Geologist and author Bill Jacobs will discuss the captivating geologic history of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau during a free lecture at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 6, at the Highlands Nature Center.

Jacobs has spent years studying the landscapes of the Eastern Blue Ridge, with a particular focus on the Plateau and its surroundings. After retiring from a legal career in 2011, he delved into a comprehensive exploration of the regionโ€™s geology through fieldwork, academic research and an array of courses and literature, culminating in publication of the book โ€œWhence These Special Places?โ€ His lecture will take attendees on a journey through time, exploring the geologic processes that have shaped the Plateau over the past 500 million years.

The lecture is part of the Zahner Conservation Lecture Series, which offers a series of free talks at 6 p.m. each Thursday through Aug. 10. The July 6 lecture is sponsored by Anne and Dick Goodsell and is a tribute to the memory of the late Claude Sullivan. It will introduce the new Claude Sullivan Initiative to enhance education and awareness of geology of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau and ensure that the Highlands Nature Center becomes the go-to destination for all things related to local geology.ย 

For more information, including a full lecture lineup, visit highlandsbiological.org.