Plymouth State University to Host Sidore Lecture on Human-Carnivore Coexistence
Plymouth State University will host the latest Saul O Sidore lecture on Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m., when Fikirte Erda presents her lecture on the complex dynamics of human-carnivore coexistence. The event will take place in the Smith Recital Hall at the Silver Center for the Arts on the PSU campus.
Plymouth State University (PSU) will welcome Fikirte Erda, Ph.D., for a Saul O Sidore lecture on Thursday, November 20, at 7 p.m., examining the complex dynamics of human-carnivore coexistence in multi-use landscapes such as national parks or biosphere reserves.
The lecture, entitled “Beliefs meet ‘beasts’: How culture shapes human carnivore interactions,” draws on research conducted in western Ethiopia. Erda, an assistant professor of Natural Resources and the Environment at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), is a spatial and large carnivore ecologist with more than a decade of experience in wildlife conservation and research across East Africa.
Moving beyond traditional measures of conflict, Erda’s work explores how cultural values, local perceptions and tolerance influence conservation outcomes. In order to develop sustainable coexistence strategies that support both people and wildlife, Erda argues one cannot sidestep the importance of social dimensions, cultural context and community engagement.
Named for humanitarian and New Hampshire businessman Saul O Sidore, the lecture series brings a variety of speakers to PSU to address critical issues and events in politics, society and culture, on topics that reflect Sidore’s interests. The Saul O Sidore Lecture series is free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended. Unless otherwise noted, lectures take place in the Smith Recital Hall in the Silver Center for the Arts in Plymouth, New Hampshire.
For more information and to register to attend in-person or online, visit plymouth.edu/sidore.
About Plymouth State University: Established in 1871, Plymouth State University serves the state of New Hampshire and the world beyond by transforming our students through advanced practices where engaged learning produces well-educated undergraduates, and by providing graduate education that deepens and advances knowledge and enhances professional development. The Plymouth State Cluster Learning Model emphasizes open, integrative, and project-based experiences. With distinction, we connect with community and business partners for economic development, technological advances, healthier living, and cultural enrichment with a special commitment of service to the North Country and Lakes Region of New Hampshire. To learn more about Plymouth State University, visit www.plymouth.edu.
