Spring Flora of Joshua Tree National Park (UCRX, 1.5 Units)

Meet the flowering plants of Joshua Tree National Park and their pollinators! This weekend field class covers plant families, insect associations, and natural history with a focus on identifying plants in the field.

• The lecture portion of this class is held via Zoom.
• The field portion encompasses the Mojave and Colorado Desert ecosystems in Joshua Tree National Park, with the Saturday class beginning at the West Entrance and the Sunday class ending near the South Entrance. 
• Anyone may attend! No expertise or experience is required.
• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is included in the cost of enrollment.
• Participants earn 1.5 units toward a Desert Ecology & Conservation Certificate (see below).
• No lodging, meals, or equipment are provided.
• Participants caravan in their personal vehicles. Carpooling is recommended.

This class is moderate. It requires less than 5 miles of walking with limited elevation gain on somewhat variable terrain and/or more than one hour outdoors in the elements.

Participants earn 1.5 units toward a Desert Ecology & Conservation Certificate. Eligible Desert Institute classes can be taken for fun or for credit toward a certificate. To earn the certificate, you must complete 12 units of eligible classes within three years. We offer a variety of classes each season! The certificate is available through UCR Extension. You do not need to be a current student in any academic program to earn the certificate. Units do not contribute to any academic degree.

Photo credit: NPS/Emily Hassell