Cultural Landscapes & Indigenous Perspectives on Desert Ethnobotany

Learn about the abundantly diverse, interconnected resources of desert ecosystems from an Indigenous perspective. This class covers cultural landscapes, ethnobotany, and use of natural resources by Indigenous peoples, including medicinal and ceremonial plant use. Discover the complex history of the desert we call home.

• The lecture portion of this class takes place at JTNPA West in Old Town Yucca Valley.
• The outdoor portion is held near Joshua Tree National Park.
• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required.
• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is included in the cost of enrollment.
• No meals or equipment are provided.

This class is leisurely. It requires less than 2 miles of walking with shade, seating, consistent terrain, and little to no elevation gain.

Instructor Elizabeth Paige: Elizabeth Paige is a desert naturalist and a member of the Torres Martinez Band of Cahuilla Indians. She's volunteered for and worked with organizations such as Mojave Desert Land Trust, Conservation Lands Foundation, and Cactus to Clouds Institute, and is currently employed by the Native American Land Conservancy, the Coachella Valley's only Native-established and led conservation organization. NALC manages four preserves within California, alongside the cultural communities the land is related to. In her role, she provides educational programs and community outreach focused on Indigenous Land Management, tending to share traditional areas, and collaborative restoration with local and state agencies. She is dedicated to cultural preservation and the advancement of Indigenous people working in science and conservation. She strives to be a resource for her community and co-created an outdoor group called Atchakwen Hikes wherein she regularly guides walks, interpreting environmental and cultural processes for local Indigenous women.

Photo credit: NPS/Cathy Bell