z
UID:10000755-1772096400-1772109000@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Secrets of the Preserve - Educational Ride
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/secrets-of-the-preserve-educational-ride-4/
LOCATION:Brown’s Ranch Trailhead\, 30301 N. Alma School Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Ride
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260226T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260226T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251223T172023Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T172023Z
UID:10000838-1772100000-1772107200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Women of the McDowells - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/women-of-the-mcdowells-educational-walk-2/
LOCATION:Lost Dog Wash Trailhead\, 12601 N. 124th Street\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85259\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260227T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260227T130000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T225633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T225633Z
UID:10000830-1772186400-1772197200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Lifecycle of the Saguaro - Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/lifecycle-of-the-saguaro-educational-hike-2/
LOCATION:Granite Mountain Trailhead\, 31402 N. 136th Street\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260228T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260228T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251223T173052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T185652Z
UID:10000839-1772269200-1772276400@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Geology and Flora - Educational Hike
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/geology-and-flora-educational-hike/
LOCATION:Fraesfield Trailhead\, 13400 East Rio Verde Drive\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Hike
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260228T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260228T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T211444Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T211444Z
UID:10000825-1772269200-1772287200@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Ride 30 Mile Training Ride
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/ride-30-mile-training-ride/
LOCATION:Pima Dynamite Trailhead\, 28777 N. Pima Road\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85262\, United States
CATEGORIES:Wellness Rides
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260228T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Phoenix:20260228T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T150258
CREATED:20251219T210807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251219T210807Z
UID:10000824-1772272800-1772280000@www.mcdowellsonoran.org
SUMMARY:Sonoran Desert 101 - Educational Walk
DESCRIPTION:The PastFinders: Saving the History of the McDowells When we preserve a mountain range\, we preserve so much more than the mountains themselves. We preserve the landscape for the outdoor enjoyment of hikers\, cyclists\, equestrians and other seekers of the Sonoran experience. For those less inclined to travel the desert\, we preserve the viewscape – the montane panorama which defines Scottsdale. Also preserved are the biotic communities for those who enjoy desert flora\, fauna and learning more about them. The geological features\, while seemingly durable through the ages\, retain their integrity\, unspoiled by human development. Also preserved are the little things: artifacts humans have left behind over the centuries. These cultural remnants tantalize our imaginations and pique our curiosity: broken pieces of ancient pottery strewn across the ground\, mine tailings in the Gateway area\, abandoned structures at Brown’s Ranch\, bedrock mortars at Cathedral Rock. Who left them? When? Why? As the preservation of the McDowells proceeded\, it became obvious that the citizens of Scottsdale and the preservationists of the Conservancy were developing not just a preserve\, but a laboratory for urban/exurban ecological research. The Parsons McDowell Sonoran Field Institute seized upon this reality and has developed an extensive program of research\, analysis and public education in partnership with state and local agencies as well as educational institutions. Less obvious was the realization that the preservation initiative also protected the cultural evidence deposited throughout the range. For a few Stewards who are students of history and related humanities\, this cultural preservation provided an opportunity. Who Are the PastFinders? Stewards initiated the PastFinder program in June 2010. Its mission: “To work with our partner\, the City of Scottsdale\, to generate enthusiasm for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Conservancy by informing the general public about the history and activities of the people who have been associated with the preserve from ancient to present times.” The PastFinders collect\, preserve\, interpret and disseminate historical information about the McDowells. PastFinder participation\, from the program’s inception\, was intended to be inclusive: open to all Stewards and the public.  