How does caring for wildlife and wild places help us care for ourselves? Join MDC’s Lorisa Smith and Dr. Sherri Russell as they discuss how the One Health framework connects the well-being of people, animals, and the environment.

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Just in time for spooky season, Nature Boost is shining a light on one of Missouri’s most misunderstood residents … the tarantula! In this mini episode, hear from experts with the University of Missouri–St. Louis and the Missouri Department of Conservation about their research on Missouri’s native tarantula population. Discover where these “creepy crawlers” call home, what makes them unique, and why they deserve a little love and appreciation, not screams, this Halloween.

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Autumn in Missouri offers more than colorful leaves … it’s a season full of wild flavors, too! In October’s episode, MDC’s Ginger Miller and Pat Whalen join us to guide us through the basics of foraging. Get tips on identifying wild edibles, fun ways to transform them in the kitchen, and how you can harvest food throughout the year! Whether you’re gathering ingredients for a wild treat or looking to learn more about the outdoors, this episode is sure to inspire you to slow down and appreciate Missouri’s natural abundance.

Helpful links discussed in this episode include:

Wild Edibles | Missouri Department of Conservation

Wild Edibles of Missouri

Game Recipes | Missouri Department of Conservation

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Birding is blowing up on TikTok and Instagram lately – especially with younger generations! People from all backgrounds are discovering the joy of this accessible outdoor hobby. But while birding is trending, birds themselves are in trouble. Since 1970, North America has lost nearly 3 billion birds. We hear from Kaylee Woelfel from the Missouri River Bird Observatory on why these declines are happening, and easy steps we all can take to save our birds. And yes, birding is one of them! Helpful links discussed in this episode include:

https://www.3billionbirds.org/

https://mrbo.org/

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Trees are more than just scenery – they’re living investments that provide shade, beauty, wildlife habitat, and a myriad of health benefits. MDC’s Forest Entomologist Robbie Doerhoff is back to tell us how tree health is connected to human health, and how to keep our trees healthy for generations to come. Get practical tips on watering, mulching, and spotting signs of stress and disease. Whether you have a single backyard oak tree or a grove of maples, learn how small steps today can help your trees thrive for years to come.

Helpful resources discussed in this episode:

MDC Tree Planting Guides -- Planting Trees | Missouri Department of Conservation

Find a certified arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture at TreesAreGood.org

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In this Mini Boost, we’re diving into the incredible story of the lake sturgeon — a prehistoric fish making a modern comeback! Once on the brink of disappearing from many Midwestern waters, lake sturgeon are now at the center of inspiring conservation efforts right here in Missouri. Join us as we explore the biology, history, and recovery of this iconic species with MDC Fisheries Biologist Travis Moore and learn how biologists are working to ensure these ancient giants continue to thrive.

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The hiking boots are broken in, the bag is packed (but hopefully not overpacked), and the trailhead is in sight! Join Jill as she sees if all her prep paid off as she sets off on her first backpacking trip in the Mark Twain National Forest. Topics include what Jill packed (and what she wish she had), advice and stories from program instructors and other backpackers, and the sounds and serenity of the beautiful Paddy Creek Wilderness Trail. Whether you’re planning your own first trip or just curious about life off the grid, this episode is a candid, immersive look at stepping into the wild for the first time.

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Thinking about hitting the trail for your first backpacking trip? Us, too! Join Jill as she prepares to backpack in the Mark Twain National Forest as part of MDC’s Backpacking 101 program. This episode has hiking tips, expert advice from MDC’s backpacking instructors, and personal stories from Missouri Conservationist Magazine Editor Larry Archer (who has a magazine article coming out on backpacking!) Whether you’re heading out for a weekend or dreaming of thru-hiking, this episode will help you feel confident and prepared for your journey. Lace up those boots – your adventure starts now!

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From coastal marshes to inland swamps, wetlands are the unsung heroes of nature. This month, Nature Boost is giving them the spotlight they deserve in honor of American Wetlands Month! MDC Wetlands Ecologist Frank Nelson gives us a tour of Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area near Columbia and tells us what wetlands are, why the matter, and why we should totally care. Think natural water filters, flood protection, wildlife hangouts, and even climate superheroes (wetlands store carbon like champs). Tune in to this episode to fall in love with marshes, bogs, swamps, and all the wet and wild places in between. Find a wetland to visit by checking out the MDC website at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4fv

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In honor or Arbor Day, Nature Boost is going a little nutty for Missouri’s very own black walnut. Known as the Show-Me State’s toughest nut to crack, black walnuts are more than just a snack – they’re a deep-rooted part of Missouri’s culture, economy, and forests. To learn more, we visited the famous Hammons Black Walnuts in Stockton, Missouri, to speak with Hammons Executive Vice President Jacob Basecke. For over 70 years, Hammons has been supplying the nation with black walnuts – a majority of which are wild-harvested right here in Missouri! Listen and learn about these flavorful and protein-rich nuts, how Hammons processes them, and how you can even sell your own black walnuts! Learn more from Hammons Black Walnuts at black-walnuts.com

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