Nature Boost

Groundhog Day: How a Large Rodent Became an Unqualified Weatherman Jan 16, 2025

Don’t hit snooze on our first episode of 2025! We’re kicking

off the new year by looking into the quirky history of Groundhog Day. From its

ancient European roots to its evolution into a beloved American tradition,

Nature Boost explores how this strange holiday came to be. MDC Naturalist

Austin Lambert also gives insight into one of Missouri’s most well-known

rodents. Learn more about groundhogs in our online Field Guide at

missouriconservation.org.

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A Nature Boost Holiday Countdown Dec 20, 2024

Take break from the holiday frenzy and learn what natural events occur during these last days of 2024. Need last-minute gifts? There are many options for nature lovers in the MDC Nature Shop! Order nature guides, cookbooks, and our popular Natural Events Calendar at mdcnatureshop.com

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The Spirit of Gratitude with Heather Feeler Nov 21, 2024

The outdoors has a special way of bringing peace and erasing stress, and November is a time we reflect on the things we’re thankful for. MDC Communications Branch Chief Heather Feeler discusses how her program, The Spirit of Gratitude, can help us increase energy and inspiration, foster self-improvement, and regain the spark and joy in living out our mission.

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The Legend of Mo Mo the Missouri Monster Oct 17, 2024

Bigfoot, Sasquatch, and Mo Mo? In celebration of Halloween, Nature Boost is looking into the story of Mo Mo the Missouri Monster. Sightings of the creature date back to the early 1970s in the small town of Louisiana. Telling us more about this monstrous history is Louisiana Historical Museum President Brent Engel. Are you a Mo Mo skeptic? This episode may just turn you into a believer!

Special thanks to Musician Bill Whyte for his original song Mo Mo the Missouri Monster.

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Did You Thank a Stream Teamer Today? Sep 19, 2024

Thousands of volunteers dedicate their free time to conserving Missouri’s blue spaces. Since 1989, Missouri Stream Teams have worked to remove trash from waterways, plant trees along streams, remove invasive plants, and more. MDC Volunteer Programs Manager Rebecca O’Hearn and Volunteer Engagement Specialist Brian Waldrop highlight the important work Stream Teams has completed in its 35 years and discuss how you can join the movement. Start your own Stream Team at mostreamteam.org

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A Snake-Like Fish That Breathes Air is Causing Big Problems in Missouri Aug 15, 2024

A fish with cobra-like coloring, a set of teeth, and the capability to live on land for several days has made its way into Missouri. MDC has confirmed numerous reports of the northern snakehead in the state and needs your help to track it. Invasive Species Ecologist Angela Sokolowski and Fisheries Program Angler Outreach Specialist Andrew Branson tell us more about this unique fish, why it’s a problem, and what to do if you catch one.

Reports of northern snakeheads can be made by calling the MDC Southeast Regional Office at 573-290-5730 or online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Ek

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Black Bears & BearWise with Nate Bowersock and Josh Wisdom Jul 18, 2024

When temperatures warm up, black bears move across the landscape … once again reminding us that Missouri is bear country! As part of MDC’s black bear research, biologists trap and study bears in the summer to assess survival, habitat, and movements. Black Bear Biologist Nate Bowersock explains what happens during these research trips and what his team does with the data. Later, Wildlife Damage Biologist Josh Wisdom explains why it’s important for Missourians to be “BearWise.” Learn more about black bears at missouriconservation.org and learn how to live responsibly with bears by visiting bearwise.org

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What’s Up with Mountain Lions in Missouri? Jun 20, 2024

Does Missouri have mountain lions? Yes and no. Many sightings of these large cats turn out to be a case of mistaken identity. Although mountain lions were once as common as deer in Missouri, they were eradicated in the 19th century. If that’s the case, why are we seeing these cats pop up now and again? Are they making a comeback? Is there cause for alarm? MDC’s Wildlife Management Coordinator Alan Leary answers these questions and more in this episode. And be sure to check out the MDC website to learn more about MDC’s Mountain Lion Response Team, a list of all confirmed mountain lion reports in the state, and more mountain lion facts. Visit mdc.mo.gov/wildlife/report-wildlife-sightings/mountain-lion-reports

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Best Wishes to Sara Parker Pauley! May 17, 2024

MDC Director Sara Parker Pauley is permanently out-of-office and retiring from the Department! Sara joins Nature Boost to look back on her time in conservation, the people who inspired her, and shares guidance for those interested in a conservation-related career.

