Natural Resources University
Natural Resources University is a podcast network focused on delivering science-based natural resource management. The series housed within this network aim to deliver expert-based knowledge for their corresponding genre of natural resource management.
info_outline
Aquatic Vegetation Management | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #465
08/26/2025
Aquatic Vegetation Management | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #465
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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37968365
info_outline
Designing your turkey property | Wild Turkey Science #464
08/25/2025
Designing your turkey property | Wild Turkey Science #464
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: WATCH this episode () Resources: 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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to our wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37882280
info_outline
From Panama To The Plains: Screwworm Is On The Move | BGWT #463
08/20/2025
From Panama To The Plains: Screwworm Is On The Move | BGWT #463
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 - - -
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37804680
info_outline
How to start: Step by step to managing pine timber | Wild Turkey Science #462
08/18/2025
How to start: Step by step to managing pine timber | Wild Turkey Science #462
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 Sizemore & Sizemore Resources: 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 (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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to our wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37842815
info_outline
Hack, Spray, & Blaze: Enhancing Oklahoma’s Wildlife Habitats | BGWT #461
08/13/2025
Hack, Spray, & Blaze: Enhancing Oklahoma’s Wildlife Habitats | BGWT #461
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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37804545
info_outline
Managing Woodlands for Wildlife | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #460
08/12/2025
Managing Woodlands for Wildlife | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #460
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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37767710
info_outline
You should be doing this for turkeys | Wild Turkey Science #459
08/11/2025
You should be doing this for turkeys | Wild Turkey Science #459
In this episode, we discuss what you should be thinking about and implementing on your property for turkeys right now. WATCH this episode ! Resources: , 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 (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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37752185
info_outline
Shaping the Heartland - The Evolution of Working Landscapes | WildAg #458
08/06/2025
Shaping the Heartland - The Evolution of Working Landscapes | WildAg #458
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: Dr. Larkin Powell [, , , ] Dr. Andrew Little [, Nathan Pflueger [] AWESM Lab [, ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [, ] Watch these podcasts on 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: Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37679910
info_outline
Island Fish | Fish University #457
08/05/2025
Island Fish | Fish University #457
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 and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37621305
info_outline
All about firebreaks | Wild Turkey Science #456
08/04/2025
All about firebreaks | Wild Turkey Science #456
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. WATCH this episode ! Resources: 00:00 – Intro 01:18 – Chitter chatter 02:00 – Choosing Firebreaks 04:00 – Wildlife Value of Planted Firebreaks 06:00 – Designing Firebreaks for Habitat & Access 08:00 – Common Misconceptions about Firebreaks 12:00 – Real-world Examples from the Field 20:00 – Regional Variation & Turkey Use 26:00 – Seasonal Management & Prescribed Fire 34:00 – Integrating Firebreaks into Larger Management Goals (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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37655790
info_outline
Slippery Slope to Slime | Fish University #455
07/31/2025
Slippery Slope to Slime | Fish University #455
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 and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37621240
info_outline
Benefits of Flooding for Wildlife | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #454
07/29/2025
Benefits of Flooding for Wildlife | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #454
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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37593710
info_outline
Progress on property management | Wild Turkey Science #453
07/28/2025
Progress on property management | Wild Turkey Science #453
In this episode, we discuss progress that we’re seeing on private lands management. Watch this episode ! Resources: (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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37572735
info_outline
Which plants for brooding cover? | Wild Turkey Science #452
07/21/2025
Which plants for brooding cover? | Wild Turkey Science #452
We’re bringing back our episode on indicator plants for evaluating successful brood field management. Watch this episode ! Resources: 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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37467790
info_outline
Snakes | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #451
07/15/2025
Snakes | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #451
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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37403250
info_outline
