Vision Statement : We will create a future where all people understand, value, and protect the Chihuahuan Desert. Mission Statement: To inspire all people to take actions towards a sustainable future of the Chihuahuan Desert. Core Values: Accountability, Integrity, Teamwork, Diversity & Inclusion, Innovation, Nature. Stay connected to the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition community. Subscribe to this blog for free!
Above – I met Joe Kuban when I was a park ranger naturalist at Big Bend National Park. Dr. Kuban studied the Havard Century Plant (Agave havardiana) and its relationships with local pollinators. He taught biology and ecology at Nolan Catholic High School from 1974 until his death in 2009. He established the first high school-level ecology program in the country in 1974, leading field research in Costa Rica, Big Bend, and Port Aransas
by Rick LoBello, Conference Chair
The Chihuahuan Desert is one of North America’s most remarkable landscapes. Stretching across parts of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and northern Mexico, it is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, plants, cultures, and communities. Yet today, much of this unique region faces growing pressures from development, habitat fragmentation, water challenges, and political divisions.
That is why the 4th Chihuahuan Desert Conference, taking place November 4–6, 2026, in El Paso, Texas, is so important. Hosted for the third time by the El Paso Zoo, this conference brings together researchers, educators, conservation advocates, land managers, students, and community leaders from across the Chihuahuan Desert region. It provides a unique opportunity to share new research, discuss conservation challenges, celebrate successes, and build the relationships necessary to protect this extraordinary desert for future generations.
The key to success in conservation and education is relationships. When people come together, exchange ideas, and collaborate across borders and disciplines, meaningful progress becomes possible. The Chihuahuan Desert Conference serves as a catalyst for those connections.
To help make this event a success, the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition is seeking conference sponsors. Sponsorship contributions are tax-deductible through the Coalition, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Sponsor support helps offset conference expenses and keeps registration fees affordable, particularly for students attending local colleges and universities.
Sponsorship Levels
Platinum Sponsor – $1,000
Gold Sponsor – $500
Silver Sponsor – $250
All sponsors will receive:
- One complimentary conference registration
- Recognition through logo placement and website links
- Recognition in digital and printed conference materials
- Recognition in the conference program
- Recognition at the El Paso Zoo and through conference communications
Whether you are an individual, business, organization, or conservation supporter, your sponsorship will help strengthen collaboration, education, and conservation efforts throughout the Chihuahuan Desert.
For more information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Rick LoBello
Email: RickLoBello@gmail.com
Phone/Text: 915-474-1456
You may also contribute through the donation link on the Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition website or send in a check by mail made out to Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition, PO. Box 9121, El Paso, Texas 79905. Be sure to contact us by phone or email if you mail a check.
Together, we can help ensure that the Chihuahuan Desert remains a vibrant and thriving landscape for generations to come.
Photos by Rick LoBello