The Wandering Naturalist

Episode 233: Ripples in the Wetlands - Muskrats Management Feb 05, 2025

Our Wildlife Supervisor Steven Hogg joins us to discuss his love for muskrats, their impacts on wetlands, and the balance Three Rivers has to find for managing an animal that is key to wetland health and also has a knack for impacting humans.

Episode 232: Ripples in the Wetlands - Muskrats and Cattails Feb 05, 2025

Dr. Adam A. Ahlers from Kansas State University wanders with us as we discuss his research in Minnesota on muskrats. Through relocation studies, preferred diet studies, and other research he has been working to determine how invasive hybrid cattail and muskrats impact each other.

Episode 231: Ripples in the Wetlands - Muskrats 101 Feb 05, 2025

What exactly is a muskrat and why has such a small creature been connected to international trade, World War 2, and the survival of wetlands? Join Brandon and Angela as they follow ripples in history and water and find their source- muskrats.

Episode 230: Echoes of the Woodpeckers - Red-headed Woodpeckers Jan 01, 2025

Red-headed Woodpeckers are a strikingly beautiful and increasingly rare woodpecker. Join us as Dr. Elena West from the University of Minnesota discusses her research on how to improve habitat to help their populations. From studying fledglings in the nest to determining what kind of trees need to be present around nesting trees, she is providing a roadmap to restoring these woodpeckers.

Episode 229: Echoes of the Woodpeckers - Thriving in the Suburbs Jan 01, 2025

Dr. Jorge Tomasevic, Research Coordinator at Austral University of Chile, joins us to talk about the research he did in Seattle on whether Pileated Woodpeckers can survive in the suburbs or not. He was shocked at how much they thrived. Join us to find out why they can thrive near us and hear stories of Cooper's Hawks, garbage trucks, and other obstacles to his research.

Episode 228: Echoes of the Woodpeckers - From Beak to Toes Jan 01, 2025

Start season 7 off with a bang! Literally, as Angela and Brandon explore how all of a woodpeckers adaptations are connected, allowing them to bang their head 12,000 times a day. Wander with us as we explore why they do that and how they survive.

Episode 227: Dragonfly Festival Live - Audience Questions Dec 18, 2024

Wander with us as our audience asks questions and Angela and Ron answer them. What is one of Ron's most memorable dragonfly experiences? Can we see all of the colors on a dragonfly? Can you make dragonfly habitat at home?

Episode 226: Dragonfly Festival Live! Dec 18, 2024

As season six comes to a close we look back at a summer highlight of the Big Year of Bugs. Join Angela at Eastman Nature Center’s Dragonfly Festival as she talks to Ron Lawrenz, founding and current board member of the Minnesota Dragonfly Society, in front of a live audience. Why do Plain's Emeralds live near Eastman? What is the cultural significance of dragonflies? Wander with us to find out!

Episode 225: Getting Squirrely - A Hmong Perspective Dec 04, 2024

Kao Thao, Outreach Naturalist from Fort Snelling State, wanders with us to discuss the history of squirrel hunting in Hmong Culture and why this makes squirrel hunting just as important as deer hunting for them. He shares how squirrel hunting gets the entire family outside, challenges to hunting and some possible answers from technology, and what he hopes for the future. We even get some squirrel cooking tips!

Episode 224: Getting Squirrely - City Squirrels Dec 04, 2024

Why do squirrels do so well in our cities and suburbs? Doctorate student Charlotte Devitz from the University of Minnesota joins us to talk about her research trying to answer this question. From chipmunks realizing her live traps are nice safe shelters to finding squirrels taking food from one house's trash and caching it in another house's mailbox, Charlotte shares her stories of researching squirrels in the Twin Cities and some of the reasons why they do well in cities.

Episode 223: Getting Squirrely - What is a Squirrel? Dec 04, 2024

Wander with us as we head into the treetops and explore the unique world of tree squirrels! Why are they so good at getting into your bird feeders? Do they really need to keep chewing on things or die? What happens if they fall from a plane? Come with us as we explore the unique adaptations all squirrels have, and some of the specific skills Minnesota's three tree squirrels have as we answer these questions.

Episode 222: Veterans in Nature - A Personal Story Nov 06, 2024

Daniel and Amanda Crawford share their personal story of how the trauma from Daniel's service in the Marine Corp impacted their family, and how 23rd Veteran helped him in living a happier, healthier life. Daniel shares the struggles he went through and what his path to his current life took. Amanda shares what she learned as she supported Daniel through his journey.

Episode 221: Veterans in Nature - 23rd Veteran Nov 06, 2024

Joining us from 23rd Veteran is the Executive Director Mike Waldron and the Program Manager Matt Rosky. They share with us how their personal experiences have shaped 23rd Veteran, how the 14 week program works, and why nature helps veterans living with trauma live happier, healthier lives.

Episode 220: Veterans in Nature - Why Nature Helps Continued Nov 06, 2024

We are back to finish our conversation with Brandon Harding as he talks about the successes, he saw in using nature to cope with trauma. Find out why shared suffering played an important role, and why Brandon prefers the term Combat Stress Injury to PTSD.

Episode 219: Veterans in Nature - Why Nature Helps Nov 06, 2024

Veterans and active-duty military members can struggle with trauma from their service. Former military chaplain Brandon Harding joins us to discuss what inspired him to start using nature as part of the retreats he led to help veterans and active military members cope with that trauma.

Episode 218: Intriguing Bats of Minnesota - Endangered Species Oct 02, 2024

The Northern Long-eared Bat is a Federally Endangered Species. Jill Utrup from USFWS manages the recovery team for the Northern Long-eared Bat. She talks with us about what it takes for a species to be federally listed, how that changes its protections, and the work done to help the species recover.

Episode 217: Intriguing Bats of Minnesota - White-nose Syndrome Oct 02, 2024

Dr. Christine Salomon from the University of Minnesota joins us to discuss her research on controlling white-nose syndrome. Come spelunking with us as we learn what it is, why it is so dangerous, and possible hope for the future.

Episode 216: Intriguing Bats of Minnesota - Not so scary Oct 02, 2024

It's spooky season and Melissa Boman with the MN DNR joins us to talk about the creature of the night, bats! From what bats live in Minnesota, to how they survive winters, and the adaptations that should make you say "cool" instead of "eww" we soar through the night listening for bats.

Episode 215: Sustaining Oaks - From Acorn to Oak Sep 04, 2024

We are joined by Missy Anderson, Propagation Specialist at Three Rivers Park District to talk about how they grow acorns into mighty oak sapling that are planted around the park district. What makes a good acorn? Do mast years have an effect? How do you grow thousands of oaks a year? Wander with us to find out.

Episode 214: Sustaining Oaks - Oaks in our Parks Sep 04, 2024

Dan Comerford, Forestry Supervisor at Three Rivers Park District, walks us through how oak trees are managed in Three Rivers' parks. From dealing with oak diseases to determining where they are planted, learn what goes into caring for the oaks you can walk by in our parks.

Episode 213: Sustaining Oaks - The Most Powerful Plant Sep 04, 2024

Dr. Doug Tallamy, famous author, professor, and more wanders with us to discuss the one plant that can have the biggest impact in your yard, oaks. We discuss why oaks are such a powerful plant for biodiversity and turning your yard into a refuge for wildlife.

Episode 212: The Hopping Orchestra - Minnesota Locust Plagues Aug 07, 2024

A swarm of wings that darkened the sky. Millions of bodies on railroad tracks that kept the trains from moving. Crops, clothes, and anything else organic eating. The Minnesota Grasshopper Plagues of the 1870's devastated the immigrants and settlers in the area. Zack Mohlis from Three Rivers' History Team joins us to discuss the Grasshopper Plagues.

Episode 211: The Hopping Orchestra - Grasshopper Songs Aug 07, 2024

Dr. Hojun Song, from Texas A&M University's Department of Entomology discusses his research on how grasshopper songs have evolved. From cricket calls that evolved before ears to grasshoppers evolving ears to help them swarm, wander with us as we study the hopping orchestra.

Episode 210: The Hopping Orchestra - Backyard Grasshoppers Aug 07, 2024

Hop along with us as Marissa Schuh a University of Minnesota Extension Educator joins us to explore the common grasshoppers in the Twin Cities area, and what makes them special.

Episode 209: Return of Fading Butterflies - Preparing for Butterflies Jul 03, 2024

John Moriarty, Senior Wildlife Manager at Three Rivers Park District, returns to talk about how you prepare to reintroduced a rare or endangered butterfly. From planting thousands of host plants to working with Federal Agencies, wander with us as we see what goes into restoring what's been lost.

Episode 208: Return of Fading Butterflies - Sanctuary in Army Bases Jul 03, 2024

Land management or stewardship is a complex task, especially when you are managing nature on an Army Base. Jessup Weichelt, Land Manager at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin joins us to talk about managing habitat for rare and endangered butterflies, and what makes Army Bases so uniquely suited to this.

Episode 207: Return of Fading Butterflies - Minnesota Pollinators Jul 03, 2024

What is a state pollinator coordinator? Rebecca Gutierrez-Moreno, the State Pollinator Coordinator with the Environmental Quality Board, wanders with us to discuss this and explore how pollinators, especially butterflies, are doing in Minnesota.

Episode 206: Hidden Depth - Invasive Species Jun 05, 2024

Dr. Dan Larkin from the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology at the U of M discusses invasive aquatic species, issues with current control methods, and how we can better work to improve treatment of them while protecting native plants.

Episode 205: Hidden Depth - Three Rivers Plants Jun 05, 2024

Justin Valenty from our Water Resources team joins us to dive into how they monitor aquatic plants in the park district and some cool management techniques they are doing. This includes some rare Minnesota plants you can see in Three Rivers' parks!

Episode 204: Hidden Depth - Water Plants Jun 05, 2024

Brandon faces his fears and dives with Angela below the water to explore the plants that call lakes, ponds, and rivers home. Donna Perleberg, Aquatic Plant Ecologist from the Minnesota DNR, talks with us about native plant species. We learn about the different type of plants living in the water, including a predatory plant!