Creating Wild Turkey Manager: Advanced Habitat | Wild Turkey Science #451
07/14/2025
Creating Wild Turkey Manager: Advanced Habitat | Wild Turkey Science #451
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. Watch this episode ! Dr. Zachary Steele Dorothy Dick 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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37394530
info_outline
Wild Turkey Manager (Online Course)
07/09/2025
Wild Turkey Manager (Online Course)
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:
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37325375
info_outline
Steve's Dispersal Event | Deer University #450
07/08/2025
Steve's Dispersal Event | Deer University #450
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 () 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 ()
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37324270
info_outline
Habitat management IS predator management | Wild Turkey Science #449
07/07/2025
Habitat management IS predator management | Wild Turkey Science #449
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. Watch this episode ! Resources: 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. Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Donate to wild turkey research: , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37290430
info_outline
The Carbon Market: What Farmers Should Know | Wild Ag #448
07/07/2025
The Carbon Market: What Farmers Should Know | Wild Ag #448
In this episode, Gabriella Scolio and Jacob Penner from The Nature Conservancy join us to talk about carbon markets and what it means for farmers in the Midwest. We learn about what a carbon credit is, why companies are interested in carbon credits and how they are measuring their emissions, and how and why farmers might want to get involved. Resources: The Nature Conservancy [, ] Dr. Andrew Little [, Nathan Pflueger [] AWESM Lab [, ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [, ] Watch these podcasts on 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: Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37290325
info_outline
Green Up & Burn Down: Growing Season Prescribed Burns | BGWT #447
07/06/2025
Green Up & Burn Down: Growing Season Prescribed Burns | BGWT #447
In this episode of Blazin' Grazin' and Other Wild Things, hosts John Weir, Dr. Laura Goodman, and Dr. Mark Turner dig deep into the value of growing season burns. They discuss how summer fires, often underused due to misconceptions about safety, can be the most effective tool for land managers dealing with eastern redcedar, poor forage quality, and wildlife habitat degradation. Drawing on years of OSU Extension research and firsthand experience, they reveal how fire during the warmer months can be slower-moving and safer than many think. You will learn how these burns enhance plant nutrition for both cattle and wildlife, why concerns about risk and liability are overblown, and how to plan burns that align with weather and vegetation goals. From practical strategies like creating wide firebreaks and managing brush piles to the science behind fire behavior and plant responses, this episode delivers insights that could reshape your approach to land stewardship. Resources -
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37290230
info_outline
Aquatic Parasites | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #446
07/01/2025
Aquatic Parasites | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #446
Parasites are commonly found in aquatic environments. Join Joe and Drew in this episode as they discuss common parasites found in fish and aquatic wildlife, some factors that influence parasite rates, and what you can do to reduce parasite loadings in your ponds or streams. 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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37209385
info_outline
The dominant poult | Wild Turkey Science #445
06/30/2025
The dominant poult | Wild Turkey Science #445
Today’s conversation offers a unique window into the intricate world of poults. We are joined by Eva Noroski, Field Coordinator for the UF Game Lab, as she shares insights into poult development, growth rates, behavior, vocalization, social dynamics, social bonding, and more. WATCH this episode ! 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. Eva Noroski , Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Want to help wild turkey conservation? to take part in our research! Donate to wild turkey research: , Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37209280
info_outline
When You Can’t Hunt: Fertility Control as a Deer Management Tool | Deer University #444
06/29/2025
When You Can’t Hunt: Fertility Control as a Deer Management Tool | Deer University #444
In this episode, Stephanie Boyles-Griffin, Jessica Tegt, Steve Demarais, and Bronson Strickland discuss the complexities of urban deer management, exploring the challenges posed by growing deer populations in urban areas. While recreational hunting remains the most effective and practical tool for population control in most settings, an increasing number of circumstances—especially in urban and suburban areas—render it unfeasible. Stephanie and Jessica, both from the Botstiber Institute, outline non-lethal and alternative methods commonly used to manage deer in these environments and walk through the series of decisions required to evaluate which techniques are appropriate and how likely they are to succeed. Below, Stephanie and Jessica have provided resources if you are interested in learning more. Check out the MSU Deer Lab’s online seminar series () 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 () Stephanie Boyles-Griffin: Jessica Tegt: Urban Deer Conflict Management Planning Resources BIWFC Surgical Staten Island Story Map Nonsurgical
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37209300
info_outline
Managing nesting & brooding cover | Wild Turkey Science #443
