Videos and Webinars
Below you can find conservation and working lands videos and webinars developed by our partners. These webinars are meant for a wide range of audiences — from technical experts and practitioners to landowners and the public.
WLFW Pollinator Conservation Series: Session #5 SWAP & Listed Species in the Southeast
Session 5 of WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar series, presented by Celia Vuocolo, WLFW Pollinator Coordinator-East with Quail Forever & USDA-NRCS. Topics covered include an overview of a selection of State Wildlife Action Plan SGCNs and federal/state listed pollinator species. Conservation planning strategies for planners and biologists.
WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar Series: Session # 4 Monarch in the Southeast
Session 4 of WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar series, presented by Dr. Ray Moranz, Grazing Lands Pollinator Ecologist for the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. This session focuses on the Monarch butterfly in the Southeast, and is the second of three sessions on “pollinator species of conservation concern” in the series. Topics covered include Monarch life history, conservation threats & status, management considerations and Southeast region plants species that support Monarchs.
WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar Series: Session #3 Bumble Bees in the Southeast
Session 3 of WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar series, presented by Celia Vuocolo, WLFW Pollinator Coordinator-East with Quail Forever & USDA-NRCS. This session focuses on Bumble Bees in the Southeast, and will be the first of three sessions on “pollinator species of conservation concern” in the series. Topics covered include bumble bee life history, conservation threats & status, species found in the southeast, management considerations and plants for supporting bumble bees.
WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar Series: Session #2 Who are the Southeast Region’s Pollinators?
Session 2 of WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar series, presented by Celia Vuocolo, WLFW Pollinator Coordinator-East with Quail Forever & USDA-NRCS. In the second session of the series, topics covered include an overview of pollinator communities in the Southeast, six native been families in the US, other major pollinator groups and some fundamental planning considerations and recommendations.
WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar Series: Session #1 Pollination Biology
Session 1 of WLFW Pollinator Conservation Webinar series, presented by Celia Vuocolo, WLFW Pollinator Coordinator-East with Quail Forever & USDA-NRCS. In this first session of the series, topics covered include threats to pollinators, plant pollination strategies, pollinator foraging behaviors, and a quick overview of bees of conservation concern.
Intro to 'Ted Takeaways'
A welcome video with Ted Coopwood III, President and CEO of Coopwood Enterprises and conservation expert. Ted joined the Landscape Partnership to speak about his leadership and diversity, equity, and inclusion in conservation. This video accompanies two short podcasts about how to recognize and center diverse voices in conservation and working lands efforts.
Video: Standing with Black Farmers
Short video interviewing Black farmers about experiences and challenges they faced due to racial discrimination.
Video: Environmental Justice is About Engaging with Communities on a Personal Level
Short video with Edith Pestana. Part of a series from the EPA featuring federal and local government officials, non-profit leaders, and students, who tell stories about the lessons they have learned over their time working on environmental justice.
NIFA's Information Webinar on Climate Change Programs
Rapidly changing climate is one of the most pressing issues facing farmers, ranchers, landowners, households and communities. To address these climate change challenges, individuals, families and communities need the best available science to plan for and implement climate-smart and resilient practices. n this webinar, National Program Leaders from each of the outlined programs gave a brief description of the program, proposal submission deadlines and other pertinent program information. This webinar is especially useful for project directors with climate based/climate emphasized research, Extension and education projects.
Environmental Justice and Agriculture
Dr. Sacoby Wilson and Dr. Frank K. Lake provide definitions and examples of the links between environmental justice, traditional ecological knowledge, climate change, and agriculture and forestry.
Climate Change Impact: Food Systems, Food Security, and Global Linkages
Food systems both impact and are affected by climate change. Emissions come not only from farming, but also from the processing, manufacturing, distribution, storage, sale, and preparation of food, and the disposal of food wastes. Likewise, climate change influences not just agriculture, but activities that occur throughout this larger system. In this talk, Dr. Peters will address the fundamental concepts of food systems and food security. He will explain how scientists estimate climate emissions from individual supply chains and from whole food systems. He will also consider case study examples of strategies for reducing emissions viewed both from the production and consumer ends of the food system.
Climate Change Vulnerability New Habitat Assessments
Research also assessed the climate change vulnerability of three habitats characteristic of the Appalachian LCC region: the South-Central Interior Small Stream and Riparian Habitat; Central Interior Highlands Calcareous Glade and Barrens; and Southern Interior Low Plateau Dry Mesic Oak Forest.
Climate Change Vulnerability Previous Habitat Assessments
Research compiled the results of habitat assessments from five previous research projects. These include two projects in the Central Appalachian and Cumberland - Southern Appalachian portion of the LCC; habitat assessments completed in the North Carolina portion of the Cumberland - Southern Appalachian subregion; habitat assessments in the northeastern portion of the Central Appalachian subregion; and a draft assessment for a habitat in the Interior Low Plateau.
Climate Change Vulnerability Previous Species Assessments
The research compiled a compilation of 700 species vulnerability assessments from previous research. Each excel file contains a subset of data from a compilation of scores for these species in the Appalachian LCC.
