Join us for a hands-on field day exploring practical strategies for water-smart agriculture in the Southwest.

This workshop will combine presentations, demonstrations, and hands-on planting to show how thoughtful design and efficient irrigation can support resilient growing systems in a dry climate.

We’ll start with a tour and overview of the site, including a live demonstration of the irrigation system. Participants will learn how the field is designed to capture and use rainwater effectively, with simple breakdowns of how much water is collected from both the landscape and the tank-fed drip system.

Guest speaker Mike Halverson, Nursery Manager at Santa Ana Native Plants, will share his experience working with native species and restoring landscapes across the region.

We’ll then put everything into action by helping plant 4,800 native starts across the field.

Speaker Bio: Mike Halverson

Mike Halverson is the Nursery Manager at Santa Ana Native Plants, located on the Pueblo of Santa Ana. With decades of experience in the high-desert Southwest, he specializes in growing and restoring native plant communities.

Under his leadership, the nursery produces over 250 native species used in restoration projects across the region, including work with the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Tribal natural resource programs.

Mike is also a passionate educator, sharing knowledge on native plants, water conservation, and climate-resilient landscapes. His work reflects a deep understanding of Southwest ecosystems and a commitment to restoring them.

Schedule:

• 9:00 AM – Arrival

• 9:00–10:00 AM – Site tour and overview

• 10:00–11:00 AM – Talk with Mike Halverson

• 11:00 AM–12:30 PM – Planting

• 12:30–1:30 PM – Lunch

• 1:30–3:00 PM – Planting

• 3:00 PM – Wrap-up and departure

Capacity: Limited to 25 participants