Natural Resources University is a podcast network focused on delivering science-based natural resource management. The series within the network include Deer University, Fire University, Pond University, and Habitat University. Funding for this podcast network is generated from the Renewable Resources Extension Act.
The Natural Resources University podcast has completely transformed my perspective on the outdoors. Before I started hunting whitetails in Northern IL in 2020, I never truly appreciated the wonders of nature. However, this podcast has opened my eyes to the intricacies and importance of habitat management and conservation. The hosts provide a wealth of information that is both data-based and unbiased, which is refreshing in a world filled with misinformation. Thanks to this podcast, I have developed a newfound love for the outdoors and am constantly hungry for more knowledge.
One of the best aspects of The Natural Resources University podcast is its comprehensive coverage of various habitats and species. From forests to fields, ponds to fire, and everything in between, this podcast covers it all. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just beginning to learn about habitat management, this podcast caters to everyone's needs. The hosts are incredibly knowledgeable and back up their recommendations with scientific data, which adds credibility to their discussions.
However, as much as I enjoy The Natural Resources University podcast, there are a couple of aspects that could be improved upon. Firstly, while the hosts do an excellent job at presenting management recommendations based on scientific research, they could delve deeper into practical implementation tips for listeners. It would be beneficial for them to provide more specific guidance on how individuals can actively contribute to habitat management efforts.
In conclusion, The Natural Resources University podcast is an absolute gem for anyone passionate about wildlife conservation and habitat management. It provides an immersive learning experience by presenting scientific data alongside practical recommendations. While there is room for improvement when it comes to practical application guidance, overall, this podcast offers tremendous value and has ignited a newfound passion within me for the great outdoors. Kudos to everyone involved in creating such fantastic content!
What do grasshoppers, prescribed fire, and peer pressure have in common? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jason Harmon, the new head of Oklahoma State University's Natural Resource Ecology and Management department, to find out. From his early days counting insects in Wisconsin to leading research on pollinators and rangelands in North Dakota, Dr. Harmon brings a wide-lens perspective to land management - one that blends ecology, culture, and community. Hosts John Weir, Dr. Laura Goodman, and Dr. Mark Turner chat with Dr. Harmon about everything from cattle grazing and monarch migration to how landowners manage for appearances rather than outcomes. They also explore how Oklahoma's ecological diversity - and its people - are shaping the future of conservation. Whether you're passionate about prescribed fire, curious about critters, or just love hearing smart folks talk about working landscapes, this one's for you. Takeaways Dr. Jason Harmon's background blends insect ecology with rangeland research. Cultural perceptions influence landowners' willingness to adopt ecologically diverse pastures. Fire remains an unmatched tool for managing range health and reducing woody encroachment. Oklahoma and North Dakota face different stages of similar land challenges. Pollinators are not just bees-grasslands can host hundreds of native insect species. Milkweed interactions with cattle are species-specific and under-researched. Oklahoma's ecological range-from alligators to bighorn sheep-mirrors the diversity of its management needs. Interdisciplinary collaboration enhances natural resource problem-solving. Prescribed burning is a proactive solution that prevents larger wildfire disasters. OSU's natural resource programs offer versatile career pathways through specialized tracks. Timestamps 00:02:05 – Meet Dr. Jason Harmon and his journey to OSU |00:04:01 – Insect ecology and critter-counting origins 00:06:06 – Cultural peer pressure in land aesthetics 00:13:25 – Comparing North Dakota and Oklahoma land management 00:14:59 – Prescribed fire vs. grazing for ecosystem management 00:22:00 – Calf decomposition and surprising pollinator behavior 00:27:12 – Regal fritillaries and pollinator diversity 00:29:44 – Cattle interaction with milkweed species 00:33:39 – Adjusting to Oklahoma and its colorful town names 00:36:25 – Oklahoma's ecological diversity and wild inhabitants 00:42:29 – Dr. Harmon's vision for the department 00:49:00 – Promoting collaboration and public understanding 00:52:53 – Overview of OSU's undergraduate options in natural resources Find all resources at BlazinGrazinWildThings.com
he State of Arkansas is well known for its quality fishing opportunities, particularly its tailrace trout fisheries. Although Fish University has spent several episodes discussing the self-sustaining brown trout in the Little Red River, the majority of these fisheries are supported with catchable size, hatchery produced trout. Unfortunately, the two biggest hatcheries in Arkansas experienced major issues this past spring and summer, resulting in the loss of more than a million trout. With less trout available, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission had to take drastic measures. In this episode, Wes has a conversation with Trout Biologist Christy Graham to learn about what happened at the hatcheries, what it means for the rivers, and what the future of trout fishing in Arkansas will look like. Do you have questions or comments? Follow the Fish University Facebook community and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes! Watch this episode on YouTube (here)!
