Nature Boost

How does caring for wildlife and wild places help us care for ourselves? Join MDC’s Lorisa Smith and Dr. Sherri Russell as they discuss how the One Health framework connects the well-being of people, animals, and the environment. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just in time for spooky season, Nature Boost is shining a light on one of Missouri’s most misunderstood residents … the tarantula! In this mini episode, hear from experts with the University of Missouri–St. Louis and the Missouri Department of Conservation about their research on Missouri’s native tarantula population. Discover where these “creepy crawlers” call home, what makes them unique, and why they deserve a little love and appreciation, not screams, this Halloween. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Autumn in Missouri offers more than colorful leaves … it’s a season full of wild flavors, too! In October’s episode, MDC’s Ginger Miller and Pat Whalen join us to guide us through the basics of foraging. Get tips on identifying wild edibles, fun ways to transform them in the kitchen, and how you can harvest food throughout the year! Whether you’re gathering ingredients for a wild treat or looking to learn more about the outdoors, this episode is sure to inspire you to slow down and appreciate Missouri’s natural abundance. Helpful links discussed in this episode include: Wild Edibles | Missouri Department of Conservation Wild Edibles of Missouri Game Recipes | Missouri Department of Conservation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Birding is blowing up on TikTok and Instagram lately – especially with younger generations! People from all backgrounds are discovering the joy of this accessible outdoor hobby. But while birding is trending, birds themselves are in trouble. Since 1970, North America has lost nearly 3 billion birds. We hear from Kaylee Woelfel from the Missouri River Bird Observatory on why these declines are happening, and easy steps we all can take to save our birds. And yes, birding is one of them! Helpful links discussed in this episode include: https://www.3billionbirds.org/ https://mrbo.org/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trees are more than just scenery – they’re living investments that provide shade, beauty, wildlife habitat, and a myriad of health benefits. MDC’s Forest Entomologist Robbie Doerhoff is back to tell us how tree health is connected to human health, and how to keep our trees healthy for generations to come. Get practical tips on watering, mulching, and spotting signs of stress and disease. Whether you have a single backyard oak tree or a grove of maples, learn how small steps today can help your trees thrive for years to come. Helpful resources discussed in this episode: MDC Tree Planting Guides -- Planting Trees | Missouri Department of Conservation Find a certified arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture at TreesAreGood.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.