Introduction to the Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment Research Project
Climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies are dependent on the best available projections of how climate will change and impact a region’s natural and cultural resources. Understanding the vulnerability of various species and habitats within the Appalachian LCC to climate change is of critical importance. Identifying the most appropriate steps to acquire climate vulnerability information and then using this information to inform adaptation and mitigation strategies is a major research priority of the LCC.
Yellowstone to Yukon: Indigenous Leadership in Conservation
Join the Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center - Global Change Fellows for a Global Change Seminar: “Yellowstone to Yukon: Indigenous Leadership in Conservation“
Technical Mitigation Options in Forests
Dr. Richard A. Birdsey, a Senior Scientist with the Woodwell Climate Research Center, discusses the forest carbon cycle, the role of U.S. forests in mitigating climate change and helping the U.S. meet its 2050 net zero greenhouse gas emissions goal, and how conditions in the future may impact this critical carbon sink.
Greenhouse Gases in Agriculture and Forests
Dr. Grant Domke and Dr. Charles W. Rice discuss trends in GHG emissions over time, U.S. land sector GHG emissions and removals, the GHG emission intensity of agricultural commodities, and opportunities to reduce emissions and enhance soil carbon sequestration.
Climate Extremes in Agriculture and Forests
Atmospheric CO2 in the atmosphere is now likely higher than at any point in the last two million years. The effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 are interconnected, leading to changes in extremes in both weather and climate. USGS's Dr. Adam Terando discusses the consequences of changes in temperature, precipitation and drought to U.S. agriculture and forests, and approaches to adaptation.
Climate Effects and Adaption in Forests
Dr. Christopher J. Fettig, Dr. Maria K. Janowiak, and Dr. Jessica E. Halofsky discuss how climate change driven increases in temperature and variation in precipitation are impacting U.S. forests and the wide range of ecosystem services they provide, sharing opportunities to proactively address risks to forests, and providing concrete examples of adaptation strategies and tactics that can be leveraged by the federal government and private landowners.
Climate Effects on U.S. Agriculture and Forests
Climate change effects are already evident in U.S. forests and agroecosystems. We are on the cusp of additional and potentially more severe effects, primarily facilitated by increased frequency and magnitude of extreme weather events (drought, heavy rainfall, heat waves) and associated disturbances (wildfires, insect outbreaks).
Climate Change 101: The Foundational Science
Dr. Keith Dixon (NOAA) is an award winning science communicator with more than 30 years of experience as a research meteorologist and climate modeler. In the inaugural video of the climate seminar series, Dr. Dixon discusses what is known about our planet's changing climate, how that knowledge is developed, and how certain we are that humans are responsible for the change we are observing.
Webinar: Working with Landowners to Build Resilience Across the Landscape
This session identified strategies to connect with landowners.
Webinar: Restoration on Private Lands Pt. 2 – Implementation, Biological Control Options, and Restoring for Birds
Part two of this webinar series includes extended Q&A geared towards restoration on private lands.
Webinar: Restoration on Private Lands Pt. 1 – Restoration Planning, Weed Control, and Recommended Herbicides
This two-part webinar series includes extended Q&A geared towards restoration on private lands.
Webinar: Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians collaborative research and management of culturally important forest products
This webinar introduces a program on co-produced research and action to manage forests for culturally important plants within portions of traditional Cherokee homelands. Registration is required to viewnon-demand.
Taking Action to Resist, Accept, or Direct Change: How Wildlife Managers Can Thrive in an Uncertain Future (Webinar)
The mission of the USFWS is to conserve fish, wildlife and their habitats. But how can wildlife managers proceed when faced with biodiversity declines, extinction crises, and accelerating climate change where traditional approaches may no longer be effective?
Webinar: From data to decision: Pathways for salt marsh conservation and restoration
Learn about conservation and restoration activities led by the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary that highlight the interactive nature of monitoring, tool development, and interventions to inform goal-based site management.
SE FireMap Phase II: Developing the Decision Support System Webinar
A free and open webinar for practitioners and the public to learn about the Southeast (SE) FireMap and next steps in its development as an operational decision-support tool for resource managers. In this next phase, the SE FireMap aims to provide up-to-date information to support fire management and conservation efforts. Representatives from USDA-NRCS, Tall Timbers Research, and USGS lead the webinar.
10,000th Hellbender Released Into the Wild
HELLBENDER HISTORY -- the 10,000th hellbender was recently released into an Ozark river in an effort to support a declining population for the endangered species. The Saint Louis Zoo, MDC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have partnered together for nearly 20 years during this effort. Learn more in this short video.
Incorporating the Benefits of Natural and Working Lands in Conservation Planning
Katie Warnell, Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions at Duke University, gave this seminar March 22, 2022, as part of our Spring virtual science seminar series highlighting SE CASC funded projects supporting resource management actions across the Southeast.
WLFW Northern bobwhite, Grasslands, and Savannas Framework - Partners’ webinar 3/2/2022
On March 2, 2022 Bridgett Costanzo of NRCS's Working Lands for Wildlife and Jessica McGuire of QF presented on the WLFW framework for NOBO, grasslands and savannas. Ms. Costanzo presented on the content of the new framework document, the priority areas and conservation practice goals set by the 24 NRCS state offices, and responses received from the needs assessment survey. Ms. McGuire presented on staffing and monitoring plans associated with launching this framework.