Waterfowl and other birds often migrate long distances to optimize habitats for feeding and meeting. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss what triggers migration, how far species travel, and the cost and benefits associated with these long distance movements. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html Watch the podcast on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@KSREWildlife
In this episode, we discuss our recent paper quantifying turkey abundance, highlighting the Florida Wildlife Corridor and exploring how this project preserves turkey habitat amidst increasing development pressures. Paper will be linked as soon as it is released. Resources: Citizen science for turkeys Episode 119 eBird https://ebird.org/home Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation https://floridawildlifecorridor.org/ FWC Summer Brood Survey https://myfwc.com/hunting/turkey/brood-survey/ iNaturalist https://www.inaturalist.org/ Merlin Bird ID https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/ Snapshot USA https://www.snapshot-usa.org/ 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 01:23 Exploring Turkey Management and Habitat 02:48 The Impact of Human Population on Turkey Habitats 05:47 Florida Wildlife Corridor: A Case Study 11:38 Quantifying the Effects of the Corridor on Turkeys 20:47 Characterizing the Landscape for Turkeys 22:49 Understanding Turkey Occupancy and Abundance 25:09 The Impact of Human Population on Turkey Habitats 28:42 The Role of the Wildlife Corridor 31:19 Challenges Facing Osceola Turkey Populations 37:33 Management Strategies for Turkey Habitats 41:47 The Importance of Collaborative Conservation Efforts Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
In this episode of Blazin' Grazin' and Other Wild Things, we hear from Kayla Moss, Extension Assistant at Oklahoma State University, about her groundbreaking research in Oklahoma. Moss shares how she tackled the invasive sericea lespedeza using a combination of fire, herbicide, and grazing. She discusses how growing-season burns, when followed by a well-timed herbicide application, delivered the most effective long-term control - reducing sericea cover from 35% to under 1%. The episode also explores the unexpected return of native legumes after treatment, the resilience of sericea seedbanks, and the practical trade-offs producers face when balancing cattle gains with ecosystem health. Supported by co-hosts Dr. Laura Goodman, Dr. Mark Turner, and John Weir, this conversation is full of science-backed strategies, real-world challenges, and relatable advice for any land manager facing invasive species. Key Takeaways Sericea lespedeza is highly invasive, with seedbanks that can persist for decades. Growing-season fire followed by herbicide application a year later showed the most effective control. Dormant-season fire alone may increase sericea cover. Herbicide applied post-burn can reduce seed production significantly. Cattle weight gains were not negatively affected by growing-season burns. Native legumes like partridge pea and slender lespedeza can repopulate treated areas. Seed germination of sericea is extremely tough, requiring even sulfuric acid in lab settings. The cost of metsulfuron methyl herbicide is under $4 per acre. Spot spraying and drone tech may offer future precision control options. Integrated management is more practical and effective than standalone treatments. Timestamps 00:01:46 – Meet the hosts and guest, Kayla Moss 00:02:37 – Overview of Osage County research site and plant community 00:03:29 – Introduction to sericea lespedeza and its invasive history 00:05:35 – Existing research gaps and integrating fire, herbicide, and grazing 00:07:04 – Wildlife implications and Bobwhite quail case studies 00:15:13 – Breakdown of treatment methods used in the study 00:19:01 – Impact of dormant vs. growing season fire 00:25:15 – Conditions of prescribed burns and drought effects 00:33:34 – Post-treatment results on sericea cover and seed production 00:40:01 – Native legumes returning after treatment 00:44:01 – Cattle weight gain comparisons and practical advice for landowners 00:51:31 – Final thoughts and takeaways Find all resources at BlazinGrazinWildThings.com
We're bringing back our episode exploring the American chestnut's history, ecological importance, challenges faced due to habitat change and disease, on-going conservation efforts, and how you can get involved in its ecological restoration. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Diamond, S. J., et al. (2000). Hard mast production before and after the chestnut blight. Southern Journal of Applied Forestry, 24(4), 196-201. The American Chestnut Foundation The American Chestnut Foundation: Growing Chestnuts Tree Snapp App Varner, J. M., et al. (2021). Litter flammability of 50 southeastern north American tree species: evidence for mesophication gradients across multiple ecosystems. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 4, 727042. Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Sara Fitzsimmons sara.fitzsimmons@tacf.org, Website We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
