The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is set to host the 5th Annual International Desert Conservation Summit from January 16 to 18, 2026. The event will gather conservation leaders, scientists, and community advocates from across the globe to discuss efforts in protecting desert wildlife and habitats.
Keynote speaker Paul Rosolie, known for his work as a conservationist, author, and filmmaker, will address attendees on the importance of connecting people with nature through storytelling. “For conservation to succeed, people must feel personally connected to the wild,” said Rosolie. “Storytelling helps bridge that gap and inspires action.”
The summit’s lineup features speakers such as Rentsen Oyunbat of the Mongolia Conservation Initiative; Aidée Sánchez Ramírez from Conservación en Acción; Kenyan herpetologist Dickson Katana; Dr. Jeff Lovich, a former U.S. Geological Survey research ecologist; and Mary Wykstra of Action for Cheetahs in Kenya. Additional participants include Lewyn Maefala of Transfrontier Africa’s Bush Babies Environmental Education Program, Veila Makundi from Wild Nature Institute, Hannah Tranter of Community Rhino Conservation Initiative, Craig Spencer of Transfrontier Africa, and Susan Sorrells representing California’s Amargosa region.
Programming during the three-day event will focus on topics such as large mammal reintroduction projects, wildlife conservation initiatives in California, and expanded environmental education efforts.
Allen Monroe, president and CEO of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, emphasized the importance of desert environments: “Desert ecosystems play a critical role in global biodiversity, yet they are often overlooked,” Monroe said. “This summit elevates the voices of those doing the work on the ground and connects the public to solutions that create lasting impact.”
As part of its ongoing support for global conservation efforts, The Living Desert will award more than $180,000 to ten individuals recognized as conservation heroes for their contributions toward protecting endangered species and habitats worldwide.
The summit begins with a welcome reception and dinner honoring this year’s award recipients. Saturday’s schedule includes expert panels and an awards luncheon followed by Rosolie’s keynote address. Sunday offers zoo admission along with guided hikes, garden tours, and behind-the-scenes experiences for attendees.
All ticket holders will receive early access to Rosolie’s forthcoming book “Junglekeeper: What It Takes to Save the World,” select meals throughout the weekend, and Sunday zoo admission. VIP tickets offer additional benefits such as animal encounters and an exclusive meeting with Rosolie. The event is open to guests aged 16 years or older.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit organization accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It has served as a center for animal care education and global conservation efforts in Palm Springs for over five decades.