Northern Bobwhites and Fire: A Perfect Match
Prescribed fire, bobwhite ecology, and local site conditions need to be aligned for optimal bobwhite population response. This course discusses the context of fire frequency, scale, and seasonality for bobwhite management and restoration.
Stakeholder Webinar: Understanding the Human Dimensions of Private Lands Conservation and Management
Series of speakers on human dimensions of working with private landowners to effect conservation.
Northern Bobwhite Grasslands and Savannas Framework
Presented by Bridgett Costanzo, NRCS Working Lands for Wildlife regional coordinator.
Biological Indicators of Soil Health
Participants in this webinar will learn about the biological importance related to soil health management. Advantages and limitations for a variety of biological soil health indicators will be discussed including how they are measured and may be interpreted.
Soil for Water
Learn more about NCAT’s Soil for Water project, working to capture and hold more water in the soil.
Living Soil Film
Our soils support 95 percent of all food production, and by 2060, our soils will be asked to give us as much food as we have consumed in the last 500 years. 60-minute documentary featuring innovative farmers and soil health experts from across the nation. The societal and environmental costs of soil loss and degradation in the U.S. are now estimated to be as high as $85 billion every single year. It’s time we changed everything we thought we knew about soil.
The Habitat Matrix - Stepping Down Bird Management From Landscape to Stand
Part 5 of a 12-part monthly lecture series, Forests for the Birds: Conserving America’s Forest Birds. July 20, 2021.
A Path Forward: Understanding and Restoring Degraded Forests A Working Lands for Wildlife Virtual Event
The impact of high-grading on forest wildlife in the Eastern deciduous forests.
Working With Farmers and Landowners in NY to Restore Bog Turtle Habitat Powerpoint Presentation
Approximately 15 minute presentation on conducting bog turtle habitat conservation through Farm Bill programs on private lands, and how to work with private landowners. Presented by Elizabeth Marks of NRCS, an Area Biologist in upstate NY who has extensive experience with this topic.
Webinar- Course on Native Warm-Season Grass Forages and Grazing Management for Bobwhites
DEC 1-2, 2021. This webinar covers native warm-season grass forages in the eastern U.S. and integrating grazing management for Northern Bobwhites. The webinar was targeted at technical advisors who develop grazing management plans with landowners. This webinar was presented with the support of the Working Lands For Wildlife – Northern Bobwhite project. Key Topics: science-based information related to native warm-season grass forages, their attributes, proven establishment techniques, management guidelines, and integrating grazing management with bobwhites
Grazing Management Minute: Establishing Native Warm Season Grasses
In ODA's latest Grazing Management Minute, join Quail Forever's Jason Jones and Clinton County farmer Nathan Rice to learn more about establishing native warm season grasses.
Eastern redcedar burning tips
Landowners and forest managers are welcomed to learn about how to clear and Eastern redcedar and maintain their lands and forests with prescribed burns.
The Importance of Regular Prescribed Burning
Landowners and producers are welcomed to learn about the importance of regular prescribed burning. View property that was recently burned and how this treatment helps manage the land.
Managing Burns Safely
Tips for landowners and producers on how to burn their pasture safely and efficiently in the spring. Brought to you by John Weir at Oklahoma State University.
The benefits of prescribed burns in growing season
Fire Ecologist John Weir describes the benefits of prescribed burns during the livestock grass growing season.
The Benefits of Opening Forest Canopies
Learn about the benefits of creating open canopy in oak forested areas -- for livestock, aesthetics, and wildlife -- with Dwayne Elmore from the Oklahoma State University Extension.
The Value of Land
This video shares the stories of low-wealth heirs’ property owners in the South -- and how they are being served by The Center for Heirs' Property to protect rural, family-owned land.
No-Till Intensive Trainings
8-part webinar series with farmers, researchers, or other expert practitioners. The classes will discuss common obstacles to implementing a successful no-till program, address these issues through field proven technical knowledge, and follow a training plan that will best enable the TSP (technical service provider) to support the farmers in the no-till practice transition. This course is open to any service provider working with farmers in the Northeast! Upon course completion participants will receive a No-Till Intensive Training Certificate of Completion, as well as be eligible for 8 CCA credits and 1 Pesticide credit.
Winter Grazing - a Better Way to Feed
In this video, three livestock producers describe how extending the grazing season with winter grasses has saved them time and money, while also improving the environment; and they demonstrate the methods they used to achieve these savings. Sponsored by the NRCS - East National Technology Support Center.
Introduction to LANDFIRE video series
Through a short series of videos, learn about LANDFIRE: a shared program between federal wildland fire management programs that provides landscape scale geospatial products to support cross-boundary planning, management, and operations. Use LF data for landscape assessment, modeling, analysis, and more.
The Long View: Sustaining Our Oak Forests
This working lands webinar will educate landowners and natural resource professionals on working lands conservation programs intended to benefit wildlife species and promote oak forest diversity. In this webinar, we will take the “Long View” by looking back in time to gain historical grounding that will help us look forward and consider how our actions today can ensure we restore and sustain oak forests into the future. This webinar has been approved for continuing education credits. Hosted by the Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society and the NRCS Working Lands for Wildlife program.
