Future of Conservation

Latest Episodes:

Your National Wildlife Refuge System Sep 27, 2026

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As part of our limited series honoring America s 250th anniversary, The Future of Conservation Podcast is highlighting the people and innovations shaping the next chapter of conservation in the United States. The new episode of The Future of Conservation, Your National Wildlife Refuge System, traces the origins, growth, and evolving purpose of an important part of America’s public lands, from President Theodore Roosevelt’s 1903 protection of Pelican Island to today s network of more than 570 refuges. Listeners will hear from Marcia Pradines Long, a Refuge Manager at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge whose life and career have been shaped by time spent on public lands. Then, we ll discuss the future of our National Wildlife Refuges with Chelsea DiAntonio, Wildlife Biologist who is working on the future of hunting, fishing, and recreation on Refuges. Their experiences reveal how stewardship and community engagement sustain conservation today, from mentor hunts and kayak trails to habitat restoration and partnerships with hunters, anglers, and volunteers. Together, their voices illuminate the crucial role Refuges play in protecting wildlife, supporting healthy ecosystems, and connecting people to the land.

From Fish Cars to Freezers: The Future of Fisheries Sep 27, 2026

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From ice-packed milk cans shipped by train to modern hatcheries and high-tech freezers storing fish genetics, America’s fisheries have always adapted to meet new challenges. In this episode, we dive into the evolution of fisheries conservation, where it began, how it’s changing, and the innovations shaping a future where both fish and people can thrive. Travel with us back to the origins of fisheries conservation to learn about Livingston Stone, who pioneered fish conservation with the technology available in his time. Hear stories from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service fisheries professionals working on the front lines, including Daniel Gallegos of Mora National Fish Hatchery, who is dedicated to protecting and recovering the Gila trout, a treasured species of the Southwest. Learn about the cutting-edge work of Valerie Kearney of Warm Springs Fish Technology Center, whose work in cryopreservation is helping secure the future of fish species by preserving genetic material indefinitely to support long-term recovery efforts. Today, innovation continues to drive conservation forward, helping species, ecosystems, and communities thrive together. Join us as we explore how we can steward our waters and protect fish for generations to come. Learn more about how you can join the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in celebrating America's 250th Anniversary and the conservation legacy that continues today:https://www.fws.gov/america-250.

Conservation at 250: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future Sep 27, 2026

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The Future of Conservation podcast is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with a special 2026 series highlighting the past, present, and future of conservation through the voices of those who have shaped it. This year’s episodes will feature leaders from across the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Tribal partners, historians, refuge and hatchery experts, and community stewards reflecting on 250 years of resilience, innovation, and service. Together, we’ll explore how Indigenous knowledge, early sportsmen, and generations of conservationists helped build today’s stewardship of wildlife, lands, and waters. We will also examine how this legacy continues through modern conservation work happening across refuges, hatcheries, and public lands. Thanks to Josh Corsey, Senior Advisor to the Director of USFWS; DJ Monette, Associate Native American Liaison Advisor; Stewart Jacks, Acting Regional Director, Southwest Region; Cynthia Martinez, Chief, National Wildlife Refuge System; Martha Balis Larsen, Acting Assistant Director, Fish and Aquatic Conservation; Mark Madison, Historian; and Doug Canfield, Audiovisual Production Specialist for being voices to illuminate the way. I hope you can feel the excitement for what’s to come.

The Bald Eagle's Return to the Sky with Tina Morris Sep 27, 2026

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Return to the Sky is the little-known and remarkable story of how one woman’s dedication to seven young eagles helped spark the recovery of an entire species. In the 1970s, bald eagles were on the brink of extinction—victims of hunting, habitat loss, and deadly pesticides like DDT. Then a bold experiment began: reintroducing eaglets into the wild. Graduate student Tina Morris stepped in to raise the first seven chicks by hand, launching what would become a turning point in American conservation.As the 50th anniversary of eagle reintroduction approaches in 2026, Tina reflects on her pivotal role in one of the greatest wildlife comebacks of our time. Her story is a powerful reminder that with courage, resolve, and sound science, we can be good stewards of the world we share. Episode recorded on 7/10/2025.

Freshwater Ecology and Open Science with Than Hitt Sep 27, 2026

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In this episode, we sit down with Than Hitt, Senior Scientist with the West Virginia Rivers Coalition, to talk all things water- rivers, streams, creeks, the creatures that inhabit them. Hitt emphasizes the importance of community engagement and effective science communication in fostering a deeper connection between people and their natural environments, while highlighting new projects that empower local citizens to join in the process of science to protect waterways. Episode recorded on 6/03/2025.

Building Bird-Friendly Cities with Tim Beatley Sep 27, 2026

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In this episode, Tim Beatley—urban planner, author, and lifelong bird enthusiast—shares how he has spent his career advocating for cities that welcome and sustain wildlife. Tim's work centers on building sustainable communities and exploring creative strategies for reducing urban ecological footprints while making cities more livable, beautiful, and biodiverse. Episode recorded on 5/15/2025.

Exploring Appalachia’s Fascinating Fish with Stuart Welsh: Hornyheads, Madtoms, and Darters Sep 27, 2026

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Stuart Welsh is not just a scientist but a passionate naturalist who delights in the subtle wonders of aquatic life. Whether studying rare species like the Candy Darter or observing the elusive American eel, Stuart approaches his research with curiosity and awe. His book, Hornyheads, Madtoms, and Darters: Narratives of Central Appalachian Fishes, combines science with storytelling to celebrate the unique and charismatic fishes of central Appalachia. Through engaging narratives, he highlights their fascinating behaviors and underscores the importance of conservation, inviting readers to appreciate the hidden world beneath the water’s surface. Episode recorded on 2/27/2025.

The Last Heath Hen: A Conversation with Christie Palmer Lowrance Apr 29, 2025

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In this episode, we sit down with Christie Palmer Lowrance, author of The Last Heath Hen, to explore the extinction story of Booming Ben, the final known heath hen. Christie delves into the science behind this bird's disappearance and reflects on the importance of protecting the last of a species. Through her storytelling, she addresses the next generation, explaining not only the ecological significance of this extinction but also its broader implications for conservation efforts today. Episode recorded on 4/22/25.

Building a Bird-Friendly Future with Joelle Gehring Apr 16, 2025

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In this episode of Future of Conservation, we’ll hear from biologist Joelle Gehring about a major challenge birds face: collisions with buildings and glass. Every year in the U.S., close to one billion birds die this way, especially during migration, when they’re drawn to artificial lights at night. The good news? There are simple, effective solutions that make a real difference, like dressing up your windows, choosing bird-friendly glass, and reducing lights at night. Joelle shares her work and insights on how we can all help create spaces that are safer for birds and better for people. Tune in to learn how you can be part of a more bird-friendly future. This episode was recorded on 09/12/2024.

Sustainable Solutions for the Spotted Lanternfly: Expert Insights from Tracy Leskey Mar 24, 2025

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In this episode, we’ll hear from Dr. Tracy Leskey, a renowned entomologist and expert on pest management. Dr. Leskey will share her extensive research on the spotted lanternfly’s life history and invasion patterns, with a special focus on its impact on ecosystems and agriculture, and the innovative strategies being developed to combat its spread. With over 20 years of research experience and more than 180 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Leskey has been a leader in developing behaviorally based management tools for invasive pests. Listen in to learn more about how we can address the growing impact of the spotted lanternfly. This episode was recorded on 01/18/2024.

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