January and February
In-person Nature Programs
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Active Net charges a convenience fee of $2.50 per transaction, plus 3 percent of the cost of the transaction. |
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Group size will be strictly adhered to. Walk-ins will not be permitted to join. |
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For all Environmental Education activities,
un-vaccinated individuals are asked
to wear a mask.
All participants, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask inside buildings and in crowded outdoor spaces.
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Birding El Rio Preserve
El Rio Preserve is a birding hotspot that offers many surprises to birders. On this outing, we will be searching for raptors, sparrows, and other wintering birds, as well as, familiar residents. All ages welcome. Please remember to wear a hat and bring plenty of water. All ages welcome.
Dates: Tuesdays, January 4 and February 1
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: El Rio Preserve, 10191 N. Coachline Blvd. Tucson 85743
Cost: $5.00 (Resident) | $6.50 (Non-Resident) | Free with Pima County Outdoor Activity Membership*
*Members: Please visit NRPR Registration site for Members’ COUPON CODE before registering for this program through Marana Parks and Recreation.
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'Slow Birding'
Agua Caliente Park
Enjoy the desert oasis of Agua Caliente Park to see waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and more. All ages welcome
Slowing the pace has many benefits – for both nature and nature-lovers. When we are still in nature, nature becomes active around us, undisturbed, encouraging more and deeper observation, understanding and appreciation of our natural world. The pace, distance, and terrain of this program make it appropriate for persons with limited mobility.
As with all nature-related activities, our voices can have a large impact on what we see, so side conversations are discouraged.
Dates: Wednesdays, January 5 and February 2
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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Tour of Historic Canoa Ranch
Join a walking tour of the Canoa Ranch headquarters. Visit the historic buildings and corrals and enjoy the special exhibits of the people of Canoa. All ages welcome.
Dates: Every Friday and Saturday in January and February except Jan 1
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding Canoa Ranch
Visit Historic Canoa Ranch, a birding hotspot in Pima County, where we hope to see waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and a lot more. All ages welcome.
As with all nature-related activities, our voices can have a large impact on what we see, so side conversations are discouraged.
Dates: January 5 and 28 and February 11
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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WYSIWYG Walk – Feliz Paseos
“What You See Is What You Get!” - Join a Pima County Naturalist on an easy-level stroll through one of our beautiful parks. On this adventure, there is no destination, so come along to enjoy the journey to learn about whatever nature throws our way! This walk will be between 1 and 2 miles long, depending on what we see and experience. So, bring plenty of water, your hat, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. All ages welcome.
Dates: Wednesdays, January 5 and 19 and February 2 and 16
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Where: Pima County Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 N. Camino de Oeste 85745
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding Tucson Mountain Park
The ironwood-saguaro habitat of Tucson Mountain Park is a stunning site to bird. On this walk we be looking for Greater Roadrunner, Gilded Flicker, Rufous-winged Sparrow, and many other birds. All ages welcome.
As with all nature-related activities, our voices can have a large impact on what we see, so side conversations are discouraged.
Date: Thursday, January 6
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Ironwood Picnic Area, 1500 S. Kinney Road at Hal Gras Road 85735. We will meet at the first ramada on the right after turning onto Hal Gras Road.
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Gardens of Canoa Ranch
Enjoy a guided tour of the gardens of Historic Canoa Ranch with Raydine Taber from the Green Valley Gardeners.
All ages welcome.
Date: Thursdays, January 6 and February 3
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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Stargazing
Historic Canoa Ranch
Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association volunteers provide an introduction to the night sky and set up telescopes for celestial viewing. Feel free to bring your lawn chair. All ages welcome.
Free. Weather permitting. Online registration required
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Cost: Free. Online registration required.
Dates: Friday, January 7 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Friday, February 18 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Fledgling Birders: Birding for all Ages and Abilities
Are you new to birding? Need help getting started? Birding is a great way to get outside to explore nature, learn more about wildlife and wildlife behavior, hone your observation skills, reduce stress, and connecting with others. Join naturalist Jeff Babson for a casual birding experience to familiarize yourself with birding basics. Loaner binoculars available. All ages encouraged.
Date: Saturday, January 8
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749
Cost: Cost: $5 fee. Children free with paid adult. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Stargazing
Agua Caliente Park
Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association volunteers provide an introduction to the night sky and set up telescopes for celestial viewing. Feel free to bring your lawn chair. All ages welcome. Free. Registration not required. Weather permitting.
Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749
Cost: Free. Online registration required.
