Sonoran Speaker Series Presents ''Understanding Arizona’s Bears''

FOR RELEASE October 1st, 2026

Sonoran Speaker Series Presents "Understanding Arizona’s Bears"

Free public lecture explores the natural history of black bears and their presence in Arizona

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Desert Foothills Land Trust and Valley of the Sun J will present the next installment of their Sonoran Speaker Series, a free public lecture on black bears featuring Jeff Meyers of the Arizona Game and Fish Department, on Tuesday, November 10th at 6:00 p.m. at Valley of the Sun J, 12701 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85254.

The presentation will cover the natural history of black bears, with special attention to their behavior, habitat, and presence throughout Arizona. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn directly from a wildlife professional about how these animals live in and adapt to the Sonoran Desert region and the broader Arizona landscape.

"Black bears lead far more complex and interesting lives than most people realize," said Jeff Meyers, presenter and biologist with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. "This is a great opportunity for people to learn how these animals actually live in Arizona, and what we can all do to coexist with them responsibly."

The lecture is part of the Sonoran Speaker Series, an ongoing free lecture series. The series is designed to connect community members with the natural and cultural heritage of their Sonoran Desert home. It offers accessible educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike, helping deepen their understanding of this unique desert ecosystem and its human history.

"As Arizona's communities continue to grow into bear habitat, it's more important than ever for people to understand how to share the landscape responsibly," said Raena Kamakahi, President & CEO of Desert Foothills Land Trust. "We're grateful to partner with Valley of the Sun J to bring this kind of education to the public at no cost."

Whether you're a longtime Arizona resident or new to the desert, the Sonoran Speaker Series offers a rare chance to hear directly from the experts who study the wildlife around us. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to find seating and stay after the talk for a Q&A with Jeff Meyers. To learn more about this event and other upcoming talks in the Sonoran Speaker Series, visit: dflt.org/speakerseries.

Event Details:

• What: Sonoran Speaker Series: Understanding Arizona’s Bears
• When: Tuesday, November 10th, 6:00 p.m.
• Where: Valley of the Sun J, 12701 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85254
• Cost: Free and open to the public
• Register: dflt.org/speakerseries

About the Sonoran Speaker Series The Sonoran Speaker Series is a joint initiative of Desert Foothills Land Trust and Valley of the Sun J, offering an ongoing series of free public lectures connecting community members with the natural and cultural heritage of their Sonoran Desert home.

Since 1945, Valley of the Sun J is the place where children are enriched, friendships built, bodies strengthened, minds challenged, and Jewish culture celebrated. The Valley of the Sun J is where all are welcome. Where the community comes together to workout, to play, to grow, to engage. The Valley of the Sun J is where we are All. Together. Better. To learn more visit valleyofthesunj.org.

Desert Foothills Land Trust connects people to nature by working with communities and partners to conserve and steward sensitive lands and species for the survival of our Sonoran Desert. Operating in communities across the North Valley, this nonprofit has conserved 1,100 acres across 31 preserves, many open for public exploration. Re-accredited in 2022 by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, the organization continues its vital work protecting the region's unique desert landscapes, balancing conservation with community needs in rapidly developing areas. Learn more at dflt.org. 

Media Contact:
Rachel Stringham, Director of Community Engagement, Desert Foothills Land Trust
rstringham@dflt.org, 480-488-6131 x 201