Episode 203: Secrets of the Soil - Bugs in the Soil May 01, 2024

Sabrina Celis and Emily Althoff, graduate students at the University of Minnesota and members of Frenatae join us to learn about the bugs that keep soil healthy. From tiny springtails to animals with way too many legs, join us to learn about the different kinds of bugs and what they do in the soil.

Episode 202: Secrets of the Soil - Keepers of the Soil May 01, 2024

Alex Romano from the Land Stewardship Project joins us to talk about how farmers are leading each other to sustainable practices and healthy soil. How can farmers teach each other sustainable soil practices and does it benefit them? Wander with us to find out.

Episode 201: Secrets of the Soil - Jumping Worms May 01, 2024

Dr. Lee Frelich Director of the Center for Forest Ecology at the University of Minnesota wanders with us as we discuss what makes forest soil healthy around the Twin Cities. We discuss the impacts invasive earthworms have had on soil, and how a new species of earthworm, the jumping worm, is expected to impact forests.

Episode 200: Talking Turkey - Hunting Wild Turkey Apr 03, 2024

Meg Duhr, Three Rivers Invasive Species Supervisor and participant of Becoming an Outdoor Woman or BOW, and her BOW mentor Kathy Von Bank join us to discuss hunting Wild Turkeys, barriers to being able to hunt and how the DNR program BOW helps remove those barriers.

Episode 199: Talking Turkey - Managing Game Birds Apr 03, 2024

Nate Huck, Resident Game Bird Specialist, and Timothy Lyon, Research Scientist and Upland Game Project Leader, both from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources wander with us to discuss the history of the introduction of Wild Turkeys in Minnesota, the ecological balance of managing a game bird, and research currently being done.

Episode 198: Talking Turkey - Dispelling Myths Apr 03, 2024

Angela and Brandon go on their own hunt to figure out fact and fiction on the topic of turkeys. Can turkeys fly? How did they get their name? Did Benjamin Franklin really want them to be the national symbol of the United States? Tune in because the answers are beyond belief!

Episode 197: Women and Wilderness – Land for Healing Mar 06, 2024

Teaching and engaging with nature takes many forms, from film, writing, creative art, and much more. Local writer, organizer, and film producer, Erin Sharkey, joins to discuss the power of nature in unearthing black history and memory, how we are guided by relationship building between people and the land for healing.

Episode 196: Women and Wilderness – Sparks of Hope Mar 06, 2024

Connecting everyone with the outdoors and wilderness continues to evolve, those stepping in to continue the legacy of outreach is changing, creating a spark of hope ahead to everyone feeling they belong. Interpretive naturalist, Katie Frias, shares how this force of change can come from educators to create a bright future of stewardship.

Episode 195: Women and Wilderness – Changing Outdoor Paths Mar 06, 2024

Working in any aspect of the outdoors is rewarding to most, fresh air and endless curiosity. Join Angela, Brandon, and guest co-host Charity, as they talk with returning guest, Judy Voigt-Englund on her career working outdoors as a part of the wildlife team at Three Rivers and then later as an educator at our very own The Lowry Nature Center.

Episode 194: What's Love Got To Do With It - Symbiotes with The Land Feb 07, 2024

Can humans and the land be in a mutualistic relationship? Jenna Grey-Eagle and Gabby Menomin from Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi share their thoughts on why we are, how approaching our relationship with the land as a mutualistic relationship benefits both us and the land, and how this view point impacts their work at Wakan Tipi Awayankapi.

Episode 193: What's Love Got To Do With It - Cultural Bias in Science Feb 07, 2024

Dr. Patricia Ononiwu Kaishian, Curator of Mycology at the New York State Museum talks with us about how cultural biases impact how we study things like symbiotes. We discuss how the tools of science help us understand the world until they become dogmatic, and how to avoid those pitfalls in science.

Episode 192: What's Love Got To Do With It - The Good, The Bad, and The Heartbroken Feb 07, 2024

Brandon and Angela explore the spectrum of symbiotes. From mutualistic relationships that are like you and your friend making each other better, to that one friend that just takes and takes, a.k.a. the parasite, and everything in between wander with us as we figure out the complex relationships that make up the world.

Episode 191: Bugs are Friends - Even in Your House Jan 03, 2024

Dr. Holly Menninger executive director of the Bell Museum wanders with us to discuss her research on the bugs found in your homes! Why are they there? What are they? Should you be worries? Learn all about the amazing variety of insects that share your home.

Episode 190: Bugs are Friends - A Bug Library Jan 03, 2024

Dr. Robin Thomson the curator for the University of Minnesota Insect Collection joins us to talk about what running a bug library is like. With insect collections from the late 1800's to today, the Insect Collection provides an invaluable resource for studying bugs. From unidentified specimens, to figuring out how to organize a collection like this, a lot goes into running it.

Episode 189: Bugs Are Friends - What is a Bug? Jan 03, 2024

It is BYOB! Big Year of Bugs. The coordinator for the year, Bailey Kaul, joins us to discuss why Three Rivers is celebrating bugs for a year, the diversity of bugs, what bugs are, and why they are important.

Episode 188: TEK - Bringing Back Fire? Dec 06, 2023

White Earth Band of Chippewa member and Fond du Lac fire program manager Damon Panek as well as Rachel Olesiak, Research Plot Coordinator for the U of M Cloquet Forestry Center join us to talk about how the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the Cloquet Science Center partnered to bring back cultural fire for the first time in 100 years. The Cloquet Science Center stopped Ojibwe from practicing their fire management 100 years ago to preserve the forest. Rather than preserving the forest, the lack of fire drastically changed it. Learn how this partnership uses TEK and Western Science to restore the Red Pine forests to what they used to be.

Episode 187: TEK - Understand Native Minnesota Dec 06, 2023

Rebecca Crooks-Stratton, Secretary/Treasurer of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community and leader of the Understand Native Minnesota campaign joins us to discuss why the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is working with Minnesota teachers to improve education in K-12 schools about Native history.

Episode 186: TEK - What is TEK? Dec 06, 2023

Dr. Deondre Smiles, member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Assistant Professor at the University Of Victoria, Canada and his graduate student Aidan Gowland wander with us as we learn what Traditional Ecological Knowledge is, Western history with removing or co-opting the knowledge, and how Indigenous People are reclaiming it. We discuss why this knowledge is important and how parks are working with Native Nations to manage land using it.

Episode 185: Warm Winters - A Personal Story Nov 01, 2023

Leslee Gutiérrez Carrillo is a local climate activist who joins us to share her personal story about why and how she has worked to combat climate change in Minnesota and how she deals with the stress and anxiety caused by climate change.

Episode 184: Warm Winters - Managing Parks Nov 01, 2023

As our climate changes, the ways we manage parks have to change as well. Dr. Heidi Roop, Director of the University of Minnesota's Climate Adaptation Partnership and Joshua Booker, Zone Biologist for the US Fish and Wildlife Service join us to talk about the research they are doing to develop a climate change adaptation framework for National Wildlife Refuges in the Midwest.

Episode 183: Warm Winters - Minnesota's Climate Change Nov 01, 2023

How is climate change affecting you? Brandon and Angela share stories of how the warmer winters are impacting their lives. Dr. Luigi Romolo, Minnesota State Climatologist, joins us to give specifics on how Minnesota's climate is changing, and some things you can do to help stop climate change.

Episode 182 – What Was That? - Rocky Lied to Me! Oct 04, 2023

Nighttime can bring a lot of fears of the unknown, what we can't see but can hear. Our imagination gets the best of us...but there is likely a reasonable explanation behind the various noises. One often overlooked nocturnal species is the Flying Squirrel. Michael Joyce, Wildlife Ecologist with Natural Resources Research Institute joins the podcast to put the spotlight on this nighttime creature.

Episode 181 - What was That? - Moth Magic Oct 04, 2023

Kyle Johnson, Minnesota Biological Survey entomologist, wanders with us to discuss how moths in Minnesota are surveyed. How many moths are in Minnesota, Kyle is trying to find out. Are there new to science species in Minnesota. You Betcha! Can you help moths in your backyard? Tune in to hear Kyle's advice.

Episode 180 - What was That? - Bumps in the Night Oct 04, 2023

The nights are getting longer, the aeolians of the wind creepier…What was that? Join Angela and Brandon for a night time excursion as they explore the sounds you can hear, and not hear, at night.

Episode 179 - Access Through Community - Urban Roots Sep 06, 2023

David Woods, Conservation Program Director for Urban Roots, joins us to discuss how Urban Roots in St. Paul works to encourage youth to enter careers in the outdoor field. Often Urban roots is the student's first job and Urban Roots teaches them the basics of having a job. A progressive employment model encourages the students to grow as their duties and responsibilities increase as the student's work capacity increases. Learn how this organization is helping increase diversity in the outdoor field.

Episode 178 - Access Through Community - Birdability Sep 06, 2023

Birdability was created to help everybody bird. Virginia Rose, founder, and Michael Hurben, Birdability's local representative join us to discuss what Birdability is, why it is important to people with disabilities, and how Birdability provides resources for people with disabilities to bird.

Episode 177 - Access Through Community - How do Community Groups Help? Sep 06, 2023

Asha Shoffner, founder of FIWYGIN (Fusion) Outdoors and BIPOC Outdoors Twin Cities joins us to discuss the importance of having groups people can identify with to get them outside. She talks about why she created two different groups in the Twin Cities and how they meet the needs of two different groups of people.

Episode 176 - It's Not A Carp - The Gar Guy Aug 02, 2023

Did Brandon meet his match on puns? Find out as Dr. Solomon David, an aquatic biologist, assistant professor of biological sciences at Nicholls State University in Louisiana, one of the leading experts on gar, and punster extraordinaire joins us to discuss one of Minnesota's strangest fish, gar. From their strange shape, to studying their scales for use as body armor, to the behind the scenes of crafting a legislative bill to protect an animal, this pun filled episode is one you don't want to miss.

