Public
Programs
The Riparian Institute has a wide range of public programs and classes that are offered year round. Reservations are required for some programs. Fees or suggested donations apply to many of the programs, although Institute members generally receive free or reduced admission.
Ongoing Walks
Bird Walks - Led by an experienced birder through the Riparian Preserve, selected Saturday & Sunday mornings. Registration required, $5. Visit the calendar for times and registration information.
Audubon Family Walks - Desert Rivers Audubon leads bird walks for beginners and families on the third Saturday of each month, through April, running from 8 am until noon. Free, no registration required.
Naturalist Led Walks - Join our ranger on an interpretive tour of the preserve
Every Monday, through April, 8:30 am. No registration required, $3 donation suggested. Meet at the Riparian Preserve parking lot.Garden Tour - Meet with our plant biologist, Jennie Rambo to view the Riparian Preserve Habitat Gardens. Learn about plant selection for attracting wildlife, and discuss care and development of garden areas. No registration required, $2 donation suggested. Every Saturday, through May, 8:30 am. Meet at the garden path entrance just east of the observatory.
Adventure Backpacks for Families and Small Groups
Contact Scott Cleaves to arrange for special group tours or programming.
Observatory
The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory is open for public viewings every Friday and Saturday evening from nightfall until 9 pm. No registration required, $3 donation suggested.
Special viewing times for groups can be arranged with prior notice, at $5 per person.
Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory
Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Desert Gardening – Meet with our plant biologist, Jennie Rambo, every Saturday morning to work in the Preserve’s habitat gardens. Check calendar for times.
Stewardship Saturdays – Every second Saturday through May, join in on one of our stewardship projects for habitat restoration, trail development, and more. Check the calendar for specific projects, times, and equipment requests.
Contact Scott Cleaves for additional community service opportunities or visit our volunteer page.