In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Jon Steigerwaldt, a Forest Conservation Director for the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society. Jon talks about the critical habitat work happening in the Driftless Region and northeast Iowa, highlighting the challenges facing ruffed grouse populations, the impact of forest management, and ongoing conservation efforts. From habitat restoration to dealing with invasive species, this conversation covers key conservation strategies while also touching on Jon’s experiences hunting and training his bird dog, Hazel.

Jon Steigerwaldt is a dedicated conservationist and upland bird hunter with a deep background in forestry and forest ecology. With a focus on sustainable forest management, Jon works with multiple states across the Upper Midwest to improve habitats for ruffed grouse, woodcock, and other species. In his role with the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society, Jon is directly involved in large-scale projects to restore forest ecosystems and support wildlife populations in the Driftless Region and beyond.

The importance of forest management for ruffed grouse and other upland species

How dynamic forest restoration blocks help improve habitat for grouse populations

Challenges faced by forest management in the Driftless Region, including parcelization and topography

The role of invasive species like multiflora rose and honeysuckle in disrupting habitat

Jon's insights into training bird dogs like his setter, Hazel, and the role of dogs in upland hunting

Current efforts to revitalize grouse populations in northeast Iowa and other parts of the Midwest

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] - Introduction

[04:00] - Nick’s First Ruffed Grouse Hunt of the Year

[10:22] - Jon’s Bird Dog, Hazel, and How She’s Developed Over the Years

[11:32] - Jon’s First Big Dog

[13:33] - Jon’s Career and Education

[23:01] - Parcelization and Landowner Challenges in Logging

[35:51] - Invasive Species and Their Impact on Forest Ecosystems

[44:50] - Forest Management After Natural Disasters

[50:13] - Stewardship Agreements and Reinvestment Into Forests

[57:28] - Upcoming Events and Community Management

Follow the Guest Jon:

Ruffed Grouse Society: https://ruffedgrousesociety.org/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruffedgrousesociety/?hl=en 

Fall Membership 2025: https://ruffedgrousesociety.org/ 

Follow the Host Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast

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