The Nature of Idaho

The Nature of Idaho

By KISU-FMScienceNature
Download on the App Store

The Nature of Idaho episodes

  • The Nature of Idaho: Greater Yellowstone Coalition
    This episode of "The Nature of Idaho" features Shana Drimal, wildlife program manager for the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, discussing the importance of Yellowstone’s bison and ongoing conservation strategies. Key topics include the history and recovery of bison populations from near extinction to about 5,000 animals today, challenges due to limited migration outside the park because of habitat loss and state policies, and the ecological benefits bison bring to grassland health and other species. The conversation highlights collaborative projects such as habitat leases, conflict prevention, and fence installations to foster coexistence between bison, landowners, and local communities—showcasing how simple solutions and shifting attitudes can deliver major gains for wildlife preservation in Idaho and across North America.
    30 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Fish in Idaho
    This episode of "The Nature of Idaho" features Dr. Ernest Keeley, a fish biologist from Idaho State University, discussing the state's unique fish populations, the impact of native and invasive species, and conservation efforts. Key topics include Idaho's 44 native fish species, challenges from over 50 introduced species (many for sport fishing), local adaptations like endemic sculpin species, and the importance of protecting habitats and practicing responsible recreation to preserve Idaho’s aquatic diversity—highlighted by the exclusive presence of the Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the upper Snake River.
    30 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Urban Trees
    This episode of The Nature of Idaho features hosts Dr. Leif Tapanila and Peter Pruett in conversation with Lance Davisson, Executive Director of the Treasure Valley Canopy Network, and Hannah Sanger, Environmental Administrator for the city of Pocatello, discussing the crucial role of urban trees in Idaho’s arid cities. They explore why cities must intentionally plant and care for trees to provide shade, reduce energy use, clean water, and create livable urban environments, emphasizing the challenges posed by Idaho’s climate and soil conditions. Both guests highlight the importance of tree diversity to prevent disease vulnerability and support wildlife, as well as the collaboration between nonprofits and cities to fund, plan, and maintain urban forests. The conversation also touches on practical tree selection guidance tailored to local conditions and the broader theme of community engagement for sustaining healthy urban canopies in Idaho's unique environment.
    30 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Wood River Wolf Project
    In this episode of The Nature of Idaho, hosts Dr. Leif Tapanila and Peter Pruett are joined by Suzanne Asha Stone, Executive Director of the International Wildlife Coexistence Network, to explore the Wood River Wolf Project in Blaine County, Idaho. The conversation highlights how innovative, non-lethal deterrents such as fladry, Fox lights, and livestock guardian dogs have enabled ranchers and wolves to coexist, dramatically reducing livestock losses and wolf killings. The episode delves into the ecological benefits of wolves, the importance of removing livestock carcasses to prevent predator attraction, and the global impact of coexistence strategies, emphasizing that collaboration, education, and adaptation are key to sustaining both biodiversity and rural livelihoods.
    30 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Three Island Crossing State Park
    In this episode of "The Nature of Idaho," hosts Dr. Leif Tapanila (Idaho Museum of Natural History) and Peter Pruitt (Zoo Idaho) are joined by Kevin Fossen, park ranger at Three Island Crossing State Park in southern Idaho. The conversation explores the park’s natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, encouraging listeners to discover this often-overlooked gem along the Snake River near Glenns Ferry.
    28 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Portneuf Valley Tennis Association
    In this episode, Dr. Leif Tapanila and Peter Pruett engage in an in-depth conversation with Tor Lynn and Dennis Gibbens, who serve as the President and Vice President, respectively, of the Portneuf Valley Tennis Association. Together, they explore the development, challenges, and unique characteristics of the tennis community in Idaho, highlighting local initiatives, youth engagement, and the growing interest in the sport across the region.
    30 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Spud Mother
    In this episode, Dr. Leif Tapanila and Peter Pruett engage in a conversation with Spud Mother, a band hailing from Pocatello, in anticipation of their live performance at the Treefort Music Fest in Boise.
    30 min
  • The Nature of Idaho: Western Watersheds
    In this episode, Dr. Leif Tapanila and Peter Pruett are joined by Erik Molvar and Greg LeDonne (dawn) from the Western Watersheds Project to discuss livestock grazing and its potential impacts on our western landscapes.
    32 min

About The Nature of Idaho

From the publisher's feed

Hosted by Zoo Idaho Superintendent Peter Pruett and Idaho Museum of Natural History Director Dr. Leif Tapanila, The Nature of Idaho explores how the Gem State’s wild landscapes shape its past,…