Episode 175 - It's Not A Carp - Minnesota's Fish Aug 02, 2023

Tyler Winter, River Ecologist and Director of Native Fish for Tomorrow, joins us as we explore Minnesota's native fish. What are some things that make them special? Can you eat them? If, like Brandon you feel a little guilty fishing can you enjoy them in a non-extractive way? Wander with us as we find out the answers.

Episode 174 - It's Not A Carp - Is it a Rough Fish? Aug 02, 2023

Dr. Andrew Rypel, Professor at the University of California Davis and the Peter B. Moyle and California Trout Endowed Chair explores the underwater world of Minnesota and explains what a rough fish is. We push our knowledge upstream as we explore the history of these fish, why they are important to our lakes and rivers, and what we can do to help these native fish.

Episode 173 - Crouching Tiger, Hidden Beetle - If you Build It Jul 05, 2023

Barry Knisley, Professor Emeritus of Randolph-Macon College & Rodger Gwiazdowski, Adjunct Professor, Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst discuss what goes into protecting tiger beetles, why it is hard to put insects on the endangered species list, and Angela has some plans for the prairie.

Episode 172 - Crouching Tiger, Hidden Beetle - What's in a Name Jul 05, 2023

David Pearson, Research Professor in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University, joins us to talk about how tiger beetle species were named, why birds were integral to his interest in tiger beetles, and how to get involved in researching them.

Episode 171 - Crouching Tiger, Hidden Beetle - The World's Fastest Insect Jul 05, 2023

Wander with us as we burrow into the world of a creature that can run so fast it can't see where it is going, Tiger Beetles! Alex Harman, PhD student at Oklahoma State University joins us to discuss the unique strategies it has as both a larva and adult to catch prey and how you can help researchers study tiger beetles.

Episode 170 - The Bug Balance - The Xerces Society Jun 07, 2023

Sarah Fultz, Senior Pollinator Conservation Specialist with Xerces Society, talks with us about the insects that help maintain a healthy garden, how you can encourage them to live in your garden, and techniques for going pesticide free.

Episode 169 - The Bug Balance - Samurai Wasps Jun 07, 2023

Jared Dyer, an entomology educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County New York wanders with us to discuss what Integrated Pest Management is, how parasitoid wasps help control unwanted species, and his research on one of those parasitoid wasps, the Samurai Wasp.

Episode 168 - The Bug Balance - Farming Without Pesticide Jun 07, 2023

Did you know Disney World doesn't use pesticides? If they don't need them, your garden doesn't either. Hope Flanagan, member of the Seneca Nation of Indians, and Community Outreach and Cultural Teacher for Dream of Wild Health joins us to discuss how they farm without pesticides. She provides a Native perspective on our relationship with insects and provides some strategies we can use in our gardens.

Episode 167 - Highway to the Nature Zone - MN DOT May 03, 2023

Ken Graeve, Erosion & Stormwater Management Unit Supervisor, and Chris Smith, Wildlife Ecologist, with the Minnesota Department of Transportation join us to discuss how the Minnesota DOT is working to make highways and other roads safer for animals, a better habitat for plants, and safer for the people who drive on them.

Episode 166 - Highway to the Nature Zone - Road Ecology May 03, 2023

Ben Goldfarb, Environmental Journalist and author of such books as award winning, "Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter" is about to release a new book, "Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet" in 2023. He wanders with us to discuss the impacts roads have on humans and wildlife, new habitats created by roads, and direct impacts to Minneapolis and St. Paul from highway construction.

Episode 165 - Highway to the Nature Zone - The Need for Green May 03, 2023

Brandon and Angela feel the need… the need for green, so they jump on the highway to the nature zone and explore what you can see as you drive to a Three Rivers park. From the large birds on light posts, to how bridges are making some birds' wings shorter, and more, learn about the nature outside your car window. Just don't buzz to close to any cell towers. After all Ghost Rider, the pattern is full.

Episode 164 - Nature Fools - Myths of the Past Apr 05, 2023

Our favorite historian is back to discuss the myths of the past! Why are beds really shorter in the 1800's? Were our parks untouched wilderness? Is Minnesota really a Scandinavian state? Find out!

Episode 163 - Nature Fools - Nature Center Edition! Apr 05, 2023

Allie Gams Beeson and Brett Sieberer join us to discuss some of the common myths they hear at the nature centers they work at. From insects predicting the weather to baby birds, wander with us to find the truth.

Episode 162 - Nature Fools - Brandon and Angela's Favorite Myths Apr 05, 2023

Brandon and Angela share some of the myths from their childhood they believed for years, then get into the meat of persistent nature myths. What's the truth about Daddy Long Legs' venom? How did Walt Disney create a brand new nature myth? Is your dog really colorblind? Wander with us as we discover the truth and look into where these myths came from.

Episode 161 – BONUS – Women and Wilderness – Breaking Trail Mar 29, 2023

Join as aspiring winter backpacker and thru-hiker, Emily Ford, shares on the remarkable journey of being the first woman to thru-hike Wisconsin's 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Hiking Trail in winter. Hear how Emily continues to seek adventure and represent the underrepresented in outdoor spaces.

Episode 160 - Women and Wilderness – Becoming an Outdoors Woman Mar 01, 2023

Learn about the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources program called Becoming an Outdoors Woman from its coordinator, Linda Bylander. Whether you're trying an activity for the first time, or you consider yourself an expert, you can gain new skills and improve techniques in a relaxed, fun, and supportive atmosphere.

Episode 159 - Women and Wilderness – Outdoor Recreation Mar 01, 2023

Engaging with the outdoors can take many forms, from hiking to skiing to kayaking, but barriers can create hesitation or doubt of your own abilities. Learn from guest, Allie Dart, Recreation Program Specialist at Three Rivers, on local opportunities for fem friendly programs, what makes them supportive, and why they are important.

Episode 158 - Women and Wilderness – Re-defining Mar 01, 2023

The relationship each of us creates and builds with wilderness is uniquely our own, but what is wilderness? Join with Angela and Brandon, featuring special co-host Sara Gaines, as they take on the deeper definition and what it means to our guest, Ebba Safverblad-Nelson who is currently living in Sweden. A worldly perspective around outdoor recreation.

Episode 157 - Black Bear, Black Bear Where Can You Live? - An Ojibwe Perspective Feb 01, 2023

Michael Waasegiizhig Price, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) specialist at the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission in Odanah, Wisconsin, joins us to give his perspective on what Black Bears mean to his Ojibwe Culture and how Ojibwe words and perspectives reframe how the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission manage wildlife compared to the western philosophy of most state DNR's.

Episode 156 - Black Bear, Black Bear Where Can You Live? - Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Mexico Feb 01, 2023

Dr. Diana Doan-Crider, Director of Animo Partnership in Natural Resources, discusses the research she is doing on Black Bears in Mexico. She talks about how she started her project with a traditional western science mindset, how she started including Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), and the way TEK helped her project succeed.

Episode 155 - Black Bear, Black Bear Where Can You Live? - Hennepin County! Feb 01, 2023

Andy Tri, MN DNR Bear Project Leader & Forest Wildlife and Populations Research Group, joins us to discuss the biology of Black Bears in Minnesota, how they are researched, and resources to help us be good neighbors to bears. John Moriarty, Senior Wildlife Manager at Three Rivers, talks to us about the Black Bears living at Elm Creek Park Reserve.

Episode 154: Snow Bugs - Antifreeze Chemistry Jan 04, 2023

Dr. Laurie Graham from Queen's University in Ontario Canada has spent 25 years studying antifreeze proteins. She talks about the evolutionary history of anti-freeze proteins, what life is like in a lab, and how you study creatures that are only 1 mm long.

Episode 153: Snow Bugs - Bugs Below Zero Project Jan 04, 2023

Dr. Rebecca Swenson and Dr. Corrie Nyquist join us from the University of Minnesota to talk about Minnesota's Bugs Below Zero project. We discuss some Minnesota specific winter active insects, why they are important and how you can help the University of Minnesota study them in a Citizen Science Project.

Episode 152: Snow Bugs - They're Super Cool Jan 04, 2023

We thought winter was safe! We were wrong… Brandon and Angela dive into the world of snow bugs, uh, we mean arthropods, to discover how they can survive and thrive on the snow. Dr. Brent Sinclair, a professor in the Biology Department at Western University in Canada shares his research on how insects, spiders, and more can live and move over the snow.

Episode 151: The Painted Duck - In Three Rivers Parks Dec 07, 2022

Steven Hogg, Wildlife Supervisor for Three Rivers, talks about the Wood Duck program's history in our parks, what has made it successful, and where you can find these ducks in our parks.

Episode 150: The Painted Duck - A Conservation Story Dec 07, 2022

Greg Hoch, author of the book With Wings Extended: A Leap into a Wood Duck's World. Joins us to talk about the history of Wood Duck conservation, how people can help Wood Ducks even if they don't live by water, and how Wood Ducks were an inspiration for aircraft carriers in World War 1.

Episode 149: The Painted Duck - Leaping into Wood Ducks Dec 07, 2022

Jeff Bahls from the National Wood Duck Society joins us to explore the fascinating world of Wood Ducks. How far of a fall can a baby Wood Duck survive? Where do they go in the winter? Why are we talking about Wood Ducks in December? Listen to find out!

Episode 148: The Future of Conservation - There's an App for That Nov 02, 2022

Chris Smith joins us to talk about an app he helped to create, HerpMapper. Designed to document reptiles and amphibians around the world, Chris explains the features that make it safe for the animals being documented and how the app helps conservation.

Episode 147: The Future of Conservation - Who's a Good Conservationist?! Nov 02, 2022

Breanne Black from Working Dogs for Conservation joins us to talk about conservation's best friend, dogs! Working Dogs for Conservation rescues dogs from shelters and trains them to perform conservation work. Whether it is searching for bumblebee nests, keeping habitats safe from invasive species, protecting rare animals from poachers, or other jobs, dogs have unique traits that help them accomplish these goals.

Episode 146: The Future of Conservation - Drones, Monarchs, and Milkweed Oh My Nov 02, 2022

Wander with us as we explore next and exciting tools being used by scientists in the field of conservation! Wendy Caldwell from Monarch Joint Venture joins us to discuss how drones and remote sensing are becoming an important tool for monarch conservation.

