For this yearly outing, Dr. Jaeger chose the name "Palaver", which means an informal sharing of common interests. The appreciation of the out-of-doors in its natural state is the common bond which has brought together increasing numbers of Jaeger's friends through the succeeding years. Under his inspiring leadership, the recent Palavers have attracted more than 100 persons - some old friends, some new ones made through his lectures, articles and books. Some come as "chain reaction" friends of friends. Campers range in age from men in retirement to teenagers. Several 3-generation families have been represented and one 4-generation family was in attendance recently.

As an authority on the southwest deserts, Dr. Jaeger has pinpointed most interesting sites for his palavers, including some in the far eastern Mojave Desert, the Chuckawalla Mountains, and Mountains of Baja California. As campers arrive on Saturday morning, they sign his ledger and perhaps share some item for his temporary museum, such as an unusual pet (one year an ocelot was in attendance), collections of zoological or botanical specimens, a work of art, or a favorite mineral specimen. The afternoon is left free for greeting old friends and finding new ones. Exploring the area, taking a short nature walk, chatting informally with Dr. Jaeger make the afternoon go all too fast.

After supper comes the highlight of the outing, the campfire. It starts with a roll call, during which each man gives his name, affiliations, and interests. Then Dr. Jaeger shares with the group some interesting knowledge of the area. He might reminisce about his early association with some of our country's famous naturalists, such as Samuel B. Parish, French and Arthur Gilman, Harvey Monroe Hall, the Brandagee family, Marcus Jones, and David Keck. Then he presents guest speakers, one who may have done some interesting researches in biology or geology, or who might have taken an unusual trip. A portable generator in recent years has made it possible to enhance the talks with colored slides and movies.

On Sunday morning, Dr. Jaeger's cowbell calls the campers for a nature walk. Here is the opportunity they have been awaiting - the time when he shares with them his vast knowledge of the flora and fauna of the region.

As the palaver breaks up for another year, each man leaves with a sense of gratitude for an increased appreciation of nature's wonders and for the friendship of Dr. Edmund Jaeger who offered him this valuable experience.