While a hunt may end with the release of an arrow or pulling the trigger, what a hunter does next has important legal, food safety, and food quality implications. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss important considerations for tagging and proof-of-sex requirements, care and handling of harvested game to minimize disease transmission, zoonotic diseases to be aware of, and how to handle harvested game to maximize the quality of the meat we harvest. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html Watch the podcast on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@KSREWildlife
In this episode, we discuss how management scale and arrangement influence turkey behavior and productivity. Resources: Chitwood, M. C., et al. (2015). Do biological and bedsite characteristics influence survival of neonatal white-tailed deer?. PloS one, 10(3), e0119070. Day, M. S. (2024). Factors impacting gobbling chronology and activity of male wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) in Alabama (Master's thesis). Decreases in hen survival may explain declines | #153 Managing nesting & brooding cover | #137 Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
What makes the Great Plains such a productive agricultural hotspot? And why are some fields just more productive than others no matter what? It turns out the secret is in the soil. This month we are joined by Dr. Ray Ward, founder of Ward Laboratories, to discuss how our soils came to be and how a better knowledge of your soil can lead to healthier farms and ecosystems overall. With a PhD in Soil Fertility and personal farming experience, Dr. Ward shares how practices like cover crops and diversifying an operation can lead to massive benefits – in soil health, water quality, wildlife abundance, ecosystem health and farmer profitability. Resources: Ward Laboratories Ward Labs Resources Dr. Ray Ward [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us! We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/ Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
In this episode, we walk you through the steps on managing your fallow fields for turkey and deer. We cover the plants we're after and those we want to manage against, as well as herbicide preparation, broadcast application, timing of management, and more. Resources: iNaturalist Seek App We manage DEER food plots for TURKEYS (video) Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
Jacob and Eric sit down with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Research Division Chief, Cory Gray and Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Dr. Marcelo Jorge to discuss the results of their 5-year project evaluating the effects of CWD in Arkansas. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and select the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop-down menu. You will need to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
Amphibians such as frogs and salamanders are common critters often seen in the Midwest near ponds, creeks, and rivers. These animals are often indicators of water quality conditions. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss common amphibians of the Great Plains, why many of these populations are declining, and steps you can take to help ensure frogs are calling and salamanders are crawling in your aquatic ecosystems. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html Watch the podcast on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@KSREWildlife
Dr. Craig Harper returns to share insights on how sloped topography affects plant communities, wild turkey use, and management strategies for both turkey and deer. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Dr. Craig Harper (Website) We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
We're back with Part 2 of discussing cool-season food plots. Hosts Jacob and Eric catch up with MSU Deer Lab graduate student Luke Resop to talk about seed mixes and weed management. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and select the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop-down menu. You will need to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
A good trilogy establishes the characters and the main conflict in installment one, then installment two deepens the conflict, and finally installment three provides the climax and resolution for the entire saga. Way back in Episode 10, Wes interviewed the Bluegill Queen (Sarah Parvin) to discuss her 5-acre pond that had become notorious for producing the fattest bluegill you can imagine. We are talking fish that weighed twice what a healthy fish of the same length should weigh, with helmets and briskets protecting their disproportionately small heads! These two-handed bream graced the pages of many fishing media outlets, Texas Hunter feeder advertisements, and even had industry sponsorships. The Slab Lab, as the pond was affectionately named, became known far and wide and even has its own logo! Wes even had the opportunity to fish the bream himself! Unfortunately, the Slab Lab experiment had a major setback this past summer. In this episode (Installment two), Sarah walks us through what happened and why, and discusses what is next for the Slab Movement. Hopefully, this episode is not the final episode of the Slab Lab, and we will have Sarah back to complete the trilogy! Do you have questions or comments? Follow the Fish University Facebook community and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
