The 2024 series will begin on June 13 with Dr. Caleb Hickman’s presentation titled “Ecological Sovereignty: Managing Natural Resources from a Cherokee Biologist.” Dr. Hickman, a supervisory biologist for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, will share his insights into how tribes manage natural resources using a blend of traditional knowledge and contemporary science.

HBF welcomes all to join the Zahner Conservation Lecture Series, a perfect opportunity to learn, engage, and be inspired by the natural world. The lectures are every Thursday evening at 6 p.m. from June 13 to Aug. 15 at the Highlands Nature Center (930 Horse Cove Road). To see HBF’s full Zahner lecture lineup, visit highlandsbiological.org. The Highlands Nature Center is part of the Highlands Biological Station, a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University.