A podcast all about learning in and about nature while supporting our park system. Join Nature Photographer Rebecca Stone and Nature and Fitness Enthusiast Bernie Hugan as they travel park to park participating in park programming. Their guests take a deep dive into the fascinating world of the great outdoors.
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The episode offers insights into bird watching, the importance of volunteering, and how different seasons provide diverse nature experiences at the park.
In this episode of Part-time Parkers, hosts Rebecca and Bernie visit Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park to learn about fungi and mushrooms with Neelun Lew, Vice President, and Fenner Martin Morse, Director of Microscopy, from the Blue Grass Mycological Society. They discuss the origins and goals of their society, personal journeys into mycology, different types of fungi, conservation, and the importance of citizen science through platforms like iNaturalist. They emphasize the need for public participation in gathering data to close the knowledge gap in mycology and the unique challenges
Ever wondered about the real value of America's roadless areas? This week, our special guest Ben Prater from Defenders of Wildlife shares insights on why these wild spaces are crucial for our ecosystems and economic well-being. Listen to this week’s episode of Part-Time Parkers to learn how you can make a difference!
Join Bernie and Rebecca on Part-Time Parkers as they talk with Julianne Jacobs from the Center for Mollusk Conservation. Explore the hidden world of freshwater mussels—their vital role in cleaning waterways, the innovative conservation techniques used to protect them, and their connections to host fish and Hellbender salamanders. A fascinating look at how these overlooked creatures keep aquatic ecosystems thriving.
Ready to hit the trails? Join Part-Time Parkers at Wade Bourne Nature Center—an oasis in Clarksville, TN. Whether it's bird watching or exploring native flowers, Katie and her team make it a memorable experience for all!
Bumblebees play a crucial role in our ecosystem, and you can too! Join us for a captivating episode with Avery Young, an endangered species conservation biologist, and learn about the Southeast Bumblebee Atlas.
Dive into our latest episode of Part-Time Parkers with experts from Defenders of Wildlife. Discover the remarkable habitats worth protecting. Listen now!
Take a hike with us at David Crockett State Park! Our latest episode of Part-Time Parkers explores the wonderful 'Tales to Trails' program, & how hiking with shelter dogs benefits everyone involved!
Did you know eagles can have nests up to 2 tons? Discover more fascinating eagle facts and conservation success stories in our new episode with Shannon Brockway, a naturalist with the Woodlands Nature Station with Bernie and Rebecca as they visit Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
Did you know eagles can have nests up to 2 tons? Discover more fascinating eagle facts and conservation success stories in our new episode with Shannon Brockway, a naturalist with the Woodlands Nature Station with Bernie and Rebecca as they visit Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
Join Bernie and Rebecca as they visit Harmony Wildlife and chat with Kady Sullivan, the education director, about their journey in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. Kady shares insights on the facility’s efforts to care for Tennessee's injured and orphaned native wildlife, with a special focus on their owl and bat rehab programs. Discover the challenges they face, the importance of community support, and practical advice for coexisting with local wildlife. Learn about their educational outreach, volunteer contributions, and how you can support their mission.
Welcome to Part-Time Parkers! In this episode, we explore the parks of Burlington, Iowa, with Bernie and her hometown guests. Join us as we uncover the rich history and incredible diversity of Burlington's park system, featuring community development initiatives, conservation stories, and the many recreational activities available. Our guests, including Eric Tissin, Ryan Gorley, and Brad Selby, share their experiences and the importance of parks in bringing the community together. Discover hidden gems like Snake Alley, Perkins Park, and the RECplex, and learn about the challenges and triumphs
In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Bernie and Rebecca visit the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens in Dothan, Alabama. They interview the executive director, Join Part-Time Parkers as they visit Warner Park in Nashville, Tennessee. Naturalists Elise and Jessa share their experiences working with various conservation projects including the creation of pollinator gardens and the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project. Learn about the importance of native plants, the impact of pollinators, and how community engagement and education play a crucial role in conservation efforts. Tune in for an insigh
In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Bernie and Rebecca visit the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens in Dothan, Alabama. They interview the executive director, William Holman, who shares the history, development, and unique features of the botanical gardens. From its origins as a soybean farm to becoming a beloved community space, the gardens host a variety of plants, walking trails, and special areas like the butterfly house. They discuss the importance of conservation and education, the numerous volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events that bring the community together. This episode pr
Join Part-time Parkers at Landmark Park in Dothan, Alabama, for an exciting episode of Part-Time Parkers. This special day celebrates Fall Farm Day, featuring activities like soap making and blacksmithing. Meet David Jay, the park's executive director, and Kristen Pierce, the marketing manager, as they share stories about the park's history, its unique attractions, and the importance of outdoor education. Learn how the park operates primarily through volunteers and community support, and discover the joys of outdoor activities that connect generations. Perfect for families looking to explore t
Join Bernie and Rebecca on Part-Time Parkers as they talk with Julianne Jacobs from the Center for Mollusk Conservation. Explore the hidden world of freshwater mussels—their vital role in cleaning waterways, the innovative conservation techniques used to protect them, and their connections to host fish and Hellbender salamanders. A fascinating look at how these overlooked creatures keep aquatic ecosystems thriving.