In this episode, hosts Jacob and Eric discuss cool-season food plots with MSU Deer Lab graduate student Luke Resop. They cover key topics such as food plot placement, soil testing, and seed-bed preparation in part 1 of this 2-part series. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and select the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop-down menu. You will need to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
In this episode, we reveal results from our latest research analyzing the role of hen survival in turkey population dynamics. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Pre-Print: Lashley et al. (2025) Female Wild turkey survival meta-analysis Byrne, M. E., et al. (2015). Potential density dependence in wild turkey productivity in the southeastern United States. In Proceedings of the National Wild Turkey Symposium (Vol. 11, pp. 329-351). Johnson, V. M., et al. (2022). Nest site selection and survival of wild turkeys in Tennessee. Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 9, 134-143. Lehman, C. P., et al. (2022). Factors influencing rate of decline in a Merriam's wild turkey population. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 86(6), e22240. Londe, David W., et al. "Review of range‐wide vital rates quantifies eastern wild Turkey population trajectory." Ecology and Evolution 13.2 (2023): e9830. Speake, Daniel W. "Predation on wild turkeys in Alabama." 4th National Wild Turkey Symposium. Little Rock, Arkansas (USA). 2-5 Mar 1980.. 1980. Tyl, R. M., et al. (2023). Factors influencing survival of female eastern wild turkeys in northeastern South Dakota. Wildlif e Society Bulletin, 47(2), e1429. We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
In this episode, hosts Jacob and Eric dive into the challenges of the late summer stress period for deer. They explore key topics, including the declining nutritional quality of plants, the demands of antler growth, late gestation, and lactation. They also share insights on how strategic habitat management and food plots can help alleviate the summer stress period. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and select the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop-down menu. You will need to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
Food plots can be a beneficial tool for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, but do they serve the same purpose throughout the geographic range of white-tailed deer in the United States? Join Drew and Joe as they discuss the uses of food plots, tips on what to plant, and when they are most productive in the Great Plains. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
In this conversation, Will leads us through the available research on the effectiveness of predator bounty programs. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Ditchkoff, S. S., et al. (2017). Effectiveness of a bounty program for reducing wild pig densities. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 41(3), 548-555. Bartel, R. A., & Brunson, M. W. (2003). Effects of Utah's coyote bounty program on harvester behavior. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 736-743. Gosling, L. M., & Baker, S. J. (1989). The eradication of muskrats and coypus from Britain. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 38(1), 39-51. Lelli, B., et al. (2009). Seal bounties in Maine and Massachusetts, 1888 to 1962. Northeastern Naturalist, 16(2), 239-254. We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
This month we are joined by Dr. Jesse Bell, Claire M. Hubbard Professor of Water, Climate, and Health in the Department of Environmental, Agricultural, and Occupational Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the School of Natural Resources within the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He also serves as the director of the Water, Climate and Health Program at UNMC and the director of Water, Climate and Health at the University of Nebraska's Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute. Following our previous episodes on nitrate issues in drinking water, Andy and Nate chat with Dr. Bell about the specific health risks associated with nitrates in drinking water. They dive into what the science tells us about adverse health outcomes, who should be concerned, and things we can do to help mitigate against these risks. Resources: UNL Water – Nitrate Water, Climate and Health Program Reducing nitrate intake and health complications from drinking private well water Dr. Jesse Bell [website, academic profile] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us! We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/ Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
In this episode, the new co-directors of the MSU Deer Lab, Drs. Jacob Dykes and Eric Michel, share their plans for the deer lab and their vision for research and outreach. They discuss hosting in-person events and the construction of the new captive deer facility and outreach building at Mississippi State University. The discussion then shifts to a pressing issue that could affect deer: New World Screwworm. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and select the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop-down menu. You will need to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
