Your Place On The River - Chattahoochee Nature Center

Melissa Carter speaks with Claire Mills, a wildlife technician at Chattahoochee Nature Center. They discuss the importance of connecting with nature, the fascinating behaviors of vultures, the cycle of bird reproduction, and the role of birds in inspiring children. Claire shares her journey from a law career to working with wildlife, emphasizing the healing power of nature and the importance of community involvement. The conversation highlights the need for awareness of human impact on wildlife and encourages listeners to observe and appreciate the natural world around them. www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 Connecting with Nature: The Mission of CNC03:02 Understanding Vultures: Nature's Clean-Up Crew06:12 The Role of Birds in Nature: Observations and Insights08:52 The Cycle of Bird Reproduction: Nature's Timing12:00 Inspiring the Next Generation: Kids and Nature14:45 From Law to Nature: Claire's Journey to CNC18:02 Finding Purpose: The Importance of Community and Learning21:07 Birds as a Source of Comfort: Nature's Healing Power23:51 Advice for Aspiring Birders: Starting Your Journey27:01 Human Impact on Nature: A Call for AwarenessSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meryl Rivett shares her journey as a volunteer at Chattahoochee Nature Center, discussing her lifelong love for animals and the importance of education in wildlife conservation. She explains the role of a docent, describes her daily activities at the wildlife clinic, and emphasizes the significance of observing nature. Meryl also highlights the impact of human actions on wildlife and the importance of native species, while sharing personal stories about her pets and encouraging others to connect with nature. Chapters 00:00 Meryl's Journey to Volunteering at the Nature Center02:52 Understanding the Role of a Docent06:06 A Day in the Life at the Wildlife Clinic08:55 Observing Nature and Its Lessons12:00 The Importance of Native Species15:14 The Impact of Human Actions on Wildlife18:04 Cherished Pets and Their Influence20:48 Encouraging Connection with Nature24:05 The Value of Education in Nature26:57 Final Thoughts on Volunteering and NatureSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melissa Carter and Kathryn Fidati discuss the profound impact of isolation on mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and introduces the concept of forest bathing as a therapeutic practice to reconnect with nature. She shares her personal experiences and insights on how nature can alleviate stress, anxiety, and chronic illness, emphasizing the importance of community and shared experiences in the healing process. The discussion highlights the physiological and psychological benefits of spending time in nature and encourages listeners to embrace mindfulness and presence in their daily lives. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Isolation on Mental Health07:56 Reconnecting with Nature: The Concept of Forest Bathing16:03 Forest Bathing and Chronic Illness: A Personal Journey23:58 Community and Nature: Healing TogetherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'Your Place on the River,' host Melissa Carter speaks with Catherine Dudek, the wildlife director at Chattahoochee Nature Center, about the importance of understanding wildlife behavior and the common misconceptions people have when trying to help animals in need. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on wildlife awareness, the role of wildlife rehabilitation, and provide practical advice for safely assisting wildlife. The conversation emphasizes the need for education and professional care in wildlife interactions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wildlife Care and Education02:52 Understanding Wildlife Behavior and Human Interaction06:08 Common Misconceptions About Baby Animals09:00 The Impact of COVID-19 on Wildlife Awareness12:04 Turtle Behavior and Human Intervention14:56 Advice for Helping Wildlife Safely17:46 The Role of Wildlife Rehabilitation21:01 Common Wildlife Calls and Seasonal Trends23:54 Changes in Public Attitudes Towards Wildlife27:11 The Importance of Professional Wildlife Care30:02 Personal Stories and Lessons Learned in Wildlife Care32:50 Conclusion and Resources for Wildlife AssistanceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'Your Place on the River,' host Melissa Carter discusses the intrinsic connection between children and nature with Sam Leaf, the Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. They explore the importance of unstructured play in nature, the natural curiosity of children, and how to overcome fears associated with outdoor experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for mindfulness and presence in nature, as well as the role of parents in fostering a lifelong love for the outdoors in their children. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nature and Childhood Memories05:18 The Importance of Unstructured Play in Nature10:11 Overcoming Fear of Nature15:27 Mindfulness and Connection to Nature16:45 Encouraging Lifelong Curiosity and LearningSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join host Melissa Carter on this episode of Your Place on the River as she chats with CNC Naturalists Alina Ruiz and Bea Hatcher, a Certified Interpretive Guide. Together, they explore how connecting children with nature can spark curiosity, build resilience, and transform lives. Discover the unique role naturalists play in fostering a deeper bond with the outdoors and how outdoor exploration programs help break down barriers to nature access. This thoughtful discussion dives into the healing power of nature and why encouraging curiosity and connection with the natural world is vital for future generations. Whether you're passionate about education, environmental stewardship, or simply love the outdoors, this