The elephant serves an important role in the ecology of many African nations, but because of poaching, these iconic animals could be extinct in less than a decade.

Internationally-known conservationist Pratik Patel, founder of the African Wildlife Trust and CEO of Safari Legacy, will speak at the Gardens. Focusing on African elephants, he'll discuss the variety of initiatives designed to benefit broader efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade, and what must be done to prevent the elephant’s demise.