Episode 145: The Art of the Wandering Naturalist Oct 25, 2022

In recognition of “International Artist Day” Angela and Brandon talk with artist Michelle Davis about her artistic process and how nature inspires the wonderful illustrations she creates for the podcast.

Episode 144: Minnesota's Other State Bird - Good Mosquitos? Oct 05, 2022

Dr. Dan Peach, “Dan the Mosquito Man”, joins us to talk about his research on mosquitos, and what he calls the secret life of mosquitos. He shares the benefits that mosquitos bring to an ecosystem and why we should think twice before trying to squash one.

Episode 143: Minnesota's Other State Bird - Mosquito Control District Oct 05, 2022

Nancy Read from the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District explains what the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District is, how it evaluates when and where mosquitos need to be controlled, and what methods they use.

Episode 142: Minnesota's Other State Bird - Mosquitos 101 Oct 05, 2022

John Moriarty, Senior Wildlife Manager at Three Rivers Park District, joins us to discuss everyone's favorite insect, mosquitos! We discuss some basic mosquito biology, why some mosquitos drink blood, and what Three Rivers Park District's policy is on mosquito control.

Episode 141: Glowing Amphibians - The Salamanders of Minnesota Sep 07, 2022

John Moriarty, author of the book "Amphibians and Reptiles in Minnesota" joins us to discuss the salamanders that live in Minnesota, how new species are discovered, and the unique life strategy that several of Minnesota's salamanders have.

Episode 140: Glowing Amphibians - Wait, They Glow? Sep 07, 2022

Dr. Jennifer Lamb shares her recent discovery she made at St. Cloud State University about salamanders and other amphibians. They glow! Join us as Brandon and Angela geek out over the research and get to discover similar office decorations that Brandon and Dr. Lamb have.

Episode 139: Glowing Amphibians - What is a Salamander? Sep 07, 2022

What is a salamander? Why did a famous animated movie use a folklore of salamanders and fire instead of deciding to just let it go? How are salamanders impacting human health care? Find out as Brandon and Angela explore the double lives of salamanders.

Episode 138: The Golden Forb - Gardening with Goldenrods Aug 03, 2022

Why do goldenrods make such great additions to gardens? What kind of goldenrods should you plant? Where should you plant your goldenrods? Bre Bauerly from Minnesota Native Landscapes joins us to answer all of your goldenrod gardening questions.

Episode 137: The Golden Forb - The Misunderstood Club Aug 03, 2022

Often wrongly blamed for allergies, goldenrods are a misunderstood flower that are important for many different life stages of a misunderstood group of animals, wasps. Biologist and author Heather Holm wanders with us to explore the connections and dispel the misunderstandings for both goldenrods and wasps.

Episode 136: The Golden Forb - A Mini-Ecosystem Aug 03, 2022

Wander with Angela and Brandon as they dive head first into botany by exploring patches of goldenrods. Larry Weber, author of the Book "In a Patch of Goldenrod" joins us to discuss the mini-ecosystems these yellow fall flowers create.

Episode 135: Migratory Bird Festival - Live - Audience Questions Jul 20, 2022

In part two of our Live Podcast we answer audience questions! Do birds go through puberty? What is the meaning of life? Listen and find out!

Episode 134: Migratory Bird Festival - Live - A Cross Countries Partnership Jul 20, 2022

It's our first Live Podcast! Wilmer Fernandez, board member of Audubon Minneapolis, joins us at the Migratory Bird Festival at Eastman Nature Center to discuss the project he coordinates between Aves Honduras and Audubon Minneapolis to monitor the birds that migrate between the two areas. We discuss some of the findings that the Honduran researchers have made and what we can do to help migratory birds in both their summer and winter homes.

Episode 133: The Comeback Bird - Analyzing Results Jul 06, 2022

Dr. Ken Peterson, Professor of Biological Science at Bethel University joins us to discuss what it is like volunteering to monitor ospreys, and the results of a paper he published from the data collected by Three Rivers' volunteers and staff on ospreys.

Episode 132: The Comeback Bird - Hacking the Reintroduction Jul 06, 2022

After their extirpation from Minnesota, it was estimated that it would take until 2030 to 2080 before Ospreys naturally made it back to the Twin Cities. As of 2022 there are over 100 active Osprey nests because Three Rivers Park District reintroduced them. Listen to Judy Voigt Englund and Larry Gillette, the Three Rivers' staff who led the reintroduction, about how they returned the Osprey to our area.

Episode 131: The Comeback Bird - Ospreys Jul 06, 2022

Wander with Angela and Brandon as they explore the unique adaptations of the Osprey. This bird is the penultimate fisher, with adaptations seen nowhere else!

Episode 130: Birds of Prey - Eagle Artifacts Jun 01, 2022

Thomas Howes, Natural Resource Manager of the Fond du Lac Reservation, joins us to discuss the rules that dictate how Native People can possess and use eagle artifacts. He also discusses the work he has collaborated on to update the US Fish and Wildlife Service's rules so Native Nations can work with the USFWS to allow access to eagle artifacts that starts to better meet the needs of Native People while still protecting eagles.

Episode 129: Birds of Prey - The Raptor Center Jun 01, 2022

Lori Arent from The Raptor Center talks with us about the specialized care raptors need, and how The Raptor Center provides that. Learn about what a day is like at The Raptor Center, how to tell if a raptor is injured and needs help, and how to prevent raptor injuries.

Episode 128: Birds of Prey - Hawk Ridge Jun 01, 2022

Margie Menzies migrates (via Zoom) from Hawk Ridge to discuss what makes raptors unique, why Hawk Ridge near Duluth is one of the best raptor watching areas in the world, and how cloacal swabs are helping Hawk Ridge researchers better understand raptor habits.

Episode 127: Birds Got Rhythm - Bioacoustics Conservation May 04, 2022

Connor Wood from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology talks about how he uses sounds in animal conservation despite being tone deaf. Using passive acoustic surveys he has studied Spotted Owl populations, surveyed the entire Sierra Nevada mountains with a team of only 15, and even studied endangered toads. What is a passive acoustic survey? Will this technology make Angela obsolete? Listen and find out.

Episode 126: Birds Got Rhythm - Surveys by Ear May 04, 2022

Steven Hogg from Three Rivers Park District and Sam Safran, Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Minnesota, join us to discuss how Three Rivers Park District surveys for birds. How do you document all the birds in an area? Do you really have to wake up before dawn? Do the birds at least make you coffee? How can you use bird calls to evaluate restoration practices? All this and more will be answered.

Episode 125: Birds Got Rhythm - It's All About the Syrinx May 04, 2022

Join Angela and Brandon as they explore how birds make the complex calls that both delight and sometimes aggravate at 4 in the morning. From the syrinx, to what the calls mean, and regional accents in birds, join us as we tune in to bird calls.

Episode 124: A Synanthropic Companion - Purple Martin Care in the Park District Apr 06, 2022

Three dedicated volunteers from Three Rivers Park District discuss how they monitor and care for a purple martin colony, what they do if a storm blows a house down, and why they enjoy caring for these dazzling birds.

Episode 123: A Synanthropic Companion - From Pennsylvania to Brazil Apr 06, 2022

What does a motorized couch have to do with Purple Martins? Joe Siegrist, President and CEO of the Purple Martin Conservation Association, joins us to explain. Learn what it's like to be on an undercover stakeout in Brazil looking for Purple Martins, why Purple Martins are given fanny packs for their migration, and what research the Purple Martin Conservation Association is doing.

Episode 122: A Synanthropic Companion - Purple Martins Apr 06, 2022

Angela and Brandon discuss an animal that has become completely dependent on humans for housing, Purple Martins. Angela teaches Brandon about Purple Martin life history, the bird's relationship with humans historically, and dispels a few myths about their relationship with mosquitos.

Episode 121: Song Dog - Urban Studies Mar 02, 2022

Geoff Miller, a PhD student working with the Twin Cities Coyote and Fox Project joins us to talk about the research he is doing to shed light on what coyotes are doing in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Having found coyotes everywhere in the cities, from completely urban to city parks, he explains how the project works, why it is being done, some preliminary discoveries, and how our listeners can participate in the study.

Episode 120: Song Dog - Managing with Coyotes Mar 02, 2022

Scott Noland is a Land Manager with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. He joins us to talk about land management with coyotes, the benefits they bring to the area he manages, and how people should act when they see a coyote.

Episode 119: Song Dog - A Brief History of Coyotes Mar 02, 2022

Angela and Brandon explore the fascinating history of the largest predator in urban areas, coyotes. From it's plethora of names, to unique adaptations that let it thrive even when hunted by humans, the coyote is a misunderstood animal full of amazing attributes.

Episode 118: Fur Trade to Today - A Personal Story Feb 02, 2022

Quantina Beck-Jones joins us about her personal experiences in nature, from the time she was a kid to today. Nature has been important to her since she was a child and she shares what it means to her, why seagulls helped her connect with birds in Minnesota, and her work with Urban Bird Collective to help people overcome barriers to getting into parks.

Episode 117: Fur Trade to Today - Understanding Barriers to Park Access Feb 02, 2022

Episode 116: Fur Trade to Today - The Bonga Legacy Feb 02, 2022

Join us as Joel Brown, a professional historic interpreter, talks to us about the legacy of George Bonga and the rest of his family. One of the first African American's born in what became Minnesota, George Bonga's involvement in the fur trade and participation in several treaties helped create the Minnesota we live in today.

Episode 115: Bird is the Word – The Missing Winter Birds Jan 05, 2022

In January and the rest of our long winter, many of our Minnesota birds are not here...where do they go and what are they doing? To give us some perspective on our missing birds of the winter season, Leonal Chavez, a coffee farmer in Honduras, talks with Angela and Brandon about dedicating his land to bird conservation.