Reconnecting Cattle and Quail
Learn about the Working Lands for Wildlife program and work in Ohio between USDA-NRCS and local farmers and ranchers. Grazing cattle on warm season, native grasses is great for cattle as well as critical species like the Northern Bobwhite Quail. Video for landowners and cattle producers. Presented by Nick Schell (USDA-NRCS Ohio) and Dr. Pat Keyser (UT - Center for Native Grasslands Management) at the Ohio Forage and Grassland Council Conference in 2017.
Finding and Using Landowner Data - TELE Webinar
TELE (Tools for Engaging Landowners Effectively) shares insights on how practitioners can build upon and use landowner data to meet their needs and yours.
Planning Your Landowner Engagement Strategy to Reach Your Big Goals (Part II)
Part II of a webinar series hosted by TELE - Tools for Engaging Landowners Effectively
Planning Your Landowner Engagement Strategy to Reach Your Big Goals (Part I)
Part 1 of a webinar series from TELE - Tools for Engaging Landowners Effectively
Working Lands for Wildlife: In Pursuit of the Shifting Mosaic
Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society with Working Lands for Wildlife discuss forests, wildlife, and communities. This webinar described working lands conservation programs and how they can benefit landowners, wildlife species, and promote forest diversity. Meant for landowners and natural resource professionals.
Northern bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting, Feb 23rd-24th 2021 Webinar Presentation
Presentations from the 2021 WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas Partnership Meeting
Forest Management for Northern Bobwhite Quail
In this webinar, Steve Chapman, NBCI Forestry Coordinator, will discuss pine forest management opportunities and practices that can not only help to bring back the bobwhite but also can have an impact on slowing the decline of those numerous songbird, pollinator and other wildlife species.
Native Vegetation Investments Pay Conservation Dividends
Viewers will learn about native vegetation’s applicability to a myriad of conservation practices beyond wildlife uses through an exploration of the supporting scientific research applied throughout the tall grass prairie and southeastern grasslands regions. Topics covered will include soil conservation, water quality, air quality, soil health, forage, biomass and wildlife
Understory Herbicides for Bobwhites and Other Wildlife
Herbicides are an important tool in both forest and wildlife management in the south and particularly in southern pine management. The common practice of heavy chemical site prep prescriptions in forest management may not be appropriate in stands where restoration and wildlife habitat is the objective. The webinar will address herbicide uses in longleaf restoration with a focus on minimizing the impact herbicides have on a healthy and diverse groundcover, including the fine fuels and plants that are beneficial to bobwhite quail, whitetail deer and the wild turkey.
Maintaining Quail and Grassland Bird Habitat in the Agricultural Landscape
Northern bobwhite quail and many other grassland bird species have experienced significant population declines over the last several decades. Loss of native grassland habitat is one of the primary causes of these declines. The CP33 – Habitat Buffers for Upland Birds is a Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) practice that provides nesting and brooding habitat for quail and other grassland birds on less productive cropland field margins. The CP33 buffer practice can help maintain important native grassland habitat within an agricultural landscape. This webinar will discuss the CP33 practice requirements, their importance on the landscape and how best to establish, manage, and maintain the habitat quality for quail and grassland birds.
Managing Oak Forests for Northern Bobwhite Quail
The southeastern United States has millions of acres of oak dominated forests that have a closed canopy with limited herbaceous and shrub understory that northern bobwhite require. However, research has demonstrated that with adequate overstory thinning, and the use of frequent prescribed fire, these forests can support populations of Northern Bobwhite Quail, presenting perhaps the best opportunity for large-scale quail restoration in the region. Participants in the webinar will learn about managing oak forests and restoration efforts related to northern bobwhite quail.
Tractors and accidents
From seasonal discing to cutting fire breaks to planting or spraying, a tractor is a staple in bobwhite habitat management. Marion Barnes talks about how to keep this big piece of metal from injuring you.
What exactly is the SC Bobwhite Initiative?
SCDNR biologist Breck Carmichael talks about the history of the SCBI, what it does and how it is working to bring back the whistle in South Carolina.
Cost Share Programs for landowners
Creating bobwhite habitat doesn't have to be expensive. SCDNR biologist Andy Krieg explains the ins and outs of a few cost share programs that are available to help you fund improvements on your property.
Supplemental planting for quail
Food plots can be helpful for bobwhites but only if they're done properly. Marion Barnes of Clemson Extension talks about what to plant, where to plant it and when to put it in the ground to get the most benefits.
Use of fire in quail management
Prescribed fire is the most useful tool in a quail manager's toolbox. SCDNR biologist Dan Peeples discusses the ins and outs of burning, how it benefits quail and other wildlife, and how you can learn to burn on your land.
Managing agricultural land for quail
Cropland used to be synonymous with bobwhite whistles in South Carolina. As Ted Rainwater, Quail Forever Farm Bill Biologist, explains, there a many things a landowner can do to modern agriculture to make it more quail-friendly.
Forest Management for bobwhites
Trees play an important role in the well-being of bobwhites. Michael Hook of the SCDNR talks about how to manage forested land for both bobwhites and dollars.