Join as we explore and critique ChatGPT's answers to why wild turkeys are declining. Submit your prompt to wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Boone, W. W., et al. (2024). Frequent prescribed burns reduce mammalian species richness and occurrence in longleaf pine sandhills. Forest Ecology and Management, 553, 121596. Boone, W. W., et al. (2024). Robust assessment of associations between weather and eastern wild turkey nest success. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 88(2), e22524. Lehman, C. P., et al. (2022). Factors influencing rate of decline in a Merriam's wild turkey population. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 86(6), e22240. Quehl, J. O., et al. (2024). Assessing wild turkey productivity before and after a 14-day delay in the start date of the spring hunting season in Tennessee. Ecology and Evolution, 14, e11390. Gobbler survival across the south | Ep 67 Turkey disease ecology | Ep 70 We got bug problems | Ep 73 Fly, float, and mate | Ep 83 It's not just turkeys | Ep 135 We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
In this episode, Bronson and Steve introduce the new Co-Directors of the MSU Deer Lab. Dr. Eric Michel succeeds Steve and now serves as Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Taylor Chair in Applied Big Game Research and Instruction. Replacing Bronson is Dr. Jacob Dykes, the new Coordinator of the St. John Family Endowed Professorship of Wildlife Management and Extension Wildlife Specialist. We'll spend some time getting to know Eric and Jacob, discuss their backgrounds, and hear about their vision and future plans for the MSU Deer Lab. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and choose the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop down menu. You will have to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
Pond owners and managers often add aeration to their ponds to increase the ecological health of the pond, but do they actually work and should you add them to your pond? Join Joe and Drew as they discuss why aeration might be needed, benefits of pond aeration, and tips on how to properly manage pond aeration systems. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
In this episode, we discuss the overlaps and tradeoffs between managing your property for both deer and turkey. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Auburn TFT Habitat Management Day Turner, M. A., et al. (2024). Influence of mowing and herbicide application on white-tailed deer use of perennial forage plantings. Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 11, 76-82. We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
We've brought back our episode with Dudley Phelps, Mossy Oak Nativ Nurseries plant expert and co-host of the Gamekeeper Podcast, to learn about his go-to species and successful strategies for planting trees to attract turkeys. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Boggess, C. M., et al. (2021). Facultative seed predators drive community-level indirect effects of mast seeding. Forest Ecology and Management, 502, 119713. Harper, C. A., et al. (2021). Plant community response and implications for wildlife following control of a nonnative perennial grass. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 45(4), 618-629. Mossy Oak Nativ Nurseries We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
The Little Red River is a unique fishery hidden in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas that boasts a world class trout fishery and some unique angling opportunities. The Greers Ferry Dam releases deep, cold water that supports stocked and naturalized trout in the river below. About 30 miles from the cold-water release, the river begins to transition from cold to warm water, and a variety of unique fishing opportunities have developed. Wes asked Dr. Steve Lochmann to return to Fish University and provide an update on his ongoing research activities and to tell us about this stretch of water where you can catch trophy brown trout, smallmouth bass and walleye, and warm water species like blue catfish, crappie, and largemouth bass. Not to mention non-game species like darters, suckers, and invasive species including snakeheads and bigheaded carp! Do you have questions or comments? Follow the Fish University Facebook community and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
Voles are common herbivorous rodents that can become very abundant when their food and cover are plentiful. They typically go unnoticed , but sometimes cause damage to turf grass, plants in vegetable gardens and flower beds, as well as trees in orchards and grape vines. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss vole biology, natural history, the property damage that they sometimes cause, and control options for preventing or dealing with vole damage. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
Forester and wildlife biologist Jordan Nanney continues the conversation on hardwood timber sale evaluation. He breaks down the first steps landowners should take, common mistakes made, what to avoid, and ways landowners can protect themselves. Check out the first part of this conversation (here). Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: NRCS Programs & Initiatives Jordan Nanney Jordan.Nanney@CompassSouth.com Compass South Forestry https://compasssouthforestry.com/ We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
