The Oregon Natural Desert Association (ONDA) is set to launch its High Desert Speaker Series on January 22, 2026, with an engaging online lecture focusing on the role of beavers in combating climate change. Titled “Brilliant Beavers: Cultivating Climate Resilience,” the presentation will feature Emily Fairfax, an Assistant Professor of Geography at the University of Minnesota and a noted beaver researcher. The lecture will begin at 19:00 (7 p.m.) and is accessible to participants from the comfort of their own homes, free of charge.
Fairfax will discuss how beavers contribute to ecosystem resilience, helping to create environments that support a variety of wildlife as climate conditions shift. Her research combines remote sensing, modeling, and fieldwork to demonstrate how these semi-aquatic mammals engineer landscapes that are more resistant to drought and fire. According to ONDA, Jefferson Jacobs, the organization’s riparian restoration manager, will also participate, sharing insights about how ONDA’s stream restoration efforts are designed to enhance beaver habitats, ultimately benefiting entire ecosystems.
Upcoming Lectures in the Series
Following the discussion on beavers, the series will continue with another captivating lecture on February 11, 2026. Ellen Bishop, an author, photographer, and geologist, will present “Forged in Fire: The Volcanic Activity that Shaped Oregon’s High Desert” at 19:00. This presentation will delve into recent geological findings that connect the formation of Oregon’s High Desert rock formations, including notable landmarks such as Steens Mountain and the Owyhee Canyonlands, to the Yellowstone hotspot. Attendees can expect a visually rich experience filled with photography that enhances the narrative of how these striking geological features came into existence.
The series will conclude on March 11, 2026, with a talk by Diane Teeman, an anthropologist, archaeologist, and tribal elder of the Wadatika’a Band of Northern Paiutes. In her presentation, “A Tribal Family History of the Wadatika’a Band of Northern Paiutes,” Teeman will share her family’s history and illuminate the connections between cultural traditions and environmental conservation practices within her tribe. ONDA’s Executive Director Ryan Houston will also provide a brief overview of ONDA’s collaborative conservation efforts with local tribes to preserve Oregon’s desert landscapes.
Expanding Knowledge of the High Desert
ONDA’s Claire Cekander, donor relations manager, expressed enthusiasm about the series, stating, “ONDA is excited to share new perspectives on the High Desert. Whether you’ve been a desert enthusiast for decades or are just curious about this remarkable place, these talks will expand your knowledge and connection to Oregon’s dry side.”
The High Desert Speaker Series promises to be an enriching opportunity for participants to learn about the intricate relationships between wildlife, geology, and culture in Oregon’s unique landscapes. Each lecture will provide valuable insights that highlight the importance of environmental stewardship and the interconnectedness of natural systems.