episode is rich with insights and inspiration to nurture a better, greener world. Chapters 00:00 Connecting People with Nature01:00 The Role of a Naturalist05:14 Journey to Becoming a Naturalist10:13 The Impact of Nature on Children16:49 Experiencing Nature with Kids20:28 Bringing Kids to the Nature Center25:11 Understanding Our Connection to Nature30:36 Overcoming Fears of Nature35:16 Nature for All AgesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of 'Your Place on the River,' Larry and Scott chat with Helen Tapp and Rick Hirsekorn from Chattahoochee Nature Center. They discuss the importance of environmental mediation, community engagement, and the growth of the Nature Center. The conversation highlights personal journeys, the significance of listening to diverse stakeholders, and the center's commitment to sustainability and inclusion. They also explore future aspirations for the center, emphasizing the need for improved visibility and financial stability post-COVID. www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Chattahoochee Nature Center01:00 The Role of Environmental Mediation05:48 Personal Journeys and Professional Backgrounds12:00 Growth and Development of the Nature Center18:10 Future Aspirations and Community Engagement23:52 Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and InclusionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melissa and Meg Krueger explore the impact of the Paralympics on disability awareness and the importance of adaptive equipment and mindset in outdoor activities. They highlight how community efforts can create inclusive outdoor experiences and emphasize the significance of representation in these activities. The conversation also touches on the pyramid of outdoor engagement and the healing power of nature. Wilderness Inquiry has been a key partner in promoting accessibility. For over five years, they have collaborated with CNC to bring canoes to our grounds and guide visitors on river outings. These 10-day fall stretches have allowed hundreds to thousands of people to experience the river, furthering our mission to make nature accessible to everyone. www.wildernessinquiry.org www.chattnaturecenter.org Chapters 00:00 The Impact of the Paralympics on Disability Awareness02:59 Adaptive Equipment and Mindset in Outdoor Activities05:47 Creating Community Through Outdoor Engagement09:13 The Importance of Representation in Outdoor Activities11:56 The Pyramid of Outdoor Engagement14:59 The Healing Power of Nature18:00 Inspiration from Diverse Outdoor ExperiencesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of "Your Place On The River," you'll find out about the popular Butterfly Encounter with Members and Visitors Engagement Director Farah McEntyre, what the Nature Exchange is from Lori Watterson who is the Nature Exchange Naturalist and get a tutorial about snakes from Wildlife Technician Jeremy Maneyapanda.  Plus much more. www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Your Place on the River, we get to know about how the Native Americans thrived on the Chattahoochee River and learn the history of their relationship with the plants found on the river.   www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of "Your Place On The River,"  we get to know Conservation Horticulturist, Henning von Schmeling and how he contributes to the Chattahoochee Nature Center and his vast knowledge of the wonderful plants and foliage around campus.  And we get to hear about how a Barred Owl was rehabbed and the story behind it.   www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Your Place On The River, the team sits down to chat with Special Events Coordinator, Fabie Clermont on her exciting journey from Haiti to the Chattahoochee Nature Center.  Also, Education Programs Supervisor, Mark Gialanella talks about birthday parties, Scouts programs, Owl Prowls and a heartwarming story about refugees who hosted a party at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of "Your Place On The River,: we'll meet Volunteer Specialist Patricia Fulton about the importance of the volunteers for the Chattahoochee Nature Center.  Also, a history lesson about the Chattahoochee River, wildlife care and we'll take a visit to the Unity Garden to talk with some of the volunteers.   www.aahnow.org www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Place on the River: Discover and learn more than you ever would have known from the passionate employees and volunteers of the Chattahoochee Nature Center right here.  Learn how native plants benefit the Chattahoochee River Watershed with Horticulture Manager Jacqueline McRae, the impact of pollution on the river, the importance of Gopher Tortoises as a keystone species, and take a walk in the woods to discover the joys of forest bathing. www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Place On The River: Discover the magic behind Camp Kingfisher with CNC's most energetic staff: Camp Co-Directors Debby Head and Laura Viator. Hear real stories from campers and parents and discover the awesome world of camp firsthand. www.chattnaturecenter.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Place On The River: Answer the call of the wild and delve behind the scenes of CNC's Wildlife Department with Wildlife Director Kathryn Dudeck. Then, get to know Celia Steigerwald: volunteer and part-time events staff, full-time MVP.  This is "Your Place On The River." www.chattnaturecenter.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Place On The River: Join CNC in this new journey as we delve into the unique programs and opportunities provided by the Education Department with Senior Director of Learning and Engagement, Alicia Thompson. Afterward, get a peek at what makes CNC so special to one of our superstar volunteers, Dan Prucha.  This is "Your Place On The River." www.chattnaturecenter.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.