Podcasts

Learn the science behind bloom time and how your own observations of cherry blossoms and other dynamic life cycles in nature –or phenology – can help scientists monitor climate change and examine shifts in nature’s calendar. Jake F. Weltzin, US Geological Survey Ecologist and Executive Director of the USA National Phenology Network discusses how scientists use information about phenology to better understand the delicate interaction between plants and animals, climate change, and environmental health. Read More >

In 1942, the whooping crane population in North America drastically declined to a mere 16 birds. Intense efforts by the Patuxent Wildlife Research to breed cranes in captivity and reintroduce them into wild habitats began in the 1960s. This work has helped the population grow to about 500. U.S. Geological Survey Research Manager Dr. John French discusses whooping crane reintroductions, the research that enabled such work and its implications for other reintroduction projects. Read More >

The Lower Congo River is home to a uniquely high diversity of fish species living in isolated populations in specific locations. U.S. Geological Survey South Carolina Water Science Center Associate Director John Shelton discusses key features of the river which may be causing this trend and their implications to the River’s ecosystem. Read More >

Hurricanes Katrina, Isabel, and Ivan left unimaginable devastation in their wake, impacting archeological resources and museum collections from Louisiana to Virginia. National Park Service Senior Staff Archaeologist Bob Sonderman discusses the impact that these and other events have had on historic properties, archeological sites, and museum collections and how the National Park Service Museum Emergency Response Team (MERT) has responded. Read More >

Learn how home gardening can be more ecologically friendly and sustainable. Ray Mims, United States Botanic Garden Conservation Horticulturist, discusses the basics of soil, conserving water, planting the appropriate plants in suitable locations, the importance of choosing native species over exotics, and the impact of invasive plants. Read More >

Since the founding of the nation, art has created constituencies for the preservation of its most revered natural areas and places of historic and cultural significance. Roger Kennedy, former Director of the National Park Service, and Director Emeritus of the National Museum of American History, discusses how the New Deal put the arts, including painting, music, theater, and architecture, to work and its influence on the development of the National Park Service. Read More >

Rainfall in urban areas can result in the overflow of local streams, rivers, and sewers. DC Greenworks Interim Executive Director Sara Loveland discusses regional rainwater-management concerns, the local legislative landscape, and opportunities for the federal government to increase their environmental stewardship by constructing green roofs and utilizing other low-impact development techniques. Read More >