Bobwhite history and biology
Dr. Cory Heaton of Clemson University talks about bobwhite biology and history with a focus on habitat requirements. If you think the bobwhite decline is due to something other than habitat, watch this video.
Video: Welcome to the Landscape Partnership
A video introduction to the Landscape Partnership Portal
Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) Workspaces
The Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) program develops win-win approaches with producers and private landowners. WLFW partners understand that collaboration is critical to enhance wildlife habitat and improve agriculture and forest productivity. We can continue to strengthen collaboration -- especially between technical experts from federal and state agencies and non-government partner staff -- through the WLFW workspaces. The WLFW workspaces provide online infrastructure and space for partners to share their expertise with one another, exchange resources and ideas, and plan work together on a certain species, a given habitat or land use, or a specific project. A subset of the resources here are available to producers, landowners, and communities who are interested in, or involved with, the WLFW program.
Video: Intro to the Landscape Partnership Workspaces
The Landscape Partnership workspaces provide online infrastructure and space for partners to share their expertise with one another, exchange resources and ideas, and plan work together on a certain species, a given habitat, or a specific project. Workspaces make it easier for partners to share expertise with one another. Any file type or file size can be shared and organized here online -- such as scientific studies, spatial data, images, podcasts, training modules, surveys, links, and videos.
Woods for Wildlife: Native Plants of the Longleaf Pine Forest and Active Management of Early Successional Plant Communities
Learn about the high diversity of plant species in the longleaf pine ecosystem and how to actively manage land to preserve this diversity. The presenters discuss how to maximize wildlife management goals through active management of early successional plant communities. Commonly referred to as early successional habitat, these plant communities benefit a vast array of wildlife species including the northern bobwhite quail, monarch butterfly, and red-cockaded woodpecker.
Virtual tour: Native Warm Season Grass Grazing
Join a tour of pasture lands that use native warm season grasses to provide good grazing for livestock and invaluable habitat, food, and shelter for native wildlife. The video highlights the benefits of different native grasses and how quickly these grasses can benefit working lands. Developed and provided by Ohio NRCS, Ohio State University Extension, the Madison Soil and Water Conservation District, and Quail/Pheasants Forever. Released September 2020.
Native Grass College: Video series
The Native Grass College offers short videos and resources for practitioner and landowners to learn how to 1) Establish Native Grasses, 2) Control Grass Competition, and 3) Manage grazing. Native grasses are better for grazing and for wildlife. Developed by Dr. Pat Keyser, Center for Native Grasslands Management at the University of Tennessee.
Producer Adoption of Native Grass Forages
Pat Keyser (Center for Native Grasslands, University of Tennessee) describes opportunities for practitioners to better partner with livestock producers to adopt native grass forages and advance working lands conservation. What is good for the cows is good for native species too. This webinar was presented as part of the Mississippi Flyway Summit in September 2020.
Landscape-scale Conservation Planning
A basic overview of the principles and methods for the Appalachian Landscape Conservation Cooperative, including a discussion on the major goals of landscape conservation.
Pine health issues in the southeastern U.S.
Several biotic and abiotic stressors, including insects, pathogens, and weather, can impact pine growth in the Southeast. Dr. David Coyle (Clemson University) will provide a general overview of identification, impact, and management strategies for pine health in the region.
The 5 Principles of Soil Health
Presented by Tony Richards, a conservation planner in Tremonton, UT.
Voices of African American Forestry
This short video captures the insights and reflections on past and present issues as well as the future aspirations for African American forestry and land retention. Featuring interviews with African American forest owners in the Southeastern Black Belt who are part of the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Network (SFLR).
America's Forests in South Carolina - Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Network
This episode of America's Forests with Chuck Leavell in South Carolina features African American landowners and foresters and The Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Network, a program of the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities.
Forest Innovation Reviews (FIRz) - 2019
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities hosts the Forest Innovation Reviews to share innovative ideas about forests, forest management, forest products, and forest-rich communities. Features short TED-talk like presentations on topics like blockchain for illegal logging and creating a new wood to replace plastic.
Paul Hessburg: Why Wildfires Have Gotten Worse-and What We Can Do About It
Megafires, individual fires that burn more than 100,000 acres, are on the rise in the western United States -- the direct result of unintentional yet massive changes we've brought to the forests through a century of misguided management. What steps can we take to avoid further destruction? Forest ecologist Paul Hessburg confronts some tough truths about wildfires and details how we can help restore the natural balance of the landscape.
Northern Bobwhites and Fire: A Perfect Match
Prescribed fire, bobwhite ecology, and local site conditions need to be aligned for optimal bobwhite population response. This course discusses the context of fire frequency, scale, and seasonality for bobwhite management and restoration.
Prescribed burning in wooded areas
John Weir from the Oklahoma State University explains the value of prescribed burning in oak forests -- and describes the differences in burning needs that exist between Eastern and Western Oklahoma.
SFE Lessons Learned from Learn-n-Burn Events
"Learn and Burn" workshops are an excellent way for private landowners and others to gain hands-on burning experience and knowledge from expert mentors. This webinar will provide some lessons learned from coordinating these events, and tips to putting one on in the future. Participants will be provided with a template checklist, examples of past agendas, ideas for potential partners and funding opportunities, suggestions on how to measure program impact, and successes from past events.
