High Desert Project – Wolves on the High Desert Landscape

Wolves on the High Desert Landscape

Join the High Desert Museum for a compelling series that explores the multifaceted story of wolves in the West. Through science, culture and art, we’ll examine the ecological impact of wolf reintroduction, the deep cultural and spiritual meanings wolves hold, and the ongoing challenges of coexistence.  


Registration Information | Return to High Desert Project Homepage

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Event 1: Wolves on the Landscape

Monday, September 22 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm 

High Desert Museum

Join us for an intimate conversation with Bobby Brunoe, the CEO for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and wolf biologist Aaron Bott about local wolf history and management. 

Step into the heart of the High Desert with Aaron Bott, wolf biologist from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. In this engaging event, we’ll travel to Hatfield Ranch in Brothers, Oregon to discuss the realities of coexisting with Central Oregon’s wolves from a recreation and producer perspective.

Photography by Rob Kerr

Event 2: Navigating Coexistence

Saturday, October 4 | Full Day

Meet at the High Desert Museum

Travel to the Hatfield Ranch in Brothers, Oregon to join rancher Becky Hyde and ODFW biologist Emily Weidner in a discussion about wolf presence in Central Oregon from both wildlife and ranching perspectives. 

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Event 3: Wolves in Art and Culture

Tuesday, October 7 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm 

High Desert Museum

This behind-the-scenes visit to the collections at the Museum with Dr. Phillip Cash Cash (Cayuse/Nez Perce) and discussion with artist Andries Fourie will explore spiritual, emotional, and symbolic narratives related to wolves. 

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Event 4: Group Reflection with Ellen Waterston

Monday, October 13 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm

High Desert Museum

Concluding this series, author and Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston will lead a spirited hands-on session guiding participants through reflections on what we discussed through the events. 

Registration Information

We request that participants attend all four events. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited and registration is required. If you are interested in learning more, click the button below and fill out the participation form by August 29, 2025. Please contact Isabel Engel at iengel@highdesertmuseum.org or 541-382-4754, ext. 284 with all questions.