A discussion about the Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve of Sonora, Mexico, is slated for Tohono Chul Park on Saturday, June 27.
"Land of Black Volcanoes and White Sands" is presented by geologist and author Dr. Larry Marshall, who describes the geographic setting, ecology and human history of this "unique and inspiring landscape."
For some, pinacate is the black stink bug forever raising his rear end to ward off predators. For others, the Pinacate is "the heart and soul of the Sonoran Desert: the magic and wonder of its harsh landscape, the product of its violent geologic history," a release said.
"What is left is a desolate expanse contrasting black 'moonscapes' with a white sea of sand dunes stretching to the shallow salt waters of the Gulf of California," it continued.
Many people see the 2,700-square-mile region as "exquisite." Yet explorers and natural historians have variously described the landscape "as alien, dangerous, isolated, mysterious, peculiar, silent, strange, and unfriendly."
Copies of the newly released "Land of Black Volcanoes and White Sands" will be available for sale and signing.
The discussion starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27, in Classroom 1 of The Education Center at the North Paseo del Norte park.
It is free to park members, and $7 for the general public.
For more information on the Park, call 742-6455, visit www.tohonochulpark.org, or visit in person at 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, one stoplight west of the intersection at Oracle and Ina roads.
Land of Black Volcanoes and White Sands
10 a.m. Saturday, June 27
Tohono Chul Park
Free to members, $7 for the general public