Episode 114: Bird is the Word - Dr. Sushma Reddy and Bird Evolution Jan 05, 2022

Dr. Sushma Reddy, Bell Museum's Breckenridge Chair of Ornithology, discusses what it is like managing the Bell Museum's 46,000+ bird specimens, new advances in science that has allowed the relationships between bird species to be better understood, and why the dinosaurs are not actually extinct.

Episode 113: Bird is the Word - Birding Before Minnesota was a State Jan 05, 2022

Zack Mohlis from the Three Rivers History Team joins us to talk about the history of birding in Minnesota, why a state geologist led the research on birds in the 1800's, how dead birds in the mail helped science, and his favorite lines of poetry, we mean scientific writing, from the state birds report.

Episode 112: Bird is the Word - Introduction to BYOB Jan 05, 2022

Kick off Season 4 as Brandon and Angela discuss what birding means to them, talk to Kim Nowicki of Eastman Nature Center and John Moriarty, Senior Manager of Wildlife, about Three Rivers Park District's Big Year of the Bird, and they discuss why birds are a good gateway to the outdoors.

Episode 111: The Final Frontier - NASA Ambassador Dec 01, 2021

Nadia Abuisnaineh is a NASA Solar System Ambassador. She joins us to talk about what a Solar System Ambassador is, why the night sky is so important, and a Citizen Science Project you can do to help scientists determine the impacts of light pollution using constellations.

Episode 110: The Final Frontier - A Native Perspective on the Night Sky Dec 01, 2021

We often think of Greek constellations when we look at the sky, but every culture had their own constellations and stories. James Knutson-Kolodzne and Jessica Heim of Native Skywatchers join us to share Indigenous star and earth knowledge, explain what Native Skywatchers is, and give resources so you can learn more about Dakota and Ojibwe constellations and stories.

Episode 109: The Final Frontier - Lights at Night Dec 01, 2021

Jessica Heim has a Master's in the field of Cultural Astronomy. She joins us to discuss her Master's Thesis on light pollution, what causes it, and how we can work together to reduce it.

Episode 108: The Final Frontier - Animals at Night Dec 01, 2021

Join Angela and Brandon as they explore how the final frontier, space, impacts the animals in Three Rivers Parks. From moths orbiting the light outside your house, to dung beetles setting course with the Milky Way, open your hailing frequencies, set your course for the second star on the right, and engage the podcast as we explore the night sky.

Episode 107: Old Neighbors and New Neighbors: Neighbors from Colombia Nov 03, 2021

Raul Velaquez joins us to share his immigration story. Originally from Colombia, he came to Minnesota to study engineering. He now works for the Minnesota Department of Transportation to design better roads. Hear how his connections to the land influenced his choices. A special thank you to Green Card Voices for connecting us with Dr. Raul Velaquez.

Episode 106: Old Neighbors and New Neighbors: Neighbors from Croatia Nov 03, 2021

Professor Dalma Martinovic immigrated to Minnesota from Croatia in 1996. Join us as she shares why she moved to Minnesota, her experiences here, and how our parks differ from parks back in Croatia. A special thank you to Green Card Voices for connecting us with Professor Martinovic.

Episode 105: Old Neighbors and New Neighbors: Neighbors from Switzerland Nov 03, 2021

Join us as Jayne Becker, from our history interpretation team, starts our conversation on neighbors by telling us about immigrants from Switzerland who settled in the area that is now Elm Creek Park Reserve. Their immigration story started in the 1850s, after Native Americans were forced from the land and the U.S. Government made it available for purchase. Jayne shares details on who these Swiss immigrants were and what their relationship was with the land.

Episode 104: Removed from Nature, A Real Fear - The Only Thing to Fear is…Yourself? Oct 06, 2021

Grant Armour- Recreation Program Specialist from our Outdoor Recreation School talks to us about how the greatest threat in nature is ourselves. Grant discusses the importance of knowing your boundaries and recognizing when you are in a growth state or panic state when trying recreational activities. He gives tips on how to evaluate activities in nature to make sure you are safe and prepared.

Episode 103: Removed from Nature, A Real Fear - Fear in Our Parks? Oct 06, 2021

John Moriarty, Senior Wildlife Manager, talks to us about whether we have anything to fear in our parks. We discuss what, if any animals pose threats to us in Three River's Parks; how perceived lack of control makes humans pretty bad at judging potential threats, and steps you can take in our parks to remain safe.

Episode 102: Removed from Nature, A Real Fear - A Historical Perspective Oct 06, 2021

Bill Walker, Historical Programs Supervisor, joins us to give a European historical perspective on fear of nature. Why did early American settlers fear the wilderness? Was Thoreau talking about wilderness at Walden's Pond, or something else? How did Manifest Destiny play into American's fear of nature?

Episode 101: Fall Colors to Spring Buds - Maples and Climate Change Sep 01, 2021

Dr. Rachel Putnam joins us to talk about current research on climate change's impacts on forests in North America. She then talks about her own research on how different sugar maple tree populations may adapt to climate change.

Episode 100: Fall Colors to Spring Buds - The Tree Nursery Sep 01, 2021

We are joined by Shawn Howard, Nursery Operations Supervisor, and Paul Kortebein, Senior Manager of Horticulture and Forestry to discuss how the park district raises and plants several thousand native trees and shrubs a year and the challenges of starting a native nursery back in 1970 that is still helping to restore forests in all of our parks.

Episode 99: Fall Colors to Spring Buds - What's Happening? Sep 01, 2021

Join Angela and Brandon as they discover that trees do more than just sleep during the winter. They discuss what causes fall colors, how the colors are made by the tree, what trees actually do in the winter, and what trees have to do before they can grow in the spring.

Episode 98: Mussels Matter - A Trip to the Zoo Aug 04, 2021

Liz Gilles from the Minnesota Zoo discusses the zoo's "Show Us Your Mussels Challenge", the work the zoo is doing to educate people about mussels, and research being done at the zoo to figure out how to reintroduce mussels.

Episode 97: Mussels Matter - Restoring Mussels Aug 04, 2021

Mike Davis (MN DNR) and Olivia Poelmann (Graduate Student at Clemson SC) join us to talk about how the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are studying mussels, the impacts humans currently have on them, and some of the successes they have had restoring species, including endangered ones.

Episode 96: Mussels Matter - What is a Mussel? Aug 04, 2021

Alan Holzer from Mississippi Gateway Regional Park joins us to talk about what is a mussel, their unique life story (including interesting techniques they use to get fish to host their young), and how human's history with them has resulted in mussels becoming one of the most endangered groups of animals.

Episode 95: The Rivers That Shape Us: The Crow - A Farmers Perspective Jul 07, 2021

Jerry Jennissen's farmland includes the ditch that is the official start of the Crow River. Any action he takes on his farm has a direct impact on the entire Crow River. He talks about his experience with the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program, why farming sustainably is important to him, and Angela gets to discuss how Jerry's farm makes award winning cheese.

Episode 94: The Rivers That Shape Us: The Crow - Minnesota Agriculture Water Quality Certification Program Jul 07, 2021

Brad Redlin, Manager of the Minnesota Agriculture Water Quality Certification Program from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture talks about how it is a team effort between his department and farmers to improve water quality around Minnesota. Brad Redlin explains how the Water Quality Certification works and how it is helping farmers navigate challenges to farming and result in a more sustainable farm.

Episode 93: The Rivers That Shape Us: The Crow - Keeping it Clean Jul 07, 2021

Join us as we explore the third river in Three Rivers - The Crow. Dan Nadeu joins us from Wright Soil and Water Conservation District. He explains why the Crow used to be called "the armpit of the Mississippi" and how the partnerships he has with farmers along the Crow River are integral to improve its water quality.

Episode 92: Casting a Line - Fishing in Our Parks Jun 02, 2021

Park Service Assistant Thao Vang talks to us about fishing in Three Rivers Park District, how fishing has changed over time for Hmong culture in Minnesota, and how to create a welcoming environment for people new to fishing.

Episode 91: Casting a Line - Local Fishing tips Jun 02, 2021

Nick Sacco from Three River's Outdoor Recreation School and Janine Kohn from the Minnesota DNR drop us a line to go over fishing basics such as how to get started, what equipment you might need, where to go, and proper fishing etiquette.

Episode 90: Casting a Line - Fish Habitats Jun 02, 2021

Join us as we dive under the water to explore fishing habitats with Brian Vlach, Water Resources Senior Manager at Three Rivers. Diverse aquatic habitats throughout Minnesota support a huge range of fishes, not all lakes are the same. We also discuss how climate change is impacting fish populations in Minnesota.

Episode 89: Coffee for Birds – Minnesota Roasting May 05, 2021

The great coffee migration ends back in Minnesota where we talk to Anne Costello of Peace Coffee Company, a local Minnesota roaster. Anne discusses how coffee is roasted, the environmental impacts of roasting coffee, and best practices in the coffee industry. Julia Holiday, a historical interpreter from Three Rivers joins lastly to share past coffee substitutes.

Episode 88: Coffee for Birds - Coffee Farmers' Perspectives May 05, 2021

In this episode we are joined by three coffee farmers to hear their perspective on farming everyone's favorite morning drink. Ashley Prentice in Guatemala, Gabriel Miari in Brazil, and Mario Palomo in Honduras discuss the similarities and differences of growing coffee in their different companies and steps they have taken to grow environmentally friendly coffee. Translation is done by Giannina Posner.

Episode 87: Coffee for Birds - Supporting Local Communities May 05, 2021

Amanda Eastwood of Westrock Coffee Company joins us to talk about what it is like buying coffee from farmers, how the process can support local communities economically and improve the health of farmers, and why that is important in the coffee trade. She also provides some recommendations on what you can look for on coffee labels to see if your coffee supports coffee farming communities.

Episode 86: Coffee for Birds - What's a Bird Got to do With it? May 05, 2021

Birds and coffee have more in common than just hearing both early in the morning. Many of the migrating species that call Minnesota home in the summer live on coffee farms in the winter. Learn how coffee farms impact birds and steps that can be taken to create coffee farms that have bird biodiversity as rich as actual rainforests.

