On Thursday, we learned about all the agricultural techniques used in the Sonoran Desert and the plants unique to the region. We even got to try some of the traditional foods, including mesquite flour, corn flour, “granola,” beans, and for those brave enough, chili pepper seeds. After seeing tanner choke on those, I was not inclined to try them. But I did however push away my picky eating for the morning to try the bland traditional beans of the desert. My second ever bean experience was quite tasteful, but I can guarantee unless it is those same beans, I will not ever eat them. Then we toured the urban gardens, which reminded me of the urban gardens from home. I think it is surprising that plants are able to thrive in this heat in the middle of a courtyard, but its techniques like this that show fresh food can be grown anywhere. Finally, we ended with a stop at the Ajo farmers market where I had a phenomenal burger.
Later that day, we got a tour of the small town of Ajo from the ISDA. It was interesting to see how they are trying to revive their old mining town through art. They provided ample opportunities for different artists to thrive in the town. I loved seeing all the murals throughout town and knowing that is how they are going to make progress moving forward. It really livened up the town as a whole and made every corner intriguing.
I also liked the murals and loved the liveliness of the town. The cement standing up people were creepy when I first saw them and the story behind them did no service in dispelling that fear/creepy feeling. The spice popcorn orange looking thing also killed me and I only ate one. Was the phenomenal burger the grass-fed burger?
Being in Ajo reminded me a little bit of Lexington, largely I suppose because of the obvious similarity in population size. However, I find it truly impressive how invested they are in their town. Similar to the Tohono O’odham, they are celebrating their history and incorporating it into their present as they try to move forward and create a successful economy in the area. I hope to return in Ajo in a few years and see even more cool businesses and art!