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Here Come the Cicadas! Apr 18, 2024

Missouri’s annual cicadas will be joined by their periodical friends this summer – prepare for a noisy season! What even are cicadas? Why do they spend most of their lives underground? What are the benefits of these little creatures? Learn the answers and dispel some cicada myths when Nature Boost is joined by MDC Forest Entomologist Robbie Doerhoff. Find more cool facts about annual and periodical cicadas on the MDC website at missouriconservation.org

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Solar Eclipse 2024 Mar 21, 2024

Nature Boost is celebrating 2024’s biggest celestial event – the solar eclipse slated for April 8 in southeast Missouri! We talk to MDC Media Specialist and self-proclaimed astronomy nerd Dan Zarlenga about how and why an eclipse happens, what to expect, and best ways to take pictures and videos of the event. We also speak to Urban Wildlife Biologist Erin Shank about what our native wildlife thinks of these events and the interesting ways they react when the moon blocks out the light of the sun.

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Saving Missouri’s Hellbender Part II Feb 15, 2024

Missouri’s Ozark and eastern hellbender populations are endangered, but a special partnership between the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Saint Louis Zoo is helping these salamanders stage a comeback. In February’s episode, hear from Justin Elden, Curator of Herpetology and Aquatics at the Saint Louis Zoo, and Director of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute Ron and Karen Goellner Center for Hellbender Conservation, as he shows us around the Zoo’s Herpetarium and talks about the challenges and success stories around this special breeding program.

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Saving Missouri’s Hellbender Part I Jan 18, 2024

What the heck is a hellbender? Listen to this episode and find out! Missouri Herpetologist Dr. Jeff Briggler takes Nature Boost on an Ozark stream to check during breeding season for the eastern hellbender. This episode discusses the hellbender’s endangered status, the challenges both Ozark and eastern subspecies face, and MDC’s partnership with the Saint Louis Zoo to restore populations. Learn more about the hellbender by visiting mdc.mo.gov or stlzoo.org

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Seasonal Self-Care Dec 21, 2023

Nature’s effect on our health is a topic we’ve discussed before, but it bears repeating! Primary Care Physician Dr. Jennifer Allen joins us to discuss why our bodies and minds need nature and why getting outside is especially important in the winter!

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Q&A with a Naturalist Nov 16, 2023

MDC Naturalist Sarah Easton joins us again to answer common questions received during the fall and winter seasons. Topics include white-tailed deer, MDC’s Eagle Days, leaving the leaves, and how to recycle live Christmas trees for wildlife.

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Rockwood’s Rock Climbing Oct 19, 2023

Nature Boost learns the ropes this episode with Kevin McCarthy and Russell Errett from the BETA Fund. These two rock climbing enthusiasts helped establish the first rock climbing bluff offered on an MDC area at Rockwoods Reservation. Learn rock climbing basics, safety, how to get started, and hear about BETA Fund’s mission to conserve outdoor spaces in the Midwest for recreational rock climbing. Read more about the organization at betafund.org.

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Lunch Date Sep 21, 2023

Nature Boost meets up with MDC Conservation Educator Ginger Miller for a picnic lunch in Windsor. What’s on the menu? Listen and find out!

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A Night at the Muny Aug 17, 2023

Join us for a night of theater at the Muny! Muny CEO Kwofe Coleman tells us what makes this outdoor theater so special, how the nature setting adds to productions, and why so many continue to attend shows year after year. Later, MDC’s Karen Hudson guides us around Forest Park and tells us about MDC’s partnership with the Muny.

Learn more and visit at muny.org!

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Summer Q&A with a Naturalist Jul 20, 2023

MDC Naturalist Sarah Easton sits down with Jill to answer common questions MDC receives from the public during the summer season. Topics include summer bird-feeding, what to do if you find an abandoned or injured animal, and best ways to protect yourself against mosquitos, ticks, and poison ivy.