In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, Bernie and Rebecca chat with Ivan Chester of Habitat Landscapes, keynote speaker at Warner Park’s Hummingbird Celebration. Ivan shares his journey from self-taught gardener to native plant landscaper and explains why native plants are vital for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Learn how to create wildlife-friendly yards, use non-toxic pest control, and choose plants that thrive in your region. A must-listen for anyone hoping to make their yard more eco-friendly and supportive of local wildlife.
Join Part-time Parkers as they visit Carolina Beach State Park with superintendent Crystal Lloyd. Discover the fascinating world of carnivorous plants like the Venus Fly Trap, explore the park’s unique habitats, and learn how conservation efforts like prescribed burns protect these ecosystems. Crystal also shares her path to becoming a park ranger and the many roles involved in preserving North Carolina’s natural treasures.
Join Part-Time Parkers' as they explore Dunbar Cave State Park, with special guest Ranger Adam. Discover the rich history, intriguing mysteries, and significant conservation efforts of this beautiful 144-acre park in Clarksville, Tennessee. Learn about the park's indigenous heritage, its transformation from a popular resort to a state park, and the captivating cave art that dates back 10,000 years. Don't miss out on the fascinating stories, lost houses, and forgotten graves revealed in this episode.
Join Bernie and Rebecca at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, where they chat with Ranger Benjamin Fleming. Learn about the park’s rich history as North Carolina’s oldest functioning state park and its vital sea turtle conservation efforts. From historic forts to coastal wildlife, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural and cultural treasures of Fort Macon.
Dive into the fascinating history and sustainable practices at Port Royal State Historic Park with Ranger Danny on Part-Time Parkers.
Join Part-time Parkers as they explore Shelby Park, Bottoms, and Greenway with special guests Tony Lance from the Tennessee Wildlife Federation and Lana Friedman from Shelly Bottoms Nature Center. They discuss birding tips, conservation efforts, and the fascinating experiences that make these natural areas special. Discover how to start birding, the importance of bird songs, and how to create a certified wildlife habitat in your backyard. Don't miss out on learning about the different parks in Nashville and how you can get involved in their birding programs. Happy birding!
In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Rebecca and Bernie visit Edgar Evans State Park where they participate in a food preservation program. They are joined by local Ranger Justin Vaughn, who shares his journey to becoming a park ranger and his local expertise. They also discuss the importance of learning and preserving traditional skills, along with information about various upcoming historical and conservation programs at the park. Tune in to learn more about the park's offerings and hear some entertaining stories from the canning session.
Dr. Anthony Abbate from Auburn University speaks to us about his work with native bees in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology. Dr. Abbate discusses the importance of pollinators, the alarming decline in pollinator populations, and how the public can help through initiatives like the iNaturalist project. He also provides practical advice on cultivating wildflower gardens and native grasses to promote pollinator habitats. The episode underscores the critical need for conservation efforts to support pollinators.
Join hosts Rebecca and Bernie on Part-time Parkers as they interview wildlife biologist Ray Metzler. Ray shares insights from his 30-year career with Alabama's state gaming fish agency and his current role with the Alabama Forestry Commission. He discusses his work on endangered species, the importance of conservation, and how simple actions can make a big difference in preserving natural habitats. From the fascinating lives of woodpeckers to the immense biodiversity in Alabama, this episode is packed with valuable information for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts alike.