We are joined by forester and wildlife biologist Jordan Nanney for an overview of hardwood timber markets and a breakdown of how landowners can sell their timber under various product classes. WATCH this episode (here)! Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab Resources: Brooke, J. M., et al. (2019). Effects of fertilization and crown release on white oak (Quercus alba) masting and acorn quality. Forest Ecology and Management, 433, 305-312. Lashley, M. A., et al. (2017). Regenerating White Pine (Pinus strobus) in the South: Seedling Position is More Important than Herbivory Protection. Castanea, 82(2), 156-162. Nanney, J. S., et al. (2018). Nutritional carrying capacity for cervids following disturbance in hardwood forests. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 82(6), 1219-1228. NRCS Programs & Initiatives Jordan Nanney Jordan.Nanney@CompassSouth.com Compass South Forestry https://compasssouthforestry.com/ We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (quick) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
This month we are joined by Jackson Stansell, Founder and CEO of Sentinel Ag. Following our previous episode on nitrate issues in drinking water with Crystal Powers, Andy and Nate chat with Jackson about how his team at Sentinel is tackling the nitrate issue head on – while also helping farmers be more profitable and efficient. From being good stewards of our land and natural resources to the importance of rural prosperity for the benefit of all, we cover the ins and outs of nitrogen in farming and how new innovations are helping to build a healthier future for people, wildlife, and the land. Resources: Sentinel Ag UNL Water – Nitrate Jackson Stansell [website, X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us! We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/ Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
Aquatic plants play a vital role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems but they can also cause problems when they become overabundant. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss common aquatic plant species, share tips on identifying plants in your pond or waterbody, and discuss the most effective techniques for managing and controlling aquatic vegetation. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
We're bringing back a popular episode where we boiled down the key areas of focus for improving turkey habitat and connectivity on your property. Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab WATCH this episode (here) Resources: Conventional vs. Regenerative Ag #79 Food plotting in nature's image #84 I lease land…what about me? #12 Which plants for brooding cover? #141 We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
In this episode, our hosts sit down with Dr. Jonathan Cammack, Extension Livestock Entomologist at Oklahoma State University, to discuss the troubling northward advance of the New World Screwworm. Once eradicated from the U.S. in the late 20th century, this destructive pest is again making headlines as it moves from Central America into Mexico—now only about 300 miles from the U.S. border. Dr. Cammack explains the history of eradication efforts, including the groundbreaking sterile fly release program, and details why current prevention depends on vigilant monitoring, quick wound treatment, and international cooperation. The discussion also covers the severe impact screwworm infestations have on both livestock and wildlife, drawing parallels to the devastating losses seen in Florida's endangered key deer population. From treatment options and insecticide limitations to the importance of adjusting calving seasons, this episode offers a deep dive into strategies producers and wildlife managers can take to stay ahead of the threat. Plus, listeners get an update on another invasive pest: the recently detected Asian Longhorned Tick in northeast Oklahoma. Resources - OkState Livestock Entomology - OkState New World Screwworm Information - Jonathan Cammack, Ph.D.
In this episode, we are joined by forest manager Michael Heatherly who walks us through the steps landowners should take when managing pine timber on their properties. Michael Heatherly mheatherly@sizemore1949.com Sizemore & Sizemore https://sizemoretimber.com/ Resources: Association of Consulting Foresters Society of American Foresters 00:00 Introduction to Forest Management and Wildlife Objectives 03:12 Understanding Landowner Objectives and Initial Steps 05:59 The Role of Thinning and Clear Cutting in Habitat Management 09:03 Timber Harvesting: Economic Considerations and Market Dynamics 11:45 Long-Term Management Strategies for Landowners 14:59 Navigating Timber Sales and Contracts 17:45 Ensuring Compliance and Quality During Harvesting 20:41 The Importance of Consulting Foresters 23:33 Building Long-Term Relationships with Landowners 36:43 Maximizing Timber Revenue 39:30 Landowner-Forester Collaboration 44:30 Navigating Market Challenges 50:26 Best Practices for Thinning 54:24 The Importance of Professional Guidance 59:22 Finding the Right Forester Fundraising Banquet (To enter the online raffles, click on ‘Get Tickets' and then scroll down to the ‘Add-ons') We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to our wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