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The Cave State Jun 15, 2023

Learn why Missouri is dubbed “The Cave State” as Jill goes cave exploring with MDC Naturalist and cave expert Shelly Colatskie. Learn why the state hosts so many caves, how they form, and tips and resources on how to become a caver yourself!

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Morels Part II May 18, 2023

Morel mushrooms are tricky fungi to hunt. Join Jill as she sets out on another quest to find the coveted springtime mushroom. Will she succeed? Or will she spend another year wondering if these mushrooms actually live up to the hype? Listen and find out.

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Give Turtles a Brake! Apr 20, 2023

Keep an eye on the roads this spring for one of our reptilian friends – box turtles! Turtles are coming out of their winter dens in search of food and a mate and are common seen crossing the roads. MDC Naturalist Shelly Colatskie also tells listeners about Missouri’s most famous turtle, Peanut, and how this red-eared slider is spreading awareness in the anti-littering movement.

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Missouri Conservationist Magazine and Xplor Mar 16, 2023

MDC Magazine Manager Stephanie Thurber joins Jill this episode to discuss the Missouri Conservationist and Xplor for Kids magazines. Learn how you can subscribe to these amazing FREE publications, how the magazine has evolved through the decades, and the variety of topics covered.

Stephanie mentions her favorite Xplor story in this episode, the Wood Duck Diaries. Here’s the link to read it for yourself: https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/xplor/2012-02/wood-duck-diaries

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Winter Herp Survival Feb 16, 2023

Many wildlife species are active during the winter, but where have the reptiles and amphibians gone?! Missouri Herpetologist Jeff Briggler is back to tell us how frogs, turtles, lizards, and snakes survive the cold months. He also tells us about the latest edition of MDC’s Amphibians and Reptiles of Missouri illustrated guidebook. Check it out online at mdcnatureshop.com

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Let’s Go on a Winter Hike Jan 19, 2023

There’s still much to explore in the outdoors during winter. Bundle up, stuff your pocket with Kleenex, and head out on a trail with Jill following a snowfall! Look for wildlife tracks, get in some steps, and enjoy nature in a winter wonderland.

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Audubon Christmas Bird Count Dec 15, 2022

Celebrate our birds this holiday season through the Christmas Bird Count. US Fish and Wildlife Migratory Bird Biologist Sarah Kendrick tells us the history of the bird census, how to join, and how the data helps declining bird populations. Learn more about the Christmas Bird Count at Audubon.org

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Talkin’ Thanksgiving Turkey Nov 17, 2022

Celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday by learning more about the wild turkey. Wild Turkey Biologist Nick Oakley gives some fun facts about this gamebird you can bring to your dinner table.

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Bats of Missouri Oct 20, 2022

Feeling batty this month? Learn all about one of Halloween’s most iconic mascots in October’s episode. Jill speaks with MDC Bat Ecologist Jordan Meyer about types of bats found in Missouri, what they’re up to this time of year, and what to do if you happen to find one on your property.

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The Twins of Cape Girardeau Nature Center Sep 09, 2022

It’s getting close to Halloween season, and what better way to celebrate than learning about one of Missouri’s most unique snakes? Join Jill as she speaks with MDC Naturalist Alex Holmes about the two-headed black ratsnake at the Cape Girardeau Nature Center.

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Monarch Mania Aug 18, 2022

Butterflies are insects, but many of us think of them as something “more.” Perhaps it’s their beauty or the fact that they don’t bite or sting that makes people like them so much! Learn about the iconic monarch butterfly, their impressive migration journey, and what you can do to help support their population.

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Geese Banding Jul 21, 2022

Tag along on geese banding efforts in mid-Missouri and learn why and how MDC biologists place waterfowl identification bands on Canada geese.

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Revisiting Paddlefest Jun 16, 2022

In June’s episode, we’re revisiting a Paddlefest event held at the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary near St. Louis. We talk to multiple participants, re-learn some basic paddling techniques, and even hear the history of the area from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

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Itchy & Scratchy Summer May 19, 2022

In this episode of Nature Boost, we’re discussing deterrents many people face when it comes to a Missouri summer – poison ivy, mosquitos, and ticks. Jill speaks with Runge Nature Center Manager Kevin Lohraff for tips on how to enjoy the outdoors without letting these plants and bloodsuckers ruin your time. This episode also explores how these unpopular members of nature contribute to the ecosystem.

