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Tumamoc Talks

Stinknet Stay Away! An invasive species transforming desert wildfire risk

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When

5:30 – 6:30 p.m., March 4, 2026

The Desert Laboratory on Tumamoc Hill hosts a series of talks focused on topics that relate to the science, ecology, history, and culture of the Sonoran Desert. All talks are open to the public.

Wednesday, March 4th at 5:30pm

Stinknet Stay Away! An invasive species transforming desert wildfire risk

Stinknet (Oncosiphon pilulifer, also called globe chamomile) is a relatively new invasive species in Pima County, but has been present in the Sonoran Desert for nearly three decades. This species increase risk of wildfire by dramatically increasing fuel loads in areas where it has invaded. This aggressive species has a number of potential negative impacts on the people and plants of the Sonoran Desert that we are only beginning to understand. This talk will discuss the history, biology, and impacts of stinknet as well as tips for identification and removal. 

Rachel Mitchell is an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona working to understand how ecosystems across the southwest are responding to changing climate, invasive species and altered fire regimes.  

Location: The Tumamoc Hill Boathouse (base of the Hill)

1675 W. Anklam Rd. Tucson, AZ
Street parking is available on Anklam, or the lot on the corner of Anklam and Silverbell.
 
Note: There is no event parking available on Tumamoc Hill. 

Contact us at (520) 621-6945 or tumamoc-hill@arizona.edu