Timber Management and Prescribed Fire
Joe Marschall (Oak Woodlands and Forests Fire Science Consortium) moderates a panel of fire professionals and timber management specialists to discuss results from research and personal experience of combining prescribed fire with timber management.
Fire and a Changing Climate - Fueling Collaboration
Webinar from the Fueling Collaboration Series. Jenifer Bunty (Consortium of Appalachian Fire Managers & Scientists/Clemson University) moderates a panel of fire professionals and climate change specialists. They discuss how to incorporate climate change predictions/models into forest and fire management and give updates on the latest fire science and climate change research.
Fire in Wetlands: Fire Ecology and Prescribed Fire Tactics
The following webinar provides insight on prescribed fire tactics in wetland ecosystems. Developed by the Southern Fire Exchange, the Ocala National Forest and the University of Florida.
SFE Webinar: Introduction to the SE FireMap 1.0 - A New Tool to Map Fires Across the South
The SE FireMap 1.0 is a new fire mapping system for the Southeastern United States. Developed with funding provided by the USDA NRCS, SE FireMap uses a remote sensing-based approach to track both prescribed fire and wildfire activity on public and private lands across the range of the longleaf pine.
How To Use The LP Expertise Search
This video will introduce you to the Landscape Partnership Expertise Directory. The Expertise Directory is a searchable database that simplifies the process of identifying collaborators for research, funding, and projects. It provides users with access to nonprofit leaders, scientists, academics, conservation agency staff, farmers, and landowners. In this tutorial, you will learn how to: create your profile to showcase your own expertise, use the Profile and Map Search to find contacts for your projects, and export a spreadsheet of your search results.
Lucas Furman: The Longleaf Alliance & SE Fire Map
Lucas Furman is the GIS Coordinator at the Longleaf Alliance; in this role he also serves as a project liaison for the Southeast Fire Map. He shares about the importance of collaboration across stakeholder groups to develop good planning tools and serve all actors in a landscape.
Carol Denhof: The Longleaf Alliance
Carol Denhof, President of the Longleaf Alliance, discusses landscape-level conservation of longleaf pine ecosystems across the Southeast and the role of collaboration between the Alliance, landowners/farmers, NRCS, and others.
Addie Thornton: Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability
Addie Thornton, Project Manager of the Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS), discusses how diverse stakeholders from the military and conservation space can learn from one another and work together to achieve meaningful outcomes at a landscape level.
Peter Stangel: U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities
Peter Stangel, Chief Operating Officer of the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities, discusses the importance of landscape-level conservation and partnerships as well as his vision for future collaboration.
More Quail Per Bale: Precision Conservation for a More Sustainable Future
How farming and quail management can be compatible on working lands.
Regenerative Agriculture: No-Till Farming
Gabe Brown, legendary Rancher from Bismarck, North Dakota, discusses how Regenerative Agriculture is a solution to local and global challenges.
Native plants and bobwhites
Why are native plants so vital to bobwhites? TJ Savereno of Clemson Extension answers this question and gives a solid introduction to each type of plant and where its value lies. He also covers the proper mix of each type for your property.
Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW): Northern bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting, Feb 23rd-24th 2021
Presentations from the 2021 WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas Partnership Meeting
Q&A Session: Bridgett Costanzo, Dr. Jessica McGuire & Dr. James Martin
Question & Answer session at the end of the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas Partnership Meeting. February 24th, 2021.
Perspectives & Tips on Field Delivery of WLFW-NOBO: Dr. Jessica McGuire
Dr. Jessica McGuire presenting at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grassland and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 24th, 2021. Jessica is the Quail Forever National Coordinator for WLFW NOBO.
Northern Bobwhite Trends and Landscape Needs: Dr. James Martin
Dr. James Martin speaking at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 24, 2021. James is an Associate Professor at the University of Georgia.
Progress, Goal-Setting Spreadsheet, & Next Steps: Bridgett Costanzo
Bridgett Costanzo presenting at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 24, 2021. Bridgett is the Regional Coordinator for WLFW, NRCS
Forest Certification and Quail Conservation: What’s the Intersection?: Paul Trianosky
Paul Trianosky speaking at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 23, 2021. Paul is the Chief Conservation Officer at Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
Partnerships Help Profitability, Sustainability in Cotton Farming: Dr. Jesse Daystar
Dr. Jesse Daystar speaks at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 23, 2021. Jesse is the Chief Sustainability Officer at Cotton Incorporated.
Partnerships in Conservation: Linking economics and wildlife habitat in on-farm program delivery: Kira Everhart-Valentine
Kira Everhart-Valentine speaking at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas Partnership Meeting. February 23, 2021. Kira is the Sustainability Director of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program.
WLFW Field Perspective: J.B. Daniel
J.B. Daniel presenting at the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 23, 2021. J.B. is a grazing specialist with NRCS.
The Economics of Grazing Native Warm Season Grasses: Dr. Pat Keyser
Dr. Pat Keyser speaking at the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW): Northern bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. Feb 23, 2021. Pat is a professor and the Director of the Center for Native Grassland Management at the University of Tennessee.