Episode 85: Accessible Outdoors - Planning for Everyone Apr 07, 2021

Three Rivers believes you belong here. Making sure that "You" applies to everyone is a continual job with a lot of work going on behind the scenes to ensure our parks are accessible. Join us as we talk to Chris Boyer, Executive Director of Three Rivers Park District Foundation about what the Foundation is, and how it helps make our parks more accessible. Then, Lynn Stoltzmann, Director of Facility Services, and Designer Nate Straka, talk to us about how the Park District evaluates the accessibility of our parks and makes changes that are needed.

Episode 84: Accessible Outdoors - Adapted Programming Apr 07, 2021

Three Rivers Park District wants everybody, of any abilities, to participate in programs and enjoy experiences in a natural resourced based park setting. Sam and Tracy Tabaka from Outdoor Recreation talk to us about adapted programming and equipment in the Park District. Learn how programs are adapted to meet people's abilities, why this is important, and some etiquette on the trail when someone is using adapted equipment.

Episode 83: Accessible Outdoors - An AuSM Partnership Apr 07, 2021

Join us to discuss how Three Rivers Parks and The Autism Society of Minnesota have partnered to provide programing specifically designed for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Eric Ringgenberg, Director of Education Services for the Autism Society of Minnesota, discusses what autism is and how programming can be done differently to help participants with autism feel more welcome in our parks. Cristina Palmisano, Interpretive Naturalist from Lowry Nature Center, explains how she started the partnership and how the programs have grown in both frequency and in locations where they are offered.

Episode 82: Healing in Nature, Opt Outside Mar 03, 2021

Perspective from a retired biologist and current Three Rivers volunteer, Mike Sweet, shares his goal to get outdoors every day to enjoy the benefits of interacting with nature. He describes the welcomed surprises that evoke both feelings of relaxation and energization. As a member of Minnesota Rovers, an outdoor club, there are many opportunities to join with others in outdoor activities.

Episode 81: Healing in Nature, Soap for the Soul Mar 03, 2021

Silverwood Park of Three Rivers has an exciting first in Minnesota to share and Angela and Brandon immerse themselves in forest bathing with a certified ANFT Shinrin Yoku guide. Guests David Donovan, Silverwood Program Coordinator, and David Motzenbecker, Landscape Architect, provide further insight on healing in nature.

Episode 80: Healing in Nature, Get the Prescription Mar 03, 2021

Joining Angela and Brandon from the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Brent A. Bauer shares the science behind parks and greenspaces improving both physical health and emotional well-being. You can now be prescribed nature, listen to learn more.

Episode 79: Nature of Love - The Language of Flowers Feb 03, 2021

Why do we give roses on Valentine’s day? It has something to do with the Language of Flowers. A tradition at least as old as Shakespeare where the flowers people sent carried specific messages. Learn about the history of this tradition and a few flowers you can send messages with from Jayne Becker, Cultural Heritage Interpreter.

Episode 78: Nature of Love - The Love Life of Plants Feb 03, 2021

Wander through the Plant Kingdom as Missy Anderson, Propagation Specialist at Three Rivers Park District Nursery, joins us to discuss the love life of plants. Do trees really alternate their forms every generation like ferns do? How does plant reproduction cause you to sneeze and are humans making it worse? Join us and find out!

Episode 77: Nature of Love - "Weird" Mating Habits in the Animal World Feb 03, 2021

Join us as we give tribute to the most romantic month of the year by exploring the weird, at least to us, mating habits of the animal kingdom. From flatworms that fence to snails that shoot love darts, explore some of Brandon and Angela's favorite reproductive strategies among animals.

Episode 76: Landing into History - Modern Management Jan 06, 2021

What does it take to interpret a historic village? Cooperation between education and natural resource management. Join us as Bill Walker, Historical Programs Supervisor, and Steven Hogg , Natural Resources Supervisor, discuss how nature and history are managed at The Landing and how working together leads to a better park.

Episode 75: Landing into History - Archeology Jan 06, 2021

Join us as we talk to Anne Ketz, co-founder of 106 Group, an archeology consultation group that has worked in and around The Landing-Minnesota River Heritage Park. She discusses how archeology has revealed human use in the area of The Landing going back 3,000 years, talks about the award-winning archeology project 106 Group did in partnership with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community on the village of Tinta Otunwe, and the importance of working with Native communities as an archeologist.

Episode 74: Volunteering for at Risk and Vulnerable Species Dec 02, 2020

Gain perspective from a Three Rivers volunteer, Allison Weyer, who is making a difference with a Minnesota threatened species the Blanding's turtle. Hear how efforts of monitoring during nesting season can lead to late night adventures to protect nests from predators. Differences can be made even in the smallest actions of environmental stewardship.

Episode 73: Protecting at Risk and Vulnerable Species Dec 02, 2020

The metropolitan Twin Cities area is home to more than half the citizens of Minnesota. Despite this factor wildlife is still diverse partly thanks to progressive open space planning. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Nongame Specialist, Erica Hoaglund, joins to share what makes this central region unique and the challenges of conservation.

Episode 72: Discovering at Risk and Vulnerable Species Dec 02, 2020

Wildlife supervisor of Three Rivers, Steven Hogg, joins hosts Brandon and Angela to discover at risk species that call our parks home. Learn which species have found their own way to restored habitat and those that were reintroduced such as the Regal Fritillary butterfly.

Episode 71: Fire to Frost - A Prairie Story Across Minnesota Nov 04, 2020

Take a journey out of our own local restored prairies of Three Rivers and expand to the entire state of Minnesota. To think big picture guest Megan Benage with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources shares her connection to the prairie and how it's all about balance and diversity.

Episode 70: Fire to Frost - A Prairie Story of Restoration Nov 04, 2020

Wildlife staff from Three Rivers, Brian Fredlund and Mitch Haag, join to talk about using prescribed fire on restored prairies. Learn more on how managed fires help a prairie ecosystem and whether or not you can bring marshmallows.

Episode 69: Fire to Frost - A Prairie Story of Seasons Nov 04, 2020

Minnesota once was home to 18 million acres of prairie habitat but today only a little over 1 percent of native prairie remains. Protecting and recreating grassland is one of the most critical environmental challenges facing Minnesota. To highlight this unique habitat hosts Brandon and Angela take listeners through the seasons of the most endangered ecosystem, the tallgrass prairie.

Episode 68: It Came From the Bottom of the Web - Spider Research and You Oct 07, 2020

How many species of spider are in Minnesota? Chad Heins, Professor at Bethany Lutheran college can answer that question, now thanks to help from citizen scientists and iNaturalist. Learn how you can help with his research using your smart phone.

Episode 67: It Came From the Bottom of the Web - Spider Webs and Spider Brains Oct 07, 2020

Larry Weber, author of multiple books including "A Guide to Webs and the Spiders that Make Them", joins us to discuss his love of spiders, their webs, and even ones that stay alive and active under the snow. Dr. Anthony Aletta talks to us about his research on spider brains and why his knowledge of spider intelligence might not make him the best guest at a baby shower.

Episode 66: It Came From the Bottom of the Web - Spiders 101 Oct 07, 2020

Angela and Brandon share stories of getting up close and personal with spiders. Monica Rauchwater from Richardson Nature Center joins to cover spider basics and to clear up their scary misunderstandings.

Episode 65: Fungi are The Life of the Party: Grow Your Own! Sep 02, 2020

Join us as Susan Storck from Gale Woods Farm talks about why they have a mushroom forest. She gives tips on how to start growing your own mushrooms to eat at home.

Episode 64: Fungi are The Life of the Party: Fungal Invaders Sep 02, 2020

Angie Smith, Director of Natural Resources, and Dan Commerford, Forestry Supervisor, join us to talk about why harvesting wild mushrooms in our parks is discouraged, fungi with negative impacts on our parks, and how they are combatting Oak Wilt and Dutch Elm Disease.

Episode 63: Fungi are The Life of the Party: Exploring a Kingdom Sep 02, 2020

Aside from an amazing musical rendition by Brandon, we explore what makes fungi so unique. From acting as recyclers in nature to infecting hosts, and even connecting trees in a Wood Wide Web, we explore how fungus affects our natural world.

Episode 62: Mexico to Minnesota: Monarchs from a Chicano Point of View Aug 05, 2020

Gain cultural perspective on monarchs as Chicana Professor Karen Mary Davalos, Chair of the Chicano and Latino Studies Department at the University of Minnesota, shares how Chicano/Chicana/ChicanX artists are inspired by this powerful butterfly. Jesus Ramirez shares how his Chicano culture and the monarch helped him go through a metamorphosis in life, from gang member to an educator, now working with people across the country to connect students with their own Chicano culture.

Episode 61: Mexico to Minnesota: Tagging and Planting Aug 05, 2020

Naturalist Jim Gilbert joins us to tell the story of how a monarch his students tagged confirmed for scientists where Minnesota's monarchs migrated. Arla Carmichael, Horticulture Operations Supervisor for Three Rivers Park District, discusses what you can plant in your garden to help monarchs and other pollinators.

Episode 60: Mexico to Minnesota: Piecing Together the Monarch Migration Aug 05, 2020

One of the most recognized insects in the world sparks curiosity of its great multi-generational migration, the Monarch butterfly. Join Angela and Brandon to learn how and why this mighty flyer make the trips back and forth between Mexico and Minnesota.

Episode 59 - Minnesota’s Agriculture: From the Past to the Future - Sustainability Jul 01, 2020

Join us as we talk with Tim Reese and Mellissa Hochstetler of Gale Woods Farm about what practices they use to make their farm sustainable and how you as a consumer can help farmers transition to more climate friendly farming practices.

Episode 58 - Minnesota’s Agriculture: From the Past to the Future - The Rise of Dairy Jul 01, 2020

Elise Bushard of Lowry Nature Center and Historical Interpretation Supervisor Bill Walker join us to tell the story of how one man created the dairy industry in the Midwest. Wendalin Grimm bred the first winter hardy alfalfa, making commercial dairy in the Midwest profitable. Listen to learn why you should thank him for Packers' cheese hats, butter sculptures, and cheese curds.

