High Desert Project College Series
Confronting Wildness: Not Just Another Nature Talk
Are you wondering how you can get involved with the world around you? Want to build your resume and your worldview? Join this free, four-part program, designed for college students interested in real conversations, community building, and practical skills that go beyond the classroom as we explore how our ideas of wildness shape how we interact with nature, and how we protect it. This series will be hosted at the High Desert Museum, and transportation from COCC will be made available.
You’ll Develop and Demonstrate:
Skill Building + Networking | Active listening + communication skills | Cultural and social awareness
Problem-solving with diverse groups | Civic engagement + leadership potential | Looks good on a resume
Registration Information | Return to High Desert Project Homepage
Event 1: Art of the Wild
Thursday, October 2 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
High Desert Museum
Join Museum staff behind the scenes in an exploration of the museum collection. From the creation of national parks to advertisements for Smokey Bear, we will explore how art, photography, and other imagery have influenced how we think about nature and the concept of wild. Dinner is included.
Event 2: Wild Lands, Working Lands
Thursday, October 9 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
High Desert Museum
How can land trusts and private landowners create common ground to balance the needs of biodiversity and agriculture? Join Brent Fenty from Oregon Desert Land Trust in a conversation that explores the intersection of conservation, culture, and economics in restoring working landscapes. Dinner is included.
Event 3: Wolves, Newts & Humans, Oh My!
Tuesday, October 28 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
High Desert Museum
Join Aaron Bott, wolf biologist from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Hayley Brazier, Donald M. Kerr Curator of Natural History, to explore the costs and value of species restoration through a discussion of the return of wolves in the region and efforts to save the Mazama newt. Dinner is included.
Event 4: Smith Rock’s Living Landscape
Friday, November 7 | 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Meet at High Desert Museum
Join us for an exciting field trip to Smith Rock where we will explore the challenges of balancing cultural, ecological, and recreational priorities in park management. Matt Davey, Park Manager for Smith Rock State Park, and Alan Watts, sport climbing pioneer, will discuss restoration efforts and challenges. Lunch and transportation are included.
Registration Information
There is no cost to attend but space is limited, and registration is required. This program is eligible for COCC independent study credit, and you must attend all four events to receive independent study credit. Click the button below to fill out the participation form by September 30, 2025.
Please contact Isabel Engel at iengel@highdesertmuseum.org or 541-382-4754 ext. 284 with all questions.