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever: The Habitat Organization: Ryan Heiniger
Ryan Heiniger speaking about precision agriculture at the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW): Northern bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting. February 23, 2021. Ryan is the Director of Agriculture and Conservation Innovation at Pheasant Forever/Quail Forever.
Precision Agriculture and Conservation Opportunities: Dr. Mark McConnell
Dr. Mark McConnell presenting at the Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW): Northern bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting on February 23, 2021. Mark is an Assistant Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Management at Mississippi State University.
History and Trends in Native Grasslands & Savannas of the Midwest and East
Dwayne Estes' opening talk for the WLFW Northern Bobwhite, Grasslands and Savannas National Partnership Meeting February 23-24th. Dr. Dwayne Estes is an Associate Professor at Austin Peay State University and is the Executive Director of the Southeastern Grasslands Initiative
Planting Native Grasses: Missouri Forage and Livestock Series
Pat Keyser (University of Tennessee) and Rick Rath (Missouri Department of Conservation) share about establishing and managing native grasses on pasture lands. Native grasses benefit not only livestock, but wildlife too. This webinar can help practitioners and landowners alike. Filmed January 20, 2021 - Missouri Forage and Livestock Series
Beef, Grass, and Bobwhites w/ Jef Hodges
Day 2, Session 2. Native Warm-Season Grasses Webinar with Dr. Pat Keyser and Jef Hodges. Presented December 2, 2021.
NWSG Forage Management Made Easy w/ Dr. Pat Keyser
Day 2, Session 1. Native Warm-Season Grasses Webinar with Dr. Pat Keyser and Jef Hodges. Presented December 2, 2021.
Establishing Native Grass Forages:A Brief Overview w/ Dr. Pat Keyser
Day 1, Session 2. Native Warm-Season Grasses Webinar with Dr. Pat Keyser and Jef Hodges. Presented December 1, 2021.
Business Case for NWSG Forages w/ Dr. Pat Keyser
Day 1, Session 1. Native Warm-Season Grasses Webinar with Dr. Pat Keyser and Jef Hodges. Presented December 1, 2021.
AMJV Timber Harvest Virtual Tours
These 360° Virtual Tour videos from Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture partners show different timber harvest techniques and their outcomes. Simply click and drag within the video to look around as you learn about different management techniques such as shelterwood harvests, overstory removals, and midstory removals that benefit many wildlife species including the Golden-winged Warbler. Includes 5 total videos.
Golden-winged Warbler Ecology and Guidelines for Creating Breeding Habitat Presentation
Presented by Jeff Larkin, Ph.D., Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and Marja Bakermans, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher, Indiana University of Pennsylvania The Golden-winged Warbler is a neo-tropical migrant that breeds in early successional habitats of North America. This imperiled songbird has experienced a 90%+ population decline in the Appalachian region over the past 50 years. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is currently considering listing this species under the Endangered Species Act. The recent completion of a study in portions of Pennsylvania and Maryland provided the foundation of a Golden-winged Warbler Forestland BMP publication. These BMP's have potential for implementation through Farm Bill programs on private lands. Learn more by viewing this webinar. The opinions expressed in this video are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of USDA.
Introducing Habitat Restoration for Black Duck
An intro video for landowners, farmers, and others to learn about ways to increase habitat for the American Black Duck in partnership with NRCS and the Delaware Conservation Partnership
Video: Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) Workspaces
The Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) program develops win-win approaches with producers and private landowners. WLFW partners understand that collaboration is critical to enhance wildlife habitat and improve agriculture and forest productivity. We can continue to strengthen collaboration -- especially between technical experts from federal and state agencies and non-government partner staff -- through the WLFW workspaces. The WLFW workspaces provide online infrastructure and space for partners to share their expertise with one another, exchange resources and ideas, and plan work together on a certain species, a given habitat or land use, or a specific project. A subset of the resources here are available to producers, landowners, and communities who are interested in, or involved with, the WLFW program.
Conservation Innovation Grants: Successful Grazing Lands - Innovation to Implementation
Join pasture specialists, local graziers, and NRCS staff to discuss the Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) on Grazing Lands and the benefits of establishing and grazing native warm season grasses for livestock and ground nesting wildlife. See how NRCS is helping more farmers establish and utilize good grazing techniques on their farms. Featuring Dr. Pat Keyser (Center for Native Grasslands Management), J.B. Daniel (NRCS Virginia), and Keith Tuck (Virginia Grazier).
Forage for Beef and Bobs
Learn about the benefits of native grasses for beef cattle production and wildlife in Virginia. This short video (4 min) is especially relevant for beef producers and farmers. Brought to you NRCS Virginia.
Partnerships on Working Lands
Across the West, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is working with ranchers, federal and state partners, and other non-profit organizations to support conservation on working lands.
Forest biodiversity and Human communities in Honduras
Webinar on Forest biodiversity and Human communities in Honduras presented by David King on July 24, 2020.
Igniting Inspiration for Women in Fire
If our use of fire for managing lands is to improve and expand in the United States, it will need to involve more women and diverse perspectives. Thanks to programs like Women-in-Fire Prescribed Fire Training Exchanges (WTREX), more women are participating in and leading controlled burns.
Fighting Fire with Fire: Can Fire Positively Impact an Ecosystem?