Episode 57 - Minnesota’s Agriculture: From the Past to the Future - Learning from Native Elders Jul 01, 2020

Brandon and Angela sit down with Seneca Elder Hope Flannigan to learn how Native farming was practiced before Europeans reached Minnesota. Hope explains the difference between the wild plants and domestic plants, how Dream of Wild Health is using Native farming techniques today, and what we can learn from Native farming to make a more sustainable future.

Episode 56 - A Light in the Dark - Citizen Science and Fireflies Jun 08, 2020

Climate change may increase the number of species of fireflies in Minnesota as our growing season gets longer, but habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticide use are all making the number of fireflies decrease. Learn how to help scientists collect data on this as we discuss the Citizen Science project Firefly Watch with one of its founders, Don Salvatore.

Episode 55 - A Light in the Dark - You Can't Handle the Truth! Jun 08, 2020

Professor Sara Lewis shares some of the knowledge she has gained from studying fireflies for over 30 years. We discuss a female firefly nicknamed a vampire that deceives male fireflies. Professor Lewis shares some of her latest research on firefly conservation and what you can do to help.

Episode 54 - A Light in the Dark - Fireflies 101 Jun 08, 2020

Angela and Brandon are joined by Miranda Jones, resident firefly expert at Eastman Nature Center. Join us as she lights up our world with facts about firefly biology, why they glow, and where you can find them.

Episode 53 - Are you my Mother? Historical and Cultural European Childcare May 06, 2020

Learn how early European settlers in the 1800s navigated childcare by listening to guest Jayne Becker from The Landing. How was the diaper invented? What games were played? Listen to find out!

Episode 52 - Are you my Mother? Historical and Cultural Ojibwe Childcare May 06, 2020

Childcare among humans has advanced across history within many cultures, but it has never been easy. Michelle Defoe of the Red Cliff Ojibwe tells us about traditions she has reclaimed after they were lost or suppressed during the Boarding School area and how she feels they have helped her in raising her children.

Episode 51 - Are you my Mother? Farm Babies May 06, 2020

Time to visit Gale Woods Farm with supervisor Tim Reese to talk all things farm babies. Tim highlights volunteer project Lamb Watch and other farm babies you may encounter on a visit to the farm. Listen to learn more about this unique working farm and what to expect on your spring trip to Gale Woods Farm.

Episode 50 - Are you my Mother? The Parental Spectrum of Nature May 06, 2020

Join Angela and Brandon as they celebrate Mother's Day by discussing the spectrum of parental care found throughout the animal kingdom. Some animals have little if anything to do with their offspring other than laying eggs. Other animals can be as involved with raising young as humans. It all depends on the species and their life strategy.

Episode 49 - Swan Song to Trumpets of Success – Current Swan Research and Rehabilitation Apr 01, 2020

Trumpeter Swans are now a common sighting in the metro area of Minnesota but still little is understood about their movements and habitat selection. David Wolfson, a current Ph. D. student at the University of Minnesota, is studying Trumpeter Swans through solar powered GPS neck collars. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (WRC) of Minnesota located in Roseville sees more than 13,000 wildlife patients annually. Trumpeter Swans are included in their long list of patients, ranging from powerline collisions to lead poisoning. Join us as we learn more from Medical Director and Senior Veterinarian, Dr. Renee Schott, on the challenges in treating swans and what you can do to help protect them.

Episode 48 - Swan Song to Trumpets of Success – A Historic Timeline Apr 01, 2020

John Moriarty, Senior Wildlife Manager at Three Rivers, helps Angela and Brandon visit the important timeline of events that starts with the disappearance of Trumpeter Swans from Minnesota but ends in reintroduction success. Learn more on this historic rehabilitation and how Three Rivers started it all.

Episode 47 - Swan Song to Trumpets of Success – Trumpeter Swan Basics Apr 01, 2020

Join Angela and Brandon to learn more about North America's largest waterfowl, the Trumpeter Swan. Learn interesting facts and basic biology behind these birds including how to identify them from other swan species.

Episode 46 - Under Pressure: Urban Sprawl - 80/20 Mar 04, 2020

Steven Hogg explains what the 80/20 policy of Three Rivers Park District is, why it is so important for managing the habitat of our park reserves, and how GIS is used to track it.

Episode 45 - Under Pressure: Urban Sprawl - To Develop or Not to Develop? Mar 04, 2020

How does the Park District decide where to put a trail and where to preserve habitat? How do we decide how each park will be developed? Join us as we talk with Johnathan Vlaming, Associate Superintendent and John Moriarty, Senior Manager of Wildlife to find out.

Episode 44 - Under Pressure: Urban Sprawl - A Spectrum of Parks Mar 04, 2020

Luke Skinner, Associate Superintendent of Three Rivers Park District, joins us to discuss how the park district has created a spectrum among its parks of parks primarily for recreation, to parks with large tracts of recreated habitat to find the balance between recreation and preservation in our parks, as well as some of the background of how those decisions are made.

Episode 43 - The Rivers that Shape Us… The Mississippi, Dams, and Birds Feb 05, 2020

Join us as Nick Beaufeaux, Maintenance Chief for Elm Creek Park Reserve and Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, discusses why Three Rivers Park District operates a dam and how t is being used to stop invasive species. National Park Service ranger Sharon Stiteler talks to us about why the portion of the Mississippi River through Minneapolis is a National River and Recreation Area and why it is important to migrating birds.

Episode 42 - The Rivers that Shape us… The Mississippi and How Geology Shaped its Use Feb 05, 2020

Matt Cassidy, Program Specialist with Minnesota Historical Society joins us to discuss how the geology of the Mississippi River has shaped the way humans have used the river for the past 10,000 years.

Episode 41 - The Rivers that Shape Us… The Mississippi and its Geology Feb 05, 2020

Join us as we discuss one of the rivers Three Rivers Park District is named after, the Mississippi River! Ashley Smith, Interpretive naturalist at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, teaches us how to read the story of the Mississippi's past. Learn how volcanoes, earthquakes, glaciers, and even a tropical vacation all helped to shape the Mississippi River.

Episode 40 - Ice, Ice, Nature - From Ice Harvesting to Ice Fishing, How Humans Use Ice Jan 08, 2020

Explore how humans interact with ice as we talk with park volunteer and Ice Harvest historian Tim Graff about how and why people harvested ice in the 1800's and how you can experience ice harvesting today. Learn how to ice fish when we talk to Brent Hennen from our Outdoor Recreation School and learn some tips for how to add as little stress to our winter fish as possible.

Episode 39 - Ice, Ice, Nature - Invasion of the Oxygen Snatchers Jan 08, 2020

How do invasive species impact life under the ice? What do they do to the oxygen? Can you do anything to help? Find out as we talk about Aquatic Invasive Species with Amy Timm, Three Rivers' Natural Resources Supervisor for Water Quality.

Episode 38 - Ice, Ice, Nature - Life Under the Ice Jan 08, 2020

Join us for the start of season two as Brandon and Angela dive into to a listener requested topic: Life Under the Ice. Explore the murky depths of a lake in the winter and learn what creatures stay active all winter, and which go dormant. Find out if its better, down where its wetter, under the ice!

Episode 37 - Winter Strategies: Turtle Habits and Human Clothes Dec 04, 2019

Join us as John Moriarty shares new research Three Rivers has participated in to find out what turtles do in the winter. It turns out it is a lot more complicated than just sleeping in the mud. Heather Gordon from the Outdoor School of Recreation joins us with tips on how to Adapt to the winter and dress to be outside so we can enjoy winter activities.

Episode 36 - Winter Strategies: Bird Banding and Winter Migration Dec 04, 2019

Did you know that Minnesota birds have 5 types of migration habits? Join us as we discuss this with Ron Refsneider, a retired biologist for the MN DNR and a Master Bird Bander. He shares with us what his Bird banding data indicates about Minnesota birds' winter habits, and gives his opinion on how our perspective on bird migration is backwards.

Episode 35 - Winter Strategies: Should I Stay or Should I Go - Getting MADD Dec 04, 2019

Wander with us as we explore how animals survive the winter. Angela and Brandon investigate three strategies that animals use to survive the winter, Migrating, Adapting, and going Dormant. Learn how these strategies work as we dig into the winter habits of Beavers, Coyotes, Birds, Butterflies, and Ground Squirrels.

Episode 34 - Buck-ing the Trend: Hunters, The Next Generation Nov 06, 2019

Ryan Barth, Outdoor Education Supervisor at Baker Near Wilderness Settlement, and Bill Vollbrecht, Golf Maintenance Supervisor at Eagle Lake Golf Course, discuss how they are mentoring children to help them learn how to hunt for deer. We discuss why it is important, the ethics of hunting when human population continues to grow and encroach on animal habitat, and how this helps promote a new generation of environmental stewards.

Episode 33 - Buck-ing the Trend: Managing Our Deer Nov 06, 2019

Special guests Steven Hogg from our Natural Resource Management Department, and Shawn Howard from our Tree Nursery join us to discuss what steps the park takes to manage the health of our parks with a large deer population. They discuss the benefits and challenges of techniques used such as hunting, exclusion fences, and smells. Wander with us as we discover why the park district manages deer and how we do it.

Episode 32 - Buck-ing the Trend: Deer 101 Nov 06, 2019

Join us as we explore the history of deer management, why it was needed, and Disney's impact on deer populations. We discuss deer habits and why we believe controlled hunts in our parks are important.

Episode 31 - Nature of Zombies: Historical Fascination Oct 02, 2019

Zach Mohlis from, The Landing – Minnesota River Heritage Park, will provide a historical perspective on where the idea of human zombies has come from. What is our cultural fascination with apocalyptic scenarios

Episode 30 - Nature of Zombies: Attack of the Zombees and Plants Oct 02, 2019

Our guests students Evie and AJ and Three Rivers Forestry Supervisor Dan Comerford, join us to investigate other real life zombies. Evie and AJ talk to us about their award winning project with Zombees. Dan shares his knowledge with how plants can become zombies. Come wander with us as we journey through the strange world of zombies.