Anyone with an interest in history and a desire to acquire and share historical information with others is invited to join the PastFinders. The program began with monthly speakers addressing subjects related to local and Arizona history. As the speakers’ program gained a following\, the venue was moved from the Conservancy office to various local libraries\, eventually settling as an ongoing presence at the Mustang Library. Concomitant with the expansion of the speaker series\, PastFinder Stewards began researching topics of individual interest. They began the first comprehensive study of mining in the McDowell Mountains\, eventually developing a monograph and presentation on the subject. PastFinder Stewards also developed monographs and presentations regarding Archaic and Hohokam cultures\, ranching\, the local military presence and the history of various women who lived in or near the McDowells. Much of this research material is now incorporated in the four-part Human McDowells video presentation available for Steward education and as part of several themed hikes offered to the public. The Importance of Partnerships & Outreach As the program expanded\, it began to form partnerships. PastFinder Stewards have been invited to present at the Arizona Historical Society\, the Joint Arizona New Mexico Historical Conference\, the Scottsdale Historical Society\, McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, the Civil War Roundtable\, Daughters of the American Revolution functions and various official City of Scottsdale events. PastFinders have served on the Scottsdale Historic Preservation Commission\, the Scottsdale Preserve Commission and the Board of Directors of the Arizona Historical Society\, a state agency. These partnerships have resulted in joint events celebrating local history. In 2009\, PastFinders helped mark the birthday of General Irvin Mc Dowell\, the namesake of the mountains\, at the Scottsdale mayor’s breakfast. The event was popular enough to be repeated the following year. The 140th anniversary of the Stoneman Military Road\, which ran through the Preserve\, was celebrated in 2010 with a public hike along traces of the road in McDowell Mountain Regional Park\, which included Scottsdale’s mayor and the District 8 state legislative representative. The Arizona Republic and other local media covered the event. In 2015\, in partnership with the Parsons Field Institute\, Logan Simpson Design (an archeological services firm)\,  representatives of the Arizona Geological Survey and the City of Scottsdale\, the PastFinders performed an aerial mapping (balloon) and field survey of the structures at the Brown’s Ranch homestead. The resulting report was presented to the city’s preserve staff and is available to the Arizona archaeological community for reference. In 2018\, the PastFinders organized an event in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and the Commemorative Airforce to memorialize the 75thanniversary of a WW2 training accident over the Lost Dog area that resulted in the loss of two lives: a British cadet and American instructor. The event included a WW2 training aircraft flyover. Each of these events placed the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy in the public eye as an essential aspect of our community identity. How Are We Preparing the Future for the Past? History provides us with lessons and explanations\, but it must be collected\, preserved\, interpreted and disseminated. Here’s what PastFinders are doing today: Collection: PastFinders continue to perform research on a variety of subjects\, ranging from the history of Brown’s Ranch to the relationship between the Hohokam presence in the McDowells and nearby major prehistoric riverine settlements.Preservation: In partnership with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)\, eight PastFinder stewards have been trained and certified as State Historic Site Stewards. These Stewards are partnering with SHPO and the city’s preserve staff to identify and monitor sensitive cultural sites within the Preserve. The work will consist of periodic hikes to locations to photograph and document the status of various historic and prehistoric cultural sites.Interpretation: PastFinder Stewards have contributed information used in interpretive signage at several trailheads. They are currently developing a proposal for an interpretive trail at the site of the Brown’s Ranch homestead and corrals.Dissemination: PastFinders continue to staff an archaeology booth at various educational events\, such as the Expedition Days. They continue to develop presentations and themed hikes. They also support the Conservancy’s educational videos by providing content and\, on occasion\, video commentary. And despite the pandemic\, the speakers’ program has continued via Zoom.How Can I Help? You don’t have to be a historian to be a PastFinder. All you need is an interest in history and an enthusiastic desire to help preserve and share it with others. Here are some areas where we welcome additional help: State Site Stewards: If you like to photograph and document historic sites and possess the integrity not to disturb cultural artifacts\, consider becoming a State Site Steward. The state training is straightforward and you will learn much about the archaeology of Arizona and the McDowells.Expedition Days: If you like children and enjoy digging in the dirt for potsherds\, this is the gig for you. The PastFinder booth teaches youngsters about archaeology and offers them the opportunity to dig for artifacts in sand-filled tubs. For Expedition Days and other public events\, we welcome those with a knack for dealing with future archaeologists.Hikes: Do you like to hike and share historical information with others? Our experienced Stewards will provide the education\, storyboards and field training to prepare you to assist with and eventually lead themed historical hikes. Want to develop a themed hike of your own? We can help you do that\, too.Research: We conduct everything from field studies and photo interpretation to online research and interviews. If you enjoy these activities\, you’ll be right at home as a PastFinder.Learn more about our Stewardship opportunities.
URL:https://www.mcdowellsonoran.org/event/sonoran-desert-101-educational-walk-8/
LOCATION:Tom’s Thumb Trailhead\, 23015 N 128th St.\, Scottsdale\, AZ\, 85255\, United States
CATEGORIES:Educational Walk
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