06/23/2025
Managing nesting & brooding cover | Wild Turkey Science #443
We’re bringing back Dr. Craig Harper’s step-by-step guide on how to create quality brooding and nesting cover on your property. Resources: 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. Dr. Craig Harper () Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Donate to wild turkey research: , Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37098325
info_outline
Public Range, Prescribed Flames | BGWT #442
06/22/2025
Public Range, Prescribed Flames | BGWT #442
Central Oklahoma’s public lands don’t manage themselves. In this episode of Blazin’ Grazin’ and Other Wild Things, veteran wildlife manager Jeff Pennington explains how the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation stewards roughly 125,000 acres of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) scattered from Kansas to Texas. He explains why deer now dominate management goals, how diverse habitats—from Cross Timbers uplands to Red River wetlands—shape every decision, and why prescribed fire remains the single most important habitat tool on state lands. Jeff pulls back the curtain on ODWC’s “snake-flexible” burn crews, averaging 16–17 thousand acres of fire a year on a three-year rotation, while juggling hunters, smoke rules, and unpredictable weather. From summer burns that drive cattle to winter lines that shape quail cover—and the unforgettable day his crew discovered his pants were literally on fire—this conversation delivers field-hardened advice any rural land steward can use. Resources
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37098300
info_outline
Groundhogs | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #441
06/17/2025
Groundhogs | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #441
Whether you call them groundhogs, woodchucks, or whistlepigs, these large squirrels - yes, they’re squirrels - are very interesting, but can also be a challenging critter to deal with when they cause property damage. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss groundhog biology, natural history, the property damage that they sometimes cause, and control options for preventing or dealing with groundhog 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
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37000330
info_outline
Recruitment is down, decoys are up | Wild Turkey Science #440
06/16/2025
Recruitment is down, decoys are up | Wild Turkey Science #440
In this episode, we review trending data across hunter age, hunter recruitment, decoy use, and reaping as Dr. Zach Steele, Post-doctoral associate and interdisciplinary ecologist specializing in human dimensions, walks us through his newest publication. Resources: 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. Dr. Zach Steele Dr. Marcus Lashley , Dr. Will Gulsby , Turkeys for Tomorrow UF Game Lab , Want to help support the podcast? Our friends at have an option to donate directly to Wild Turkey Science at checkout. Thank you in advance for your support! Donate to wild turkey research: , Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? or send us an email at ! - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at 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 . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/37017705
info_outline
Better Habitat on Private Land | BGWT #439
06/14/2025
Better Habitat on Private Land | BGWT #439
In this episode, Josh Richardson from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation unpacks the challenges and triumphs of managing wildlife habitat on the state’s overwhelmingly privately owned lands. With a background in both private and migratory species work, Josh brings a wealth of experience to the table—from quail tracking with GPS to helping landowners realistically match goals with land capacity. He highlights the importance of passion, persistence, and partnerships in building thriving ecosystems. Listeners will hear stories of grassroots conservation in action—friends clearing cedars, landowners creating firebreaks, and people even seeking to attract beavers. Josh walks through how to tap into Oklahoma's Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP), explains how free assistance works, and reminds us that no acreage is too small to make a difference. Whether you’re new to land ownership or part of a multi-generational ranching family, this episode is filled with tools, tips, and inspiration for stewarding the land well. Resources - -
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/36998960
info_outline
Cool Cover, Hot Topic: The Role of Temperature in Quail Survival | Gamebird University #438
06/13/2025
Cool Cover, Hot Topic: The Role of Temperature in Quail Survival | Gamebird University #438
James and Mark are joined by Dr. Dwayne Elmore, Gamebird Program Director at Tall Timbers, for a deep dive into the vital role of thermal ecology in gamebird management—particularly for quail. Dr. Elmore explains how temperature shapes bird behavior, habitat selection, and the critical value of shrub cover in providing thermal refuge. The conversation highlights the need for more research on thermal conditions and their implications for wildlife management, especially in the Southeast. Key insights include the variability of operative temperatures across different cover types and how this influences quail management strategies. The episode also explores nest site selection and how environmental factors like temperature and airflow affect reproductive success. Dr. Elmore discusses the role of vegetation in predator avoidance and the interaction between hunting pressure and bird behavior. The conversation concludes with discussions of ongoing quail restoration efforts and the increasing interest in wildlife management among hunters.
/episode/index/show/naturalresourcesuniversity/id/36998855