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Education Home | Education News | Workshops | Institute of Desert Ecology | Teacher Resources |
Tucson Audubon Society
Information about Past Institutes of Desert Ecology (IDE)
2007 Institute Highlights:
Well, another IDE is over…. And it was a great one! Participants came from all over the West, and included professors, teachers, a doctor, a paint salesman, a geophysicist, an astrophysicist, a writer, several college and grad students, and even an Everglades boat captain! A few of the highlights included Ronnie Sidner teaching mammalogy in the womens' restroom during an early morning rain storm, many practical jokes, a wonderful diversity of people, great temps, good questions, and a bird list of 90 species seen during the event. For many, the biggest highlight was the faculty, who bring such a depth and warmth to the program and to the subjects they love.
Read the full Report from 2007 Institute or see Photos from the 2007 Institute
Participant comments from the 2007 Institute:
“A great experience. Integrated studies and friendships between the staff were truly special. The staff were very accommodating and always smiling.”
“Thanks for the experience. I loved the spirit, content, people, peace, time and opportunity.”
“I found the locale, food, ambiance, and organization excellent.”
“I had no idea that the Institute would provide me with so much new information and experiences. I thought everything was great.”
“I thoroughly enjoyed all the instructors – highest quality.”
“We enjoyed and got a good feel for the Sororan Desert .”
A Day In A Desert Institution - A poem by Evan Dick (2007 participant)
2004 Institute Highlights
Participants ranged in age from 18 to over 70, with occupations as varied as biology teacher, retired librarian, park ranger, economist, yoga teacher, lobbyist, and college student. This year's participants, faculty and staff were happily surprised by a Saturday night visit from Tucson cartoonist and entertainer David Fitzsimmons. Participants rolled in the aisles as he lampooned our matchless faculty. Participants hoped if they entertained Dave half as much as he entertained them that he’ll visit again next year.
Participant comments from 2004 Institute:
“The instructors were an outstanding group!”
“Highly recommended! Everything was just perfect. Thank you!”
“Wow, wow, wow! High Quality. Truly worth every minute and every penny. Thank you!”
“This was a spectacular program. I’m a pretty serious amateur naturalist and often hear nothing new: not this time. The 6 core faculty were just fantastic.”
 2004 Camp Kitchen Area |
 2004 participants on a desert walk |
2003 Institute Highlights
Many 2003 participants were Tucsonans, but others came from as far away as New York and Pennsylvania, and from as diverse backgrounds as wildlife biologist, computer manager, environmental consultant, defense and aerospace consultant, teacher, homemaker, attorney and grad student. There was also a wonderful mix of ages, personalities, and talent. One highlight of the Institute occurred when a Zone-tailed hawk circled low right through the camp, awing birders and non-birders alike.
Participant comments from 2003 Institute:
“Food was plentiful, good variety and flavorful. Thanks for the daily fruit basket!!”
“The Institute of Desert Ecology was truly an amazing experience! The instructors were awesome and exuberant about disseminating the knowledge they had acquired throughout the years. It was an opportunity of a lifetime- an experience that will not be forgotten anytime soon…the environment was almost that of a big family.”
“Excellent, excellent, excellent –in organization, structure, materials, etc.”
“I especially enjoyed the scientific camaraderie and the willingness of the instructors to mix so freely with us “students.” What a treat!”
Click on the links below to read or see more about the Institute. These articles, lyrics and poems were written by participants.
Photos from the 2005 Institute!
Published Articles:
NW Explorer article (March 5, 2008)
Read an article from the Explorer newspaper about the Institute
Text of Northwest Explorer Article about IDE written by John Smith (IDE participant and volunteer)
National Geographic Traveler Article- Page 1
National Geographic Traveler Article- Page 2
National Geographic Traveler Article- Page 3
Arizona Daily Star Article - Page 1
Bird questions? Check Birding | General questions? Contact: Tucson Audubon Society | Webmaster: Email
This page was updated on 12/28/05