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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Tree seedling nurseries are the unsung heroes of reforestation, conservation, and even urban greening projects. This episode takes you behind the scenes of George O. White State Forest Nursery in Licking, Missouri, which has been providing tree seedlings for more than 90 years! Learn how the nursery came to be, hear about the tremendous work it takes to grow numerous species of tree seedlings, and how the staff can help you with your next planting project!

And good news, you can still buy tree seedlings from the nursery through April 15. Supplies are limited! Order online at https://mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/tree-seedlings/order-seedlings or call the nursery at 573-674-3229.

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Need a mini boost? You’re in luck! Nature Boost is bringing back its bite-sized episodes to give you another dose of the outdoors. In this mini boost, we’re learning about the unique names of full moons throughout the year. Why is the full moon in March referred to as the “Worm Moon”? And is April’s “Pink Moon” actually pink? Listen and learn the history of these names and how each full moon is connected to the rhythm of life on earth.

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In our February episode, we’re discussing nature’s ultimate

engineers – beavers! From their impressive dams to their ability to shape

entire ecosystems, beavers play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of

their habitats. MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock is back again to shed

light on these industrious rodents, how they shape the landscape and help

wildlife thrive in the process. Learn more about Missouri’s beaver population

in our online Field Guide at short.mdc.mo.gov/4dk

If you’d like to learn more about mitigating conflict with

beavers on your property, check out short.mdc.mo.gov/4VU

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Don’t hit snooze on our first episode of 2025! We’re kicking

off the new year by looking into the quirky history of Groundhog Day. From its

ancient European roots to its evolution into a beloved American tradition,

Nature Boost explores how this strange holiday came to be. MDC Naturalist

Austin Lambert also gives insight into one of Missouri’s most well-known

rodents. Learn more about groundhogs in our online Field Guide at

missouriconservation.org.

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Take break from the holiday frenzy and learn what natural events occur during these last days of 2024. Need last-minute gifts? There are many options for nature lovers in the MDC Nature Shop! Order nature guides, cookbooks, and our popular Natural Events Calendar at mdcnatureshop.com 

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