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Forest Park Owl Prowl Apr 21, 2022

Nature is everywhere – including in downtown St. Louis! Join Jill as she takes an owl prowl with Naturalist Mark Glenshaw, who has been observing a Great-Horned Owl in Forest Park since 2005! Learn all about this species, and even how to spot owls in nature on your own! Be sure to learn more about the Forest Park owls by following Mark on Twitter at @forestparkowls

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Plant Natives for Spring! Mar 17, 2022

Get your yard spring-ready and plant natives! Get tips from MDC Native Landscape Specialists Alix Daniel and Cydney Ross and watch your yard bloom with color and wildlife this year!

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The Ancient Sport of Falconry Feb 17, 2022

You ever see those hawks sitting along highways or atop the trees? Some people use them to hunt small game! Learn about this ancient way to hunt as Jill speaks with Master Falconer Meagan Duffee-Yates and accompanies her on a duck hunt with her peregrine falcon, Sidewinder.

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Maple Sugaring Jan 20, 2022

Got a sweet tooth? Then this episode is for you! January and February are great times to get outdoors and taste one of the forest’s sweetest gifts – maple syrup. Jill talks with Rockwoods Reservation’s Amy Wilkinson to learn how to tap sugar maple trees to make syrup. Find maple sugaring events and information at moconservation.org!

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Winter Eagle Watching Dec 16, 2021

Discover nature this season through eagle watching! Join Jill as she speaks with MDC Resource Scientist Janet Haslerig about why winter is the best season to view bald eagles in Missouri. Jill also shares Christmas tree care tips and ways you can recycle your tree after the holidays.

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MDC K-9 Ride-Along Nov 18, 2021

MDC’s Protection Unit recruited the help of five four-legged officers over the last year. Learn how these canine officers help conservation agents in investigations and outreach programs as Jill rides along with Agent Susan Swem and her partner K-9 Astro.

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Missouri's Fall Color Oct 21, 2021

Fall is finally here, but have you ever wondered why leaves change color? Jill gets the scoop from MDC Community Forester Ann Koenig, who explains how leaves turn and the best time to see fall foliage in Missouri. Be sure to check out MDC’s Fall Color Forecast to learn more at mdc.mo.gov/fallcolor

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Floating the Missouri and Mississippi Confluence Sep 16, 2021

Floating Missouri’s streams is a fantastic way to unwind and get a nature boost. In this episode, Jill joins certified paddling instructors Bob Virag, Craig Heaton, and Perry Whitaker for a float on the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Get tips from the experts to make the most out of your next float trip, and even hear the story about how one of these guys attempted to break a kayaking world record!

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Fishing Aug 19, 2021

Discover nature through fishing! Learn the basics from MDC’s wildlife artist and avid bass angler Alexis “AJ” Joyce. Learn about best times to wet a line, how to handle fish, and why MDC’s Mo Outdoors app is a great fishing companion!

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Family Camping Tradition Jul 15, 2021

Head out on a bluff trail and into the crystal-clear waters of the Huzzah with the Newenhaus family from St. Louis. Their camping tradition spans sixty years, and they are sharing their adventures, and what keeps the generations together and returning every year.

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Native Creatures: The Indigenous Mammals and Birds of Missouri Jul 01, 2021

As Missouri celebrates its bicentennial in 2021, an art exhibition at the State Historical Society of Missouri is shining a light on the animals that inhabited the area at the time it became a state 200 years ago. Join Jill as she speaks with Curator of Art Collections Joan Stack about the images from John James Audubon and Charles Schwartz, and how changing landscapes throughout the years have impacted native wildlife. The exhibition runs through July 16.

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Camping Jun 17, 2021

Tune in and learn everything you need to know to prepare for your next camping trip! Jill speaks with Springfield Nature Center Manager Rudy Martinez, who gives listeners tips on gear, food, activities, and great places in Missouri to set up camp.