In this episode, John Weir, Dr. Laura Goodman, and Dr. Mark Turner sit down for a laid-back, boots-on-the-ground talk about Forest Stand Improvement (FSI) and how it plays a big role in shaping better wildlife habitats for deer, turkey, and quail—especially right here in Oklahoma. They swap stories and share how FSI differs from Timber Stand Improvement (TSI), and why even folks without marketable timber can still benefit from these management techniques. You'll hear plenty of real-world advice—how to get more sunlight to the forest floor, which trees to keep or cut, and what tools make the job easier (spoiler: PlantNet and iNaturalist apps get some love). They also dig into strategies like girdling, hinge cutting, and selective herbicide use. And of course, no land management talk would be complete without prescribed fire. It's not just about burning—it's about building a better future for your land. Resources - OkState Range & Pasture Plant ID - PlantNet - iNaturalist
Forests and woodlands are terms commonly used interchangeably, but did you know they are different ecosystems? Join Joe and Drew as they discuss the differences in wooded areas and how to best manage them for native wildlife. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
In this episode, we discuss what you should be thinking about and implementing on your property for turkeys right now. Resources: Guide to Wildlife Food Plots and Early Successional Plants, Dr. Craig Harper 00:00 Introduction and Banter 02:55 Habitat-Centric Discussions 05:55 Fishing Adventures and Insights 08:48 Turkey Management Strategies 11:45 Field Management for Turkeys 14:48 Importance of Early Successional Cover 17:36 Burning and Timber Harvest Planning 28:53 Expanding the Burn Window 30:15 Increasing Sunlight for Turkey Abundance 31:44 Optimizing Poults Habitat 34:01 Managing Old Fields for Turkeys 35:55 Evaluating Agronomic Crops for Wildlife 37:46 The Role of Joint Vetch in Habitat Management 39:59 Balancing Ideal vs. Optimal Management 42:23 Practical Approaches to Habitat Management 43:48 Mast Management and Acorn Production 44:50 Identifying and Managing Problematic Trees 46:45 Combatting Ryegrass in Food Plots 50:15 Evaluating Management Practices Fundraising Banquet (To enter the online raffles, click on ‘Get Tickets' and then scroll down to the ‘Add-ons') We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Watch these podcasts on YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
This month we are joined by Dr. Larkin Powell, Director of the School of Natural Resources at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. With years of research experience in the Great Plains and beyond, Dr. Powell narrates the story of how our agricultural landscapes have changed over time and the opportunities and challenges that come along with these changes. We also discuss Dr. Powell's upcoming book, "The Best of Intentions: A story of landscape change in the Great Plains." Resources: The Best of Intentions: a history of landscape change in the heart of the Great Plains by Dr. Larkin Powell USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service Dr. Larkin Powell [website, academic profile, LinkedIn, @larkinpowell] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us! We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/ Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
How do fish colonize newly formed island streams? How do fish get above a 200-foot waterfall? Answers to these questions and more on this episode of Fish University. Wes sits down for a conversation with Dr. Gus Engman from the University of Tennessee about island fish and the threats that they face. They also talk about their new book and how you can get a digital copy absolutely free! So, join us, won't you? Do you have questions or comments? Follow the Fish University Facebook community and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
We discuss the importance of firebreaks for turkey hunting and habitat management, exploring the various types of firebreaks, their strategic uses, and practical tips for effective management. Fundraising Banquet (to enter into the online raffles, click on ‘Get Tickets' and then scroll down to the ‘Add-ons') We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience' at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
The word “jellyfish” may bring up a memory of an unpleasant beach experience, or of nostalgic childhood days watching Spongebob Squarepants. Often jellyfish don't get the love that many other marine critters enjoy, but Spongebob certainly loved them, as fishing for jellyfish was his favorite pastime. Although jellyfish can be a nuisance and a hazard, they are an important component of marine ecosystems. Their lifecycle is fascinating, and their survival instinct is impressive. On this episode of Fish University, we'll dive deep into the world of cnidarians with someone almost as passionate as Spongebob about these brainless, boneless creatures. Ms. Diana Philips joins us from Reef Environmental Education Foundation to share with us her knowledge, passion, and a little humor about these misunderstood denizens of the deep. Do you have questions or comments? Follow the Fish University Facebook community and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
Flooding is often associated with negative consequences for humans, but did you know that floods can provide many benefits for wildlife? Join Joe and Drew as they discuss what a flood is, some reasons why flooding occurs, and give insight on how animals respond to flooding. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
