Left to right: Carole Chase, Dan Chase, Jim Cloer, Jo Ann Waddell, Ron Andreas and Pat Andreas; photo taken by Richard Beaty.
Pam Boedeker
The Program Committee is really the heart of SaddleBrooke Nature Club. Its members have consistently put together a wide variety of presentations and field trips promoting understanding, appreciation and protection of our natural environment.
SaddleBrooke Nature Club will begin its new season October 12 at 4:00 p.m. in the Coyote Room downstairs in the HOA 1 Clubhouse.
Ron Andrea has planned a program around the topic, Ethnobotany. Presented by experts from Tohono Chul, Ethnobotany is the study of how indigenous plants are or have been used by native cultures. During a field trip to Tohono Chul on October 19 we will study the topic further. Lunching on indigenous and not so indigenous food will follow at the Tohono Chul Tea Room.
November 9 our meeting will be held at the Golder Ranch Fire Department facility on Golder Ranch Road for a fascinating discussion of Extreme Weather in Arizona. Dan Chase has coordinated a program with Cuyler Diggs, weatherman from KGUN9 and Anne Marie Braswell, Community Relations Manager of Golder Ranch Fire Department. They will team up for what we anticipate will be an afternoon of interest to all.
Carole Chase has spent the last year putting together a field trip in conjunction with Road Scholar to the Three Mesas in Arizona. All spots are filled for this learning adventure where we will experience the Hopi’s rich culture and history through interactions with tribal members. Native art, ceremonial life and oral traditions are just a few of the expected topics.
December 14 we’ll be back in the Coyote Room for a presentation from Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation. Our topic that afternoon is Living with Urban Wildlife. The emphasis will be on that fragrant fellow, the Javelina.
The calendar for 2016 is already filling with more varied and fascinating programs and field trips. Watch for future SaddleBrooke Nature Club articles.
SaddleBrooke Nature Club meets the second Monday of the month at 4:00 p.m. in the Coyote Room at the HOA 1 Clubhouse. Membership dues are $15 for individuals or $20 per household. For more information about the club visit our website, www.SaddleBrookeNatureClub.com.