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Nature Photography May 20, 2021

Tune in with Jill as she talks with one of MDC’s staff photographers, David Stonner about his journey into nature photography, how Missouri is blessed with so many incredible conservation areas, plus a few tips anyone can use to get out and discover nature photography.

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Nature Boost - Episode 14: Morel Hunting Apr 15, 2021

Join Jill as she sets out on a quest to find the elusive morel mushroom. She’s joined by MDC State Botanist Malissa Briggler, who gives her expertise on when and where to find these tasty morsels as they pop up during early spring!

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Nature Boost - Bonus Episode: Tracking Copperheads Mar 18, 2021

Most people stay clear of snakes, but one team of researchers is on the hunt for one of Missouri’s most elusive species: the eastern copperhead! Jill interviews researchers at Powder Valley Nature Center and learns about their tracking efforts to better understand copperhead populations around the Kirkwood area.

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Nature Boost - Mini Boost: Bird is the Word! Jan 26, 2021

State Ornithologist Sarah Kendrick joins Nature Boost for round 2 on Missouri’s birds. She tells us why many populations are sadly in decline, but gives us tips on how we can each do our part to help reverse those numbers. Sarah also gives us good tips on winter bird watching, and why the cold season is a great time to pick up the hobby!

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Nature Boost - Season 2, Episode 4 - Snakes Nov 09, 2020

Missouri Herpetologist Jeff Briggler talks to Jill about what types of snakes you can encounter in Missouri, and why respect – not fear – is the best approach to these cool reptiles.

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Nature Boost - Season 2, Episode 3 - Elk Oct 29, 2020

Did you know Missouri has an established elk population? Cervid Biologist Aaron Hildreth gives Jill a tour of Peck Ranch Conservation Area, where Missouri’s elk roam!

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Nature Boost - Season 2, Episode 2 - Birds Oct 19, 2020

Jill talks with Missouri Ornithologist Sarah Kendrick on why birds are awesome! Learn some basic bird calls and how to become a birder!

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Nature Boost - Season 2, Episode 1 - Black Bears Oct 08, 2020

Join Jill as she tags along on a black bear research trip in southern Missouri with MDC Furbearer Biologist Laura Conlee. Learn about Missouri’s growing bear population and how to stay “Bear Aware”.

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Nature Boost - Mini Boost: Self-Care in Nature Aug 21, 2020

Relax and de-stress as you discover ways to incorporate nature into your self-care routine!

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Nature Boost - Mini Boost: Let's Go Hiking Aug 21, 2020

Join Jill for Mini Nature Boost about hiking! Learn some quick tips that will motivate you to get out and discover nature!

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Nature Boost - Living with Wildlife Bonus Episode Jul 21, 2020

Jill gets together with Wildlife Programs Supervisor Lauren Hildreth and MDC Wildlife Damage Biologists Daryl Damron and Josh Wisdom to discuss how we can live in harmony with the natural world.

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Nature Boost - S1 Nature & Health - Ep 4 Good Chemis-tree Apr 24, 2020

Jill speaks to MDC’S Trees Work Campaign Coordinator Holly Dentner and Sarah Crowder with the Heartland Tree Alliance to find out how their programs are improving Missouri’s communities one tree at a time.

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Nature Boost - S1 Nature & Health - Ep 3 Blue Space Apr 23, 2020

We’ve heard about how “Green Space” is great for health, but what about our lakes and rivers? This episode features MDC’s Stream and Watershed Chief Sherry Fischer and explores how clean and healthy waterways impact our health.

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Nature Boost - S1 Nature & Health - Ep 2 Bee Kind Apr 22, 2020

Jill talks to MDC Urban Wildlife Biologist Erin Shank and St. Louis University Biology Professor Dr. Gerardo Camilo to discuss the vital role bees play in our nutrition.

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Nature Boost - S1 Nature & Health - Ep 1 Getting Back to Our Roots Apr 16, 2020

Join host Jill Pritchard as she discusses nature’s effect on our well-being with Jefferson City-based Wellness Practitioner Dianna Richardson. Also featured is St. Louis radio personality, Jeff Burton, who shares how hiking changed his life for the better.

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