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.
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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. 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
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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
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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 -
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 - -
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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.
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It’s not just turkeys | Wild Turkey Science #437
06/09/2025
It’s not just turkeys | Wild Turkey Science #437
In this episode, we explore the findings of a recent state of the bird report, highlighting the interconnectedness and decline of species across ecosystems. 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 , 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
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Stratification | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #436
06/03/2025
Stratification | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #436
Ponds can naturally separate with warm oxygenated water near the surface and a cooler, unoxygenated layer in deeper areas. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss pond stratification, summer fish kills, and how aeration may help maintain a thriving pond ecosystem. 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
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Illumination in the Flatwoods (Lashley edition) | Wild Turkey Science #435
06/02/2025
Illumination in the Flatwoods (Lashley edition) | Wild Turkey Science #435
In this episode, Marcus shares insights from his personal experience being imprinted upon by a brood of turkey poults. Join as he shares details of the imprinting process, critical factors affecting the survival and growth of poults, rapid behavioral changes as they grow, what has surprised him the most so far, and more. Check out the footage in this episode's YouTube video: 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 , 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
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From Habitat to Land Taxes: A Landowner's Conservation Journey | Wild Ag #434
06/02/2025
From Habitat to Land Taxes: A Landowner's Conservation Journey | Wild Ag #434
Joining us this month on the podcast is a local Nebraska landowner, Merlyn Nielsen, to talk about his experiences implementing conservation practices on his farmland. From creating habitat to hunt pheasants and improve sustainability to a tip for reduced land taxes, Merlyn shares the joys and benefits of his conservation projects as well as some of the barriers encountered along the way. Resources: 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: Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
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Managed Chaos: Fire & Grazing Unite In The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve | BGWT #433
05/31/2025
Managed Chaos: Fire & Grazing Unite In The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve | BGWT #433
In this episode of Blazin' Grazin' and Other Wild Things, we travel through the story of the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve with Bob Hamilton from The Nature Conservancy. Bob shares how this iconic Oklahoma landscape transitioned from a failed federal park plan to a flagship private conservation project. He recounts the acquisition of the land, the reintroduction of bison, and the development of a dynamic management model that utilizes fire and grazing to simulate natural prairie processes. Joining Oklahoma State University’s John Weir and Dr. Laura Goodman, Bob discusses how fire behaves on the prairie, how patch-burn grazing supports a variety of wildlife, and how GPS tracking has helped compare cattle and bison behavior. From historic land surveys to present-day fireline strategies, this conversation highlights decades of dedication to restoring and maintaining Oklahoma’s native grasslands. Resources - -
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Thinning for Wildlife Objectives | Timber University #432
05/30/2025
Thinning for Wildlife Objectives | Timber University #432
In this episode, Dr. Tanger and Dr. Self are joined by Dr. Bronson Strickland as they consider how wildlife objectives can influence thinning regimes in forest management. Dr. Bronson Strickland, the Godfather of Timber University and co-Host of Deer University, our sister program. Dr. Strickland is the St. John Family Endowed Professor of Wildlife Management at Mississippi State University. For questions or comments, email us at .
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Fire, predators, & nesting success…oh my! | Wild Turkey Science #431
05/26/2025
Fire, predators, & nesting success…oh my! | Wild Turkey Science #431
In this episode, we walk through Will’s new publication researching the effects of prescribed fire on artificial wild turkey nest survival. Join as we dive into the complexities of nest predation, the impact of fire management on nesting success, the relationship between canopy cover and fire, limitations of study designs, and more. 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 , 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
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Dire Wolves | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #430
05/23/2025
Dire Wolves | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #430
Recent claims about “de-extinction” of dire wolves have resulted in an abundance of headlines, memes, and discussion about the biology and ethics of what was happening. To contribute to the discussion, Drew and Joe invited their video production specialist, Danny, into the studio to ask questions and discuss genetics, ethics, and the current state of wolf populations. 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
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Blazing Trails for Quail Across the Great Plains | BGWT #429
05/22/2025
Blazing Trails for Quail Across the Great Plains | BGWT #429
In this fiery new episode of Blazin' Grazin' and Other Wild Things, we bring the heat with special guests from Quail Forever—Tanner Swank and Adam Ray. They join hosts John Weir and Dr. Mark Turner to discuss how fire, community collaboration, and science-based management are revitalizing Oklahoma's native grasslands and Cross Timbers. Learn how Quail Forever's landscape-level work benefits not only game species like bobwhite and pheasant, but also pollinators, deer, and the entire ecosystem. Whether you’re a land manager, extension professional, or outdoorsperson, you’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of fire and the people who wield it wisely. Resources - - - - -
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Big Rivers (with guest, Dr. Mike Eggleton) | Ep 428
05/21/2025
Big Rivers (with guest, Dr. Mike Eggleton) | Ep 428
The central United States is known for its big rivers. From the mighty Mississippi to its tributaries that include the Missouri, Ohio, and Arkansas River, these large rivers drain about 41% of the U.S. including 31 states. They are important for our economy as corridors for transportation, and they are important as recreational fisheries. But they are facing many threats. From river modification, to urbanization, to invasive species, to changing precipitation patterns, these rivers aren’t the same as they once were. Wes discusses these impacts with Dr. Mike Eggleton, a fisheries professor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Mike’s research career has been largely focused on large river fisheries and ecology, and he shares some of his stories and insight on ol’ man river. Do you have questions or comments? Follow the and chat with Wes or suggest future episodes!
