Discover Nature Programs

Through a partnership with the Louisiana Master Naturalist of Greater Baton Rouge (LMNGBR) we are proud to offer exciting new Discover Nature programs featuring local and national experts who are in touch with nature and are eager to share their experiences. All programs will be held in the Imo Brown Complex in the Beverly Brown Coates Auditorium at Hilltop Arboretum. Discover Nature programs are free for Members Magnolia Level ($250) and above.

“Louisiana Crawfish – A Succulent History of the Cajun Crustacean”
Featuring Sam Irwin
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 | 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Join us for an engaging evening with Louisiana author and journalist Sam Irwin as he explores the rich natural and cultural history of one of the state’s most iconic species—the crawfish. Drawing from his book Louisiana Crawfish: A Succulent History of the Cajun Crustacean, Irwin traces the story of this humble crustacean from the wetlands of the Atchafalaya Basin to its place at the center of Louisiana’s foodways, economy, and traditions.
Through stories, research, and firsthand experience in the crawfish industry, Irwin reveals how crawfish evolved from a local food source into a defining symbol of Cajun culture—fueling festivals, family gatherings, and a multi-million-dollar industry.

Perfect for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Louisiana’s landscapes and heritage, this talk offers a deeper appreciation for the connections between ecology, culture, and community.

For more information about this event, please contact us at LSU Hilltop Arboretum at 225-767-6916, visit www.lsu.edu/hilltop, or email info@friendsofhilltop.org.

Program Details

Louisiana Crawfish - A Succulent History of the Cajun Crustacean
May 26, 2026 | 6:30-8:00pm
Registration

Questions? Contact Hilltop by email info@friendsofhilltop.org or call 225-767-6916.