Springs emerge throughout the Chiricahua Mountains, a beloved sky island on the border between southeast Arizona and New Mexico. Thanks to the efforts of dozens of Spring Seeker volunteers who have surveyed these springs over the years, we understand just how important these water sources are for people, plants, and wildlife. Join us for this virtual springs tour led by Emily Burns, Sky Island Alliance’s Program Director for the Northern Sky Islands, to hear about how important springs are, the condition of springs in the Chiricahuas, how we protect and restore springs, and ways you can get involved.

We are living in an era of significant environmental change and loss. In recognizing that these times are challenging to live in, adapt to, and cope with, it’s essential that we come together as a community to process our experiences. Supporting ourselves and one another is just as important as stewarding the land and waters. Join Sky Island Alliance and Maria Renée for a dedicated time to understand the terrain of environmental grief, process our emotions, celebrate this beautiful region, and practice building resilience together. This webinar kicks off a series of opportunities to contribute your creative responses to a changing region, whether they come from grief, hope, or anything in between. A follow-up webinar on Dec. 10 at 9:30 a.m. will give participants a chance to share their reflections and experiences.

Calling all birders in the Sky Islands! We’re launching a new bird-monitoring project, Springs Bird Watch, to document the region’s avian diversity and the water sources that birds and other wildlife depend on, from low desert to upper pines. Join our virtual Coffee Break to learn how to get started, where to go, and how your observations at springs can help both resident and migratory species, from hermit thrushes and hummingbirds to yellow-billed cuckoos and elegant trogons. Eamon Harrity, SIA’s wildlife program manager and an enthusiastic birder, will lead the talk and explain how your data will help advance both bird and spring conservation.