High Desert Project – Wolves in the High Desert Landscape

Wolves in the High Desert Landscape

Embark on a journey into the fascinating world of wolves with the High Desert Museum. Join us for a series of thought-provoking events that will delve into the complexity of wolf reintroduction, cultural significance of this animal, and the challenges of coexistence. Each event offers distinct insights and perspectives, fostering a nuanced understanding of these enigmatic creatures as we explore the realities surrounding wolves and their place in the world.

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Event #1: Wolves on the Landscape with Doug Smith

Wednesday, January 24 at 5:30 pm

Join us for an intimate discussion with Doug Smith, formerly the senior wildlife biologist of Yellowstone National Park. Doug will share his personal with the 30-year initiative focused on reintroducing and managing wolves to the nation’s first national park. This event will be held at the High Desert Museum and includes dinner.


Event #3: Navigating the Complex Dimensions of Wolf-Human Coexistence with Aaron Bott

Saturday, March 9 at 8:30 am

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. This event will meet at the High Desert Museum before departing for our field trip location. Lunch is included.

Event #2: Wolf Song: The Role of the Wolf (Canis Iupus) Species in Plateau Spirituality with Dr. Phillip Cash Cash

Wednesday, February 21 at 5:30 pm

Artist, knowledge holder, traditional healer, and language expert Dr. Phillip Cash Cash (Cayuse/Nez Perce) will discuss the deep cultural meanings that wolves hold for Plateau tribes. You will have the opportunity to engage with cultural items in a behind-the-scenes intimate setting and learn about the ongoing relationship between these items and contemporary Plateau communities. This event will be held at the High Desert Museum and includes dinner.


Event #4: Through Our Eyes: Crafting the Complicated Narrative with Andries Fourie

Saturday, March 16 at 12:00 pm

Join us for an immersive workshop with artist Andries Fourie, where we will conclude our examination of the multifaceted world of wolves, utilizing immersive multimedia art as a powerful medium to express and explore our understanding of these charismatic creatures. This event will be held at the High Desert Museum and includes lunch.


Applications are now CLOSED for this High Desert Project series. Check back on our homepage for upcoming High Desert Project series!

**Individuals selected to participate will be notified by January 8, 2024. Please contact Tristin Vaughn at tvaughn@highdesertmuseum.org or (541) 382-4754  extension 284 with all questions.**