Central Arizona Conservation Alliance: The Hassica An Garden – an ethnobotanical and research site in the Comcaac Land of Sonora, Mexico

Since 2015, Desert Botanical Garden’s researchers have been making trips to the coast of Sonora as part of our columnar cacti studies, along with collecting seeds and herbarium vouchers, in land belonging to one of the most enigmatic indigenous groups in the Sonoran Desert region of Mexico: the Comcaac Nation. The Comcaac, in the past known as the Seri Indians, are famous for their knowledge and ample use of native plants as food, medicinal, construction, and handcrafts, such as baskets and ironwood carvings. We have been helping to develop a piece of land adjacent to the village of Punta Chueca, as a long term plot for research on the climate change impact on columnar cacti, as well as an ethnobotanical trail to promote plant uses among local youth and visitors. CAZCA is dedicated to hosting inclusive, accessible events so all participants can engage in and enjoy the program. Please email us with your accessibility needs at cazca@dbg.org.