Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival: Rimrock: Montezuma Well Field Trip with Spring Stewardship Institute

Dr. Larry Stevens, director of the Springs Stewardship Institute will lead an easy walk through Montezuma Well to look at this world-renowned spring ecosystem, its geologic setting and evolutionary history, and its remarkable biota. We’ll walk the talk through a free-wheeling discussion about the importance of groundwater and springs to the Verde River, its diverse biology, and multiple cultures. We will likely see quite a few bird species, and will discuss aquatic and riparian ecosystem ecology and the role of springs in the Verde River basin. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, and bring water and a good hat, and perhaps a camera for this scenic stroll. Be sure to sign up for Larry’s talk at the Studio on Saturday at 2:15pm. Cost: $30 Transportation: Self-Drive Meal: none Location: Picnic area at Montezuma Well       Part of the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival Join us 100 miles North of Phoenix in North Central Arizona’s Verde Valley for the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival. Experience birding during the peak Spring migration season at Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the banks of the Verde River. Close proximity to the Verde, Oak Creek, Sycamore Creek, and other perennial waters offers a wide selection of guided tours, hikes, and workshops in one of Arizona’s richest birding habitats. Our experienced guides have extensive knowledge of birds and the unique habitat that makes this region special. The festival, presented each April by Friends of the Verde River, is a purpose-driven community benefit organization and 501© 3 non-profit working to preserve one of the last perennial flowing rivers in the American Southwest. Festival site is at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.