Episode 29 - Nature of Zombies: Strange World of Animal Zombies Oct 02, 2019

Zombies are real. Zombies are everywhere, near places you would never expect. In fact, some of you may have even encountered zombies in your life, right in nature. Join Angela and Brandon to explore the very real, and awesomely creepy world of zombies including horse hair worms, fungi, and cat parasites.

Episode 28 - 50 Years of Environmental Stewardship: Looking to the Future Sep 04, 2019

Three Rivers has worked to make our parks home for surrounding communities and wildlife over these past 50 plus years. Building a foundation on educating others for a chance to nurture the interest about natural happenings in the outdoor world led to many greater things such as prairie restoration. Kirk Mona, Interpretive Naturalist, joins to discuss the present and future of Three River's mission.

Episode 27 - 50 Years of Environmental Stewardship: Planting Restored Prairie Sep 04, 2019

Listen in as Brandon and Angela journey to 1969 to explore Crow-Hassan Park Reserve and the first planting of restored prairie. Joined by Senior Wildlife Manager, John Moriarty, they dig deeper to discover the challenges faced that have now seeded the way for large scale restoration with what is now the largest, first restored prairie of the metro area. Now home to unique wildlife and a high diversity of plant life, you will want to hear this origin story.

Episode 26 - 50 Years of Environmental Stewardship: Lowry Nature Center Sep 04, 2019

The first nature center was built in 1969, Lowry Nature Center. Tag along as hosts Brandon and Angela interview Tom McDowell, retired park employee of 40 years, to explore the story of how outdoor education molded our mission of promoting environmental stewardship through recreation and education in a natural-resource based park system for the past 50 years.

Episode 25 - 50 Years of Environmental Stewardship: The Need for Parks Sep 04, 2019

To celebrate the past 50 years, Brandon and Angela are talking to special guest Bill Walker, Cultural Resources Manager of Three Rivers Park District, to discuss the how and why Three Rivers was created. 2019 marks the 50th Anniversary of Minnesota's first public nature center, the Lowry Nature Center at Carver Park Reserve. It also marks the 50th Anniversary of the first planted prairie at Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. Join them on a journey to discover this rich history and how the two are connected.

Episode 24 - Bees, Cows, and your Lunch - Native Bee Atlas Aug 07, 2019

Britt Forsberg from the University of Minnesota Native Bee Atlas shares with us how the university is discovering what native bees live in Minnesota. She also gives advice on how to provide a home for native bees around your home, and Angela and Brandon give some tips on planting for natives.

Episode 23 - Bees, Cows, and your Lunch - Farmer Tim and the Bees Aug 07, 2019

Tim Reese, Director of Gale Woods Farm, talks with us about his experience raising bees, how bee keeping has changed over the past 9 years, and how Gale Woods Farm manages to be a working farm while still using bee friendly practices.

Episode 22 - Bees, Cows, and your Lunch - To Bumblebee be or to Honeybee? Aug 07, 2019

Wander with us as Angela and Brandon investigate the differences between two different kinds of bees, bumblebees and honeybees. Though different, they both face many of the same challenges, and they both are important pollinators for our food.

Episode 21 - Here there be Dragon(flies) - Cultural Fascination to Research Subjects Jul 03, 2019

With over 149 dragonfly and damselfly species in Minnesota there is much to learn and observe. Dragonfly scientist Ami Thompson joins on this episode to talk about her study subject, the Common Green Darner, as she works towards a PhD in Conservation Biology at the University of Minnesota. Listen to learn more about this fascinating dragonfly that migrates.

Episode 20 - Here there be Dragon(flies) - Creatures of Aquatic Habitats Jul 03, 2019

Dragonflies are usually found around or near water such as lakes, ponds, streams, and wetlands because their larvae, known as "nymphs", are aquatic. Join us as we talk with Mitch Haag, a Wildlife Operations Specialist at Three Rivers Park District and founding board member of Minnesota Dragonfly Society to learn more on the importance of aquatic habitats and where you can find these beauties on the wing or in the water.

Episode 19 - Here there be Dragon(flies) - The Transformational Journey Jul 03, 2019

Summer is here and with it you likely have spent time near water, a local lake, pond, or river, which means you have also undoubtedly watched the aerial antics of dragonflies. But did you know that dragonflies live dual lives, their young are aquatic and then transform into a colorful, flying adult. Wander with us and discover this unique life cycle that spans across both land and water.

Episode 18 - A Day on the Water - 1800's and Today Jun 05, 2019

We are joined by Zach Mohlis, from The Landing-Minnesota River Heritage Park, who shares with us how people used the Minnesota River when Europeans first settled the area. We discuss how farming practices have changed since them, their impact on the river, and what we can learn from the 1800's to help our waters today. Nick Sacco from our Outdoor Recreation department shares with us many of the water based activities you can in Three Rivers, and we debate whether or not log rolling is a paddle sport.

Episode 17 - A Day on the Water - Testing Our Watersheds Jun 05, 2019

Join us as a member of our Water Quality department, John Hess, shares some of the challenges our waterways face, how he monitors them, and actions people can take at home to help keep our rivers and lakes healthy.

Episode 16 - A Day on the Water - Too Many Vitamins Jun 05, 2019

Wander with us as we dive into water and the issues that face it. How are nitrates and phosphates like vitamins? What is the difference between blue green algae and algae? What impacts does this have on our lakes? Do polar bear livers really have any connection to this? How is Damon and the rest of Three Rivers' maintenance staff changing salt use in the winter to help our water? Join Brandon and Angela as we find out.

Episode 15 - Flower Medicine and Taking Photos - April Showers, May Wildflowers May 01, 2019

Wander with us as we talk with Pauline Bold from The Landing. She shares with us some of the ways people used early spring wildflowers, including uses as medicine and food. Disclaimer, do not try to use these as food or medicine yourself. Listen to the podcast to learn why. Laura Jarriel shares her photography expertise to help us take photos of spring wildflowers with our phones.

Episode 14 - Earthworms, Buckthorn, and Flowers, Oh My - April Showers, May Wildflowers May 01, 2019

Do earthworms help or hinder flowers in the forest? How are invasive species like buckthorn impacting spring wildflowers? Join us as we talk to Missy Anderson, the Invasive Species Coordinator for Three Rivers Park District, and Alex Roth from Friends of the Mississippi to get the dirt on invasives and flowers, and discuss how you can help native flowers.

Episode 13 - Growing While It's Snowing - April Showers, May Wildflowers May 01, 2019

How can plant's grow while there is snow on the ground? Can a plant really produce its own heat? Tune in to this episode to find out as Angela and Brandon discuss the difference between a Spring Ephemeral and a Spring Wildflower, then investigate how tiny plants can grow and flower at a time when other plants dare not even show their leaves.

Episode 12 - Calls of Spring – Monitoring Frogs in the Dark Apr 03, 2019

To determine status, distribution, and long-term population trends of frogs, citizen scientists participate in surveys in which they listen and record calling frogs. In this episode we are joined by a current volunteer, Dianne Rowse, to shed some light on this unique experience.

Episode 11 - Calls of Spring – Start of a Journey Apr 03, 2019

Episode 10 - Calls of Spring – The Racket of Frogs Apr 03, 2019

The signs of spring are near and you may be hearing the calls of frogs, even with snow still on the ground. Fresh out of hibernation, join Brandon and Angela, as they journey through the biology of frogs and toads to answer what is making all that noise in spring.

Episode 9 - Wandering the Sugar Bush - Cooking with Maple Syrup Mar 06, 2019

Discover the secrets to cooking with maple syrup as Andi Anderson from Gale Woods Farm joins us to help us in the kitchen. We discuss how to substitute syrup for sugar in recipes. We also help you uncode the meaning of Grade A and Grade B syrup.

Episode 8 - Wandering the Sugar Bush - The Science of Syruping Mar 06, 2019

We talk with our Forestry Supervisor Dan Comerford about the unique structure of maple trees that allow us to turn its sap into syrup. Explore with us as we discover the science behind maple syruping and learn how climate change will impact our maple trees.

Episode 7 - Wandering the Sugar Bush - A Native Perspective on Maple Syrup Mar 06, 2019

Join us as we talk with Ojibwe students about their personal perspective and experience with maple syrup. We discuss how they maple syrup today both on a reservation and in the middle of the cities; how today's techniques differ from their ancestors; and what maple syruping means to them individually as well as culturally.

Episode 6 - Strange Calls in the Night - Owl Ambassadors Feb 06, 2019

Join us as Interpretive Naturalist Adam Barnett explains why nature centers’ keep owls as ambassadors for their wild kin. He recounts his time working with the Raptor Center, shares some of the joys and challenges of working with captive owls, and shares with us what to do if an injured owl is found.

Episode 5 - Strange Calls in the Night - Tracking Owl Nests Feb 06, 2019

Do you know where owls nest? Hear how volunteer Paul Schlick coordinates a group of volunteers to track and document owl and other raptor nests in Elm Creek Park Reserve. Paul explains why this project is important, some of the challenges they have faced, and the opportunities for partnership with the Raptor Center that his data has created.

Episode 4 - Strange Calls in the Night - Super Ears and Keen Eyes Feb 06, 2019

Join Brandon and Angela as they explore how owls can not only survive the winter, but raise their young when the rest of us are hunkered inside waiting for spring. Find out if owls have super-hearing like superman, how their eyes help them see at night, and what makes owl feathers special. Discover the adaptations that help these owls thrive in the cold.

Episode 3 - Snow and its History with Minnesota Dec 19, 2018

How did humans interact with snow before the advent of modern heating and insulation amenities? Learn all about it as hosts Brandon and Angela talk with an expert on this issue from The Landing.

Episode 2 - Snow and its Relationship with Plants Dec 19, 2018

In the second part of this series on snow, Angela and Brandon talk about the advantages and challenges snow brings to plant life.

Episode 1 - Snow and its Relationship to Animals Dec 19, 2018

In this first episode of The Wandering Naturalist, hosts Brandon and Angela provide some insight on the science of snow and how it impacts the animals who depend on the subnivean layer.

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