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Status of Rios, Merriam’s, & Easterns in OK | Wild Turkey Science #427
05/19/2025
Status of Rios, Merriam’s, & Easterns in OK | Wild Turkey Science #427
Today we’re talking turkeys in Oklahoma with Marcus Thibodeau and Eric Suttles, wild turkey biologists for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Join as they disclose the status of subspecies across the state, harvest rates, seasons dates, habitat challenges across the state, successful and unsuccessful restocking efforts, on-going research, assistance for landowners, and more. 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. Marcus Thibodeau Eric Suttles 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
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Changing Habitats, Changing Minds: Game Bird Myths and Realities | Gamebird University #426
05/18/2025
Changing Habitats, Changing Minds: Game Bird Myths and Realities | Gamebird University #426
Gamebird University dives into the conservation and management of gamebirds, uncovering the science behind these efforts. From waterfowl and quail to turkeys, woodcock, and beyond, no gamebird species is off the table for discussion. The show also features engaging discussions on bird dogs and bird hunting. Whether you're passionate about gamebird management or an avid hunter, this podcast is for you! This podcast is part of the Natural Resources University Podcast Network. Hosts of Gamebird University: James Callicutt, Waterfowl and Upland Gamebird Extension Specialist, Mississippi State University Extension Service Mark McConnell, Assistant professor of Upland Birds, Mississippi State University Forest and Wildlife Research Center Brian Davis, Professor of Waterfowl and Wetlands, Mississippi State University Forest and Wildlife Research Center
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Patch-Burned Into History | BGWT #425
05/17/2025
Patch-Burned Into History | BGWT #425
We’re honored to host Dr. Dave Engle—Regents Professor Emeritus at Oklahoma State University and a pioneer in fire ecology. From wildland firefighting in New Mexico to building OSU’s fire program with just two torches and a vision, Dave shares an incredible career rooted in science, stewardship, and some good ol’ fashioned trial and error. We dive into the origins of patch-burn grazing, the challenges of managing the Cross Timbers, and why eastern redcedar became his lifelong nemesis. Dr. Engle reflects on the research that changed policy, perceptions, and the trajectory of conservation in the Great Plains. If you care about fire, land, or legacy, this episode is a must-listen. Resources: - - - -
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A poult’s life | Wild Turkey Science #424
05/12/2025
A poult’s life | Wild Turkey Science #424
Dr. Kelly O’Neil breaks down details of our latest research project focused on poult behavior and development. Join as she walks us step-by-step through a poult’s life - from egg collection to incubation, hatching, imprinting, and development until flight. 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 , 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
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Birds, Burns, & Wetlands: Springtime Gamebird Management | Gamebird University #423
05/12/2025
Birds, Burns, & Wetlands: Springtime Gamebird Management | Gamebird University #423
In this episode, Mark and James sit down to discuss what landowners and managers should be thinking about as spring arrives. From prescribed fire in upland habitats to wetland management during spring and summer, they cover key seasonal considerations for supporting gamebird populations. The conversation also touches on quail call surveys, the spring migration of waterfowl, and new insights from their ongoing GPS mallard research. Plus, they tease an upcoming episode focused on busting common myths and misconceptions in the gamebird world.
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The Bidwell Way: Restoring Land with Fire, Grazing, and a Little Grit | BGWT #422
05/12/2025
The Bidwell Way: Restoring Land with Fire, Grazing, and a Little Grit | BGWT #422
In this episode of Blazin’ Grazin’ and Other Wild Things, Dr. Bidwell — emeritus professor and longtime OSU Extension specialist — shares how prescribed fire, patch grazing, and a deep understanding of native plants can turn overgrown pastures into thriving, profitable landscapes. From chasing helicopters to chasing quail, his experience is equal parts science and grit. We dive into the real-world application of fire on the land, why “weeds” might actually help your cattle, and how seasonality affects everything from forage to wildlife. Plus, you’ll hear how Bidwell and others helped shift decades of landowner perception to embrace fire as a powerful tool for conservation. Whether you’re a landowner, rancher, or just love a good story from the fire line, this episode brings wisdom, wit, and the kind of practical knowledge you can’t find in a textbook. Find all resources at
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Online Wild Turkey Training | Wild Turkey Science #421
05/05/2025
Online Wild Turkey Training | Wild Turkey Science #421
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. This course is intended to be comprehensive, leading you through advanced concepts in habitat management, predator management, disease, and overall population management. 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 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
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Hunting Access, Hometown Impact | WildAg #420
05/05/2025
Hunting Access, Hometown Impact | WildAg #420
Have you ever struggled to find areas to hunt? Especially in Nebraska, where over 97% of the state is privately owned land, access to hunting can be difficult to come by. We know from previous research that a lack of access is also a top reason why people stop hunting or don't start at all. But public access programs like Open Fields and Waters and the Nebraska Community Access Partnership are tackling this issue head-on. For any hunter interested, these programs provide access to quality private lands to hunt; for landowners, it's another way to bring in a little extra income. This month we are joined by Adam Kester, Access Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Addie Piernicky, NCAP Coordinating Wildlife Biologist at Pheasants Forever, to learn all about how these programs are transforming hunting access in Nebraska and beyond. Resources: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Offices: Alliance: 308-763-2940, Bassett: 402-684-2921, Kearney: 308-865-5310, Lincoln: 402-471-5561, Norfolk: 402-370-3374, North Platte: 308-535-8025 Addie Piernicky [] Adam Kester [] 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! Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin
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