The reason I haven't specified the area further is because I am willing to hear about any tribe who lived in that climate, or all of them if they resorted to similar methods. I'm interested in learning about storing food in that type of climate, and I'm curious to hear how it's been done historically. Furthermore, I understand that information may be limited, so I'm willing to hear about any time before they area was invaded (all the way back to the Incas if that's necessary). Thank you in advance!
Hello. I live in Arizona and I am an enrolled member of a Native American tribe. This is a small answer within a multitude of possible answers over millennia and dozens of indigenous groups. The Hohokam were one of these groups and inhabited parts of Arizona up until 500 or so years ago. I live in their ancient territory close to several archeological projects and occasionally find Hohokam pottery fragments and more contemporary pieces as well.
Many people often think of corn, but one of the most important staples to southwestern indigenous people was the mesquite pod. It could be stored for long periods of time. This isn’t related to the farming aspect of your question, but mesquite pods provided an important food source and could be ground into flour. It was harvested in great bulk and was a key source of nutrients. Some cactus fruit and seeds could also be eaten and stored as well as boiled. I’ve had These activities would could supplement food needs in between crop seasons, in addition to many other activities.