Prescott National Forest, Highlands Center Renew Longstanding Partnership

The Prescott National Forest has reissued a long-term special use permit to the Highlands Center for Natural History, reaffirming a longstanding partnership that supports environmental education, natural and cultural resource interpretation and opportunities for public engagement on National Forest System lands.

The partnership dates to 1999, when the Forest Service and the center formalized a shared commitment to connecting people with the natural world through education, interpretation and stewardship. Over the past three decades, the Highlands Center has helped children and adults better understand the natural world and foster a stewardship ethic among visitors of all ages.

The new permit succeeds the authorization issued in 2001 and provides for the continued operation and maintenance of the center’s educational campus, facilities, trails and public programs on National Forest System lands. The permit establishes a framework for continued environmental education, interpretation and public engagement opportunities that benefit local communities and visitors to the Prescott area.

The permit renewal reflects the Forest Service’s commitment to working with community partners to advance conservation, education and stewardship while providing meaningful opportunities for the public to learn about and enjoy their national forests.

The permit renewal coincides with the Highlands Center’s 30th anniversary. The center will host a public anniversary celebration from 4 to 7 p.m. Nov. 19.

More information about the anniversary event is available on the Highlands Center for Natural History website and the Prescott National Forest Facebook.