Preserve the Enchantment: Explore the Upper Reaches of the Verde River

Have you ever dreamed of exploring the enchanting headwaters of the Verde River? Now is your chance! Experience the serene beauty of clear waters weaving through the shadows of cottonwood trees in the upper reaches of the Verde with Dr. Gary Beverly.

This field experience provides a unique opportunity to visit a hidden gem that holds great value for both humans and wildlife, yet is under significant threat. You will discover one of North America's most endangered biotic communities and learn how your individual actions can contribute to preserving this unique and remarkable river. Sign up today and connect with the Upper Verde River in an extraordinary way!

This event is FREE! Space is limited.

Details:

Cost: Free, but space is limited.

Time: Meet in Chino Valley, AZ, at the Safeway at 9:00am, carpool to Sullivan Dam and the Upper Verde River Wildlife Area, and return by 4:00pm.

Difficulty: This full-day adventure involves a moderate 3-mile hike to the Upper Verde Wildlife Area.

Food and Water: Bring your own lunch, water, and snacks for a full-day excursion.

Itinerary: The day begins with a visit to Sullivan Dam, located at river mile zero, where we will learn about the proposed Verde Headwaters State Park. From there, we will proceed to the Upper Verde River, starting at the Upper Verde River Wildlife Area (a site managed by Arizona Game & Fish). We'll walk down to the river, enjoy lunch, experience the riparian forest, share stories, and then hike back to the trailhead in the late afternoon.

Dr. Gary Beverly earned a PhD degree in Physical Chemistry from the University of California. Since moving to Prescott in 1974, he taught chemistry, physics, and alternative energy at Yavapai College, then worked as a farmer, contractor, and businessman. Since retiring in 2006, he works as an environmental activist focused on protecting the Verde River and is the chair of the Yavapai Group of the Sierra Club.

The Human-Nature Connection in the Age of Climate Crisis will examine the history and current ecological challenges of the Upper Verde River as a case study to help Arizonans understand the reality of the climate crisis and discover strategies to mitigate its effects. Through field trips, a volunteer workday, a lecture, and a community dialogue, this initiative aims to raise awareness about the threats facing the Upper Verde and build support for securing a federal Wild and Scenic designation for Arizona’s last wild and free-flowing river.

Host or Publisher Natural History Institute