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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Woelful 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/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The outdoors has a special way of bringing peace and erasing stress, and November is a time we reflect on the things we’re thankful for. MDC Communications Branch Chief Heather Feeler discusses how her program, The Spirit of Gratitude, can help us increase energy and inspiration, foster self-improvement, and regain the spark and joy in living out our mission.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bigfoot, Sasquatch, and Mo Mo? In celebration of Halloween, Nature Boost is looking into the story of Mo Mo the Missouri Monster. Sightings of the creature date back to the early 1970s in the small town of Louisiana. Telling us more about this monstrous history is Louisiana Historical Museum President Brent Engel. Are you a Mo Mo skeptic? This episode may just turn you into a believer! Special thanks to Musician Bill Whyte for his original song Mo Mo the Missouri Monster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thousands of volunteers dedicate their free time to conserving Missouri’s blue spaces. Since 1989, Missouri Stream Teams have worked to remove trash from waterways, plant trees along streams, remove invasive plants, and more. MDC Volunteer Programs Manager Rebecca O’Hearn and Volunteer Engagement Specialist Brian Waldrop highlight the important work Stream Teams has completed in its 35 years and discuss how you can join the movement. Start your own Stream Team at mostreamteam.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A fish with cobra-like coloring, a set of teeth, and the capability to live on land for several days has made its way into Missouri. MDC has confirmed numerous reports of the northern snakehead in the state and needs your help to track it. Invasive Species Ecologist Angela Sokolowski and Fisheries Program Angler Outreach Specialist Andrew Branson tell us more about this unique fish, why it’s a problem, and what to do if you catch one. Reports of northern snakeheads can be made by calling the MDC Southeast Regional Office at 573-290-5730 or online at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4Ek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When temperatures warm up, black bears move across the landscape … once again reminding us that Missouri is bear country! As part of MDC’s black bear research, biologists trap and study bears in the summer to assess survival, habitat, and movements. Black Bear Biologist Nate Bowersock explains what happens during these research trips and what his team does with the data. Later, Wildlife Damage Biologist Josh Wisdom explains why it’s important for Missourians to be “BearWise.” Learn more about black bears at missouriconservation.org and learn how to live responsibly with bears by visiting bearwise.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Does Missouri have mountain lions? Yes and no. Many sightings of these large cats turn out to be a case of mistaken identity. Although mountain lions were once as common as deer in Missouri, they were eradicated in the 19th century. If that’s the case, why are we seeing these cats pop up now and again? Are they making a comeback? Is there cause for alarm? MDC’s Wildlife Management Coordinator Alan Leary answers these questions and more in this episode. And be sure to check out the MDC website to learn more about MDC’s Mountain Lion Response Team, a list of all confirmed mountain lion reports in the state, and more mountain lion facts. Visit mdc.mo.gov/wildlife/report-wildlife-sightings/mountain-lion-reports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.