In today's episode, we go back to basics and map out for listeners the biological, operational, and economic considerations of thinning pine stands. For most in the southeast, markets are tough for pine thinning material, but we explore why it's so important to thin nonetheless. Remember if you don't thin your forest, mother nature will. Next episo…

John Gruchy re-joins the podcast to break down the steps and requirements you need to get fire on your property. We discuss the essential equipment needed, legal liability considerations, resources and financial support available, tips for success, and why burning is imperative for the wild turkey. Resources: Martin, J. A., et al. (2012). Wild turk…

Wild animals have a variety of life history strategies to adapt and thrive in colder weather. However, the arrival of colder winter temperatures and snowy conditions can affect fish and wildlife in many ways. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss the effects of snow on aquatic ecosystems, the detriments and benefits of winter fish kills, and the import…

Wild pigs. Feral swine. Wild hogs. Whatever you call them, invasive wild pigs are rapidly spreading across the US and Canada – destroying crops and spreading disease along the way.  Experts are calling them one of the greatest threats to biodiversity in the country. What can we do about it? To find out, we’re talking with the show’s own Dr. Jared B…

In this episode, we answer your questions. Join as we discuss the ecological impacts of hurricanes on turkeys survival rates and nesting success, ideal fire return intervals for nesting cover, the impacts of deer on vegetation and how this affects turkey populations, the importance of fire timing in habitat dynamics, and the challenges of recruitin…

In this episode, Dr. Heath Hagy rejoins James and Brian for an insightful discussion on the complexities of managing duck habitat, with a particular focus on the role of sanctuaries. Together, they delve into what defines a sanctuary, its historical development, and the challenges of measuring its effectiveness. The conversation explores the critic…

In this episode, we reflect upon our experiences and insights from 2024. We share our top episodes, theme highlights, the emergence of new research in turkey science, and our ambitious wild turkey goals for 2025. We’re calling on audience engagement to help shape future content! Let us know what you want to hear and how you want to engage with us b…

This month we are joined by Luke Meduna, Big Game Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to talk about all things deer-related, from hunting and disease to the inside scoop on management. Resources: Big Game Guide 2024 Big Game Recommendations River Anterless Nebraska Unit Map Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Luke Meduna [websi…

Beavers are a fascinating species that can transform forests and prairies into wetland ecosystems, but their ingenuity is not always welcome and can lead to devastating property damage in some situations. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss beaver biology and management of this fascinating species in the Great Plains. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Rick…

We continue the gobbling activity conversation as Will walks us through the available research on the complex dynamics between habitat management, gobbling activity, and the overall health of turkey populations. We explore the significance of early successional cover, the impact of vegetation composition on gobbling rates, the challenges of researc…

Grab a notepad and pen, because today we’re diving into the complex factors influencing gobbling activity. In this Part 1 segment, Will walks us through the available literature on the seasonal patterns of gobbling, the relationship between gobbling activity and reproduction, the influence of weather and environmental conditions, the impact of hunt…

Fisheries managers have a wealth of information available on how to manage small ponds, and there has been substantial research directed at managing large reservoirs that impound substantial rivers. However, there is a scarcity of information on reservoirs that are too big to be ponds and too small to be major reservoirs. These mid-size systems app…

Trout provide unique fishing experiences and are stocked in many states to provide fun fishing opportunities in cooler months. In this episode, Joe and Drew dive into the fascinating world of trout biology, the importance of the ocean in their life history, and how the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks provides trout fishing opportunities in …

Dr. Colter Chitwood is back on to break down the unique population dynamics of the wild turkey. Join as we explore which vital rates are significant to turkey population trajectories, impacts of boom bust cycles on reproductive success, the interplay between reproductive parameters and hen survival, why high reproduction rates may not compensate fo…

In this episode, we take a shot at listener questions ranging from controlling tree of heaven to addressing the pros and cons of managing for longleaf as compared to loblolly pine. We also address on-site and off-site characteristics to keep in mind when buying timber property. For questions or comments, email us at timberuniversity@gmail.com.…

In this episode, James and Mark are joined by Houston Havens, Waterfowl Program Coordinator with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and B.C. Rogers, III, a passionate conservationist, avid waterfowl hunter, and owner of Wren & Ivy Sporting and Travel Gear. Together, they tackle the question, “What makes for a good duck se…

By popular demand, we sit down to explore the significance and functional role of the passenger pigeon. Join as we dive into the available literature on the history and ecological importance of passenger pigeons, learning how they shaped ecosystems and oak forest dynamics, how these historical disturbances can give insight into our management pract…

James and Mark are joined by Rick Hamrick, state quail biologist with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, to dive into a trending topic among bobwhite quail enthusiasts: parasites, specifically eye worms. The conversation underscores the importance of habitat as the most critical factor influencing quail populations. They …

Acorns are a valuable food resource for deer and other wildlife when and where they are available. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss the nutritional content of acorns, variability in acorn production among years and trees, and how to promote acorn production in oak woodlands. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and facult…

We are joined by Zak Danks, Wild Turkey & Ruffed Grouse Program Coordinator for the state of Kentucky, to discuss the state’s wild turkey status. Join as he walks us through restoration effort history, harvest rate trends, ongoing research (including unpublished poult-per -hen data), impacts of cicada hatches, habitat challenges, season structures,…

This month we are joined by Dr. Mitch Stephenson, Range Management Specialist at University of Nebraska, and Kaitlyn Dozler, Virtual Fence Program Manager at University of Missouri, to talk about Kaitlyn’s research with virtual fencing and how it can be safely used for conservation on ranchlands. Resources: Influence of virtual fence on heart rate …

We have scientifically proven approaches to lake and pond management, but there is always an element of art involved. Every lake is different. There is always something just a little odd that needs to be considered or a unique issue that must be addressed, and some lakes are just simply “problem lakes”. In this episode, we take an in-depth look at …

Today we are joined by Nick Thomas and Weston Thompson from Steward Link, a consultation company focused on helping landowners gain access to USDA conservation programs. Join as they breakdown the application process, eligibility requirements, available financial assistance, regional differences, common barriers to entry, complexities of government…

Ducks and geese are fun to watch and provide exciting hunting opportunities at your pond or stream - but are they okay for your water quality? Join Drew and Joe as they discuss waterfowl ecology, life history patterns, and what to do if you have too many geese waddling around your property. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension special…

In this episode, we delve into the ecological significance of the American chestnut tree with Sara Fitzsimmons, Chief Conservation Officer for The American Chestnut Foundation. Join as we explore its history, ecological importance, challenges faced due to habitat change and disease, on-going conservation efforts, and how you can get involved in its…