Date: Saturday, January 8 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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WYSIWYG Hike – King Canyon
“What You See Is What You Get!” - Join a Pima County Naturalist on an easy-moderate level hike through one of our beautiful trails. On this adventure, there is no destination, so come along to enjoy the journey to learn about whatever nature throws our way! This Hike will be between 2-3 miles long, depending on what we see and experience. So, bring plenty of water, your hat, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Wednesday, January 12
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Where: Tucson Mountain Park King Canyon Trailhead, 2300 N. Kinney Road, 85735
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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WYSIWYG Hike –
Mount Lemmon
“What You See Is What You Get!” - Join a Pima County Naturalist on a moderate hike on one of our beautiful trails. On this adventure, we aren’t focused on the destination, so come along to enjoy the journey and learn about whatever nature throws our way! Hikes will be between 2 and 5 miles long, depending on what we see and experience. So, bring plenty of water, your hat, sunscreen, hiking pole/stick, and your sense of adventure.
Dates: Fridays, January 14 and February 11
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (includes travel)
Where: Meadow Trail – Mt. Lemmon
Meet by the McDonald’s at 9075 E. Tanque Verde Road on the NE corner of Tanque Verde Road and Catalina Highway
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Anza Tour at Historic Canoa Ranch
Learn about Colonel Juan Bautista de Anza and the group of Spanish colonial settlers who, in 1775, made their first stop at Canoa Ranch as they began an epic 1200-mile journey from Sonora, New Spain to colonize the port of what is now San Francisco. A 5-mile segment of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail extends through Historic Canoa Ranch. All ages welcome.
Dates: Thursdays, January 13 and 27 and February 10 and 24
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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Colossal Cave Mountain Park Nature Hike with a Geology Twist
Join a naturalist-guided, 3-4 mile, nature hike, in Colossal Cave Mountain Park. We will discuss the cultural/natural history and geology of the area. This hike will be faster paced with fewer stops along the way. Sections of the trail are rocky. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Saturday, January 15
Time: 9:00 am to Noon
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Santa Cruz River Ramble
Take a guided stroll on the Chuck Huckelberry Loop along the flowing Santa Cruz River to discover the effects of water on desert habitats. All ages welcome.
Path is entirely on level, paved surface.
Dates: Sundays, January 16 and February 20
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Group meets in front of Pima County Wheeler Taft Abbett Sr Branch Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive 85743
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov, or 520-724-5375
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Full Moon Wander
Join a Pima County naturalist to send off the sun and welcome the full moon. Nature reveals another side in the night hours; there is always something to discover! Dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring water and a flashlight. Ages 12 and up.
Dates: January 17 and February 16
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: Pima County Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste 85745
Cost: $5 fee. Children free with paid adult. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding Maeveen Behan
Desert Sanctuary
This beautiful cactus forest of this sanctuary offers birders the opportunity to see a wide range of desert inhabitants, like Gambel’s Quail, Greater Roadrunner, and Gilded Flicker. All ages welcome.
Date: Tuesday, January 18
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary Trailhead, Arthur Pack Regional Park 85742
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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Birding Agua Caliente Park
Explore the ponds, mesquite bosque, and surrounding desert of Agua Caliente park in search of its rich bird life. Winter is a good time to look for waterfowl, sparrows, and other birds of the season. All ages welcome.
As with all nature-related activities, our voices can have a large impact on what we see, so side conversations are discouraged.
Dates: Wednesday, January 19 and February 16
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749
Cost: Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding For Every BODY: Feliz Paseos
Join Marcia OBara for a leisurely birding experience designed for nature lovers with accessibility challenges; wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices are welcome. The pace is slow, distance short, and terrain even. This month’s birding explores the desert Oasis of Feliz Paseos Park to see hummingbirds, sparrows, woodpeckers, and more.
Date: Thursday, January 20
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Feliz Paseos Park, 1600 North Camino de Oeste 85745
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Stargazing
Tucson Mountain Park
Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association volunteers provide an introduction to the night sky and set up telescopes for celestial viewing. Feel free to bring your lawn chair. All ages welcome. Free. Registration not required. Weather permitting.
Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Ironwood Picnic Area, 1500 S. Kinney Road at Hal Gras Road 85735
Cost: Free. Online registration required.
Date: Saturday, January 22 from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Rock Wren Trail Nature Hike
Enjoy the scenic and rugged beauty of the Tucson Mountains on a moderate level, 2-3 mile interpretive hike. Sections of the trail are rocky. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must Ages 12 and up.
Date: Friday, January 21
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Richard Genser Starr Pass Trailhead, 1300 S. Clearwell Road 85713
Cost: Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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WYSIWYG Hike –
Gabe Zimmerman Trail
“What You See Is What You Get!” - Join a Pima County Naturalist on an easy-moderate level hike through one of our beautiful trails. On this adventure, there is no destination, so come along to enjoy the journey to learn about whatever nature throws our way! This Hike will be between 2-3 miles long, depending on what we see and experience. So, bring plenty of water, your hat, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Wednesday, January 26
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Where: Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon Trailhead at Cienega Creek Natural Preserve, 16000 E. Marsh Station Road 85641
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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Sweetwater Preserve Nature Hike with a Geology Twist
Join a naturalist guided, 2-3 mile hike at Pima County’s scenic Sweetwater Preserve to explore the geology and plants of the area. Sections of the trail are rocky. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Thursday, January 27
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Pima County Sweetwater Preserve, 4000 N. Tortolita Road 85745
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Historical Tour of
Agua Caliente Park
Enjoy a guided walk around the lush grounds and historic buildings of Agua Caliente Park to gain insights into the rich farming and ranching history of the site.