In this episode, we discuss progress that we're seeing on private lands management. Resources: Fundraising Banquet (to enter into the online raffles, click on ‘Get Tickets' and then scroll down to the ‘Add-ons') Has turkey habitat changed? | #21 Turner, M. A., et al. (2021). Mixture of triclopyr and imazapyr more effective than triclopyr alone for hardwood forest stand improvement. Forest Science, 67(1), 43-48. Which plants for brooding cover? | #142 We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience' at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
We're bringing back our episode on indicator plants for evaluating successful brood field management. Resources: iNaturalist Seek Forest Plants of the Southeast and Their Wildlife Uses Wildlife Food Plots and Early Successional Plants GeFellers, James Wade, et al. "Seeding is not always necessary to restore native early successional plant communities." Restoration Ecology 28.6 (2020): 1485-1494. We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience' at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
Snakes are a group of species that many people dislike or have a strong fear of. Join Drew and Joe in this episode as they discuss snake natural history, management, and how to stay safe around snakes - including venomous species. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html
Dr. Zach Steele and Dorothy Dick, key creators for our online wild turkey training, join us to discuss the production of the course. Join as they share insights into the research and development, the expert contributors that shaped the course content, feedback received from constituents, challenges faced during filming, and the memorable moments that made the project enjoyable. Dr. Zachary Steele Publications Dorothy Dick @peep_the_poult We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience' at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
Wild Turkey Manager: Advanced Habitat features experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. This course is intended to be comprehensive, leading you through advanced concepts in habitat management, predator management, disease, and population management. The course offers continuing education credits (CEUs) available through The Wildlife Society and the Society of American Foresters. We made the course online so you can take it on your own time, at your own pace, wherever you are! Enroll now: https://tinyurl.com/WildTurkeyManager
In this bittersweet episode Bronson visits with Steve as he reflects on his retirement from the MSU Deer Lab after a long and impactful career in wildlife management. Steve discusses some of the research that he considered very important in his career that impacted resource management. He reviews his research on forest management, prescribed fire, DMAP data, environment vs genetics, females choose antlers, antler restrictions, selective harvest, and CWD sampling. We hope you enjoy Steve's stroll down memory lane. Check out the MSU Deer Lab's online seminar series (here) and choose the Natural Resources option from the Categories drop down menu. You will have to create an account to view the seminars. The seminars are free unless you are seeking professional educational credits. Also, be sure to visit our YouTube channel (here)
We're bringing back our episode discussing the multifaceted effects of fire on wild turkey survival and how a new approach could knock off two objectives with one flame. Resources: Boone, W. W., et al. (2024). Frequent prescribed burns reduce mammalian species richness and occurrence in longleaf pine sandhills. Forest Ecology and Management, 553, 121596. Fire University #13 - How fire affects predators, ft. Dr. Michael Cherry Jones, D. D., et al. (2004). Prescribed fire and raccoon use of longleaf pine forests: implications for managing nest predation?. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 32(4), 1255-1259. Jorge, M. H., et al. (2020). Fire and land cover drive predator abundances in a pyric landscape. Forest Ecology and Management, 461, 117939. Kilburg, E. L., et al. (2014). Wild turkey nest survival and nest‐site selection in the presence of growing‐season prescribed fire. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 78(6), 1033-1039. Lohr, A. K., et al. (2019). Effects of individual recess behaviors on nest and female survival of Eastern wild turkeys (Doctoral dissertation, University of Georgia). Wann, G. T., et al. (2020). The influence of prescribed fire on wild turkeys in the Southeastern United States: A review and synthesis. Forest Ecology and Management, 455, 117661. Wild Turkey Science #19 - Burning during nesting What does wild turkey nesting cover look like? (Craig Harper Video) Yeldell, N. A., et al. (2017). Nest site selection and nest survival of eastern wild turkeys in a pyric landscape. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 81(6), 1073-1083. Yeldell, N. A., et al. (2017). Prescribed fire influences habitat selection of female eastern wild turkeys. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 81(7), 1287-1297. We've launched a comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Enroll Now! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Want to help wild turkey conservation? Please take our quick survey to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at Grounded Brand have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience' at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org. Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
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