Date: Saturday, January 29
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road 85749
Cost: Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Yetman Trail Nature Hike with a Geology Twist
Join a naturalist-guided, 4-mile, moderate-level hike, along the Yetman Trail. We will discuss the cultural/natural history and geology of the area as we hike to the remains of the stone Bowen House, and a little beyond. Sections of the trail are rocky. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Thursday, February 3
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: Camino de Oeste Trailhead, 415 N Camino de Oeste 85745
Cost: Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding Cienega Creek
We begin in the ocotillo and creosote desert flats before traversing to the willow-cottonwood riparian woodland lining Cienega Creek. These different habitats will yield different birds, with many possibilities. Sections of the trail are steep and rocky. Please carry water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. All ages welcome.
Date: Tuesday, February 8
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Gabe Zimmerman Davidson Canyon Trailhead at Cienega Creek Natural Preserve, 16000 E. Marsh Station Road 85641
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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WYSIWYG Hike –
Tucson Mountain Park
“What You See Is What You Get!” - Join a Pima County Naturalist on an easy-moderate level hike through one of our beautiful trails. On this adventure, there is no destination, so come along to enjoy the journey to learn about whatever nature throws our way! This Hike will be between 2-3 miles long, depending on what we see and experience. So, bring plenty of water, your hat, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Wednesday, February 9
Time: 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Where: Tucson Mountain Park, Ironwood Picnic Area, 1500 S. Kinney Road at Hal Gras Road 85735
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding For Every BODY: Historic Canoa Ranch
Join Marcia OBara for a leisurely birding experience designed for nature lovers with accessibility challenges; wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices are welcome. The pace is slow, distance short, and terrain even. This month’s birding explores the emerging birding hotspot of Historic Canoa Ranch where we hope to see waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and a lot more.
Date: Thursday, February 10
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Pima Prickly Park Nature Walk
Learn about native species of cacti and succulents as we explore Pima Prickly Park and tour the county’s Native Plant Nursery with Pima County staff.
Date: Thursday, February 17
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Prickly Park, 3500 W River Rd 85741
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
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Fledgling Birders: Birding for all Ages and Abilities
Are you new to birding? Need help getting started? Birding is a great way to get outside to explore nature, learn more about wildlife and wildlife behavior, hone your observation skills, reduce stress, and connecting with others. Join naturalist Jeff Babson for a casual birding experience to familiarize yourself with birding basics. Loaner binoculars available.
All ages encouraged.
Date: Saturday, February 19
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Where: Historic Canoa Ranch, 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road, Green Valley 85622
Cost: Cost: $5 fee. Children free with paid adult. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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WYSIWYG Walk –
Sweetwater Preserve
“What You See Is What You Get!” - Join a Pima County Naturalist on an easy-moderate level hike through one of our beautiful trails. On this adventure, there is no destination, so come along to enjoy the journey to learn about whatever nature throws our way! This Hike will be between 2-3 miles long, depending on what we see and experience. So, bring plenty of water, your hat, sunscreen, and your sense of adventure. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Wednesday, February 23
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Where: Pima County Sweetwater Preserve, 4000 N. Tortolita Road 85745
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required.
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Birding Colossal Cave
Mountain Park
Bird the Arizona Uplands of Colossal Cave Mountain Park, as we search for residents, such as Rufous-winged Sparrow, Phainopepla, and Pyrrhuloxia. We will also be on the hunt for wintering birds, including sparrows and warblers. All ages welcome. Sections of the trail are rocky. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Dates: Thursday, February 24
Time: 8:00 am to 10:00 a.m.
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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Colossal Cave Mountain Park Nature Hike with a Geology Twist
Join a naturalist guided 2-3 mile hike at scenic Colossal Cave Mountain where we will explore the natural/cultural history and geology of the area. This hike makes frequent stops for wildflowers and other spring plants. Sections of the trail are rocky. Trekking poles encouraged and sure-footedness is a must.
Date: Saturday, February 26
Time: 9:00 am to 11:30 am
Cost: $5 fee. Online registration required
Information: www.pima.gov/nrpr, eeducation@pima.gov or 520-724-5375
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To help keep our school and youth programs free, please consider donating to the Pima County Parklands Foundation. To learn more, visit the website at pimaparklands.org. Once there, if you'd like to contribute, scroll down and click on the "DONATE" button. Donations are tax-deductible.
To support Environmental Education programs, enter Environmental Education in the "Enter Name of Project Here" line.
Thank you.
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Look for more Birding and Nature Walks coming in March!
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If you have questions about our programs
or need assistance, contact us at:
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