Wildfires occur naturally when lightning strikes a forest or grassland. Alternatively, controlled burns, also known as prescribed fires, are set by land managers and conservationists to mimic the effects of natural fires.
Introducing Burner Bob - A Cool Dude with a Hot Message!
Burner Bob - A Cool Dude with a Hot Message!
Learn All About Hellbenders and Take a Tour
Do you know what a hellbender is or where they can be found? This live session will answer those questions for you, show you what they look like by taking you on a virtual tour, share where they live, what they like to eat and who their predators are.
Appalachian LCC Integrating Cultural Resources Research Webinar
Presentation by Dr. Tim Murtha of Penn State University on a collaborative research project sponsored by the National Park Service and the Appalachian LCC, which seeks to integrate cultural resources, such as historic bridges and Civil War Battlefields, into landscape conservation planning and design to emphasize both natural and cultural resources in defining conservation priorities.
“One Stick at a Time” in pursuit of climate adaptations for a more sustainable future
This film follows land managers in the Methow Valley, Washington for over a year, from forests to rivers, from fires to snowfall, from beaver capture to release as they try to come to grips with the impacts of climate change and the possible adaptation options right in front of them. It is a conversation starter for answering the question "What can I do?" With support from the best climate experts in the Northwest, it is a chance for each of us to think about what our landscapes will be like ten decades from now. It is a nudge to start today to make our surroundings better than they would be if we did nothing. The film was conceived as part of the 10 Decades Project, the goal of which is to inspire thousands of us to take measurable, concrete steps for climate adaptation in every area for which we are responsible.
Esri Web Services and PAD-US
Rich Nauman of Esri presents on how Esri web services have been applied to PAD-US data, creating many options for using PAD-US in web applications and on desktop GIS systems. Approximately 15 minutes.
The Adaptation Workbook - Building Your Climate Adaptation Plan
A collaboration between the Climate Learning Network and the Climate Science Initiative, this webinar provides an overview of the Adaptation Workbook, an online, interactive, and practical workbook that helps land managers develop their own custom built climate change adaptation plans (www.adaptationworkbook.org).
The eDNAtlas and Archive for aquatic taxa in Western North America
The ease, efficiency, and sensitivity of environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling of species in aquatic environments is leading to an explosion in its use across North America.
"Cold Water and Hardtack" Episode 308 | Tennessee Uncharted
Host Erick Baker and the Tennessee Uncharted crew take us on an adventure that looks to the future of water health and species diversity in Tennessee and pays tribute to the past in a Civil War reenactment.
We take care of our Natural Resources in Haywood County NC
Our locals and visitors alike take pride in the quality of the water here in Haywood County NC. The agriculture, flora/fauna, wildlife, breweries and more all rely on the quality of our water. Haywood County holds something very precious and rare - water that comes directly from our mountains and nowhere else. We are the only county east of the Mississippi River with headwaters that originate within our county lines. The activity of our community impacts other regions downstream and as award winning author Wendell Berry once said, “Do unto those downstream as you would have those upstream do unto you.” I feel it is our responsibility and duty to safeguard our waterways.
"Riparian" Episode 309 | Tennessee Uncharted
With 2016’s devastating wildfires and learning about riparian zones feeding Tennessee’s waterways, host Erick Baker discovers that sometimes it takes science to restore faith in our ability to take care of our fair state.
Haywood Waterways Kids in the Creek
Kids in the Creek was created by the Tennessee Valley Authority and brought to Haywood County in 1997. The purpose is to expose 8th grade students to hands-on activities that raise awareness of the importance of clean water and the issues that could degrade water quality. The students rotate among four stations: the EnviroScape watershed model, water chemistry, fish, and benthic macroinvertebrates. At the fish station, the students collect data for a classroom exercise that ties everything together.
Haywood Waterways Watershed Restoration 2015
A look into restoration efforts in Haywood County, NC from the Haywood Waterways Association.
Saving Southern Appalachian Brook Trout
The Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute (TNACI) is working with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and other partners to save wild populations of Southern Appalachian Brook Trout. This species is Tennessee's only native trout species.
TN Wild Side - Green Salamander
The Wild Side of Tennessee is full of little creatures that blend into their surroundings, unseen by most. Yet they play very important roles in keeping the balance of nature just right. In this case, we're talking about the green salamander, an animal that makes its home in just a few select places. High on the Cumberland Plateau, deep in the woods, nestled back in the narrow cracks of ages-old rock outcrops is where you'll find this tiny creature. While the green salamander is known for its shyness, Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs shows us how one biology student is discovering just how fascinating it really is.
TN Wild Side - Conservation Fisheries...Saving Our Fish
Over the years we've encountered some very special people and organizations dedicated to preserving the Wild Side of our great state. All have the common goal of ensuring a more certain future for wildlife and their habitat. That's why we like to tell you about the good work being done by groups like Conservation Fisheries Incorporated. C-F-I is dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of our rivers and streams, often working to save small fish eliminated or badly harmed by pollution or habitat destruction. Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs tells the story of Pat Rakes and J.R. Shute, two University of Tennessee students who took their passion for our natural waters to a new level, in the process creating a better world for us all.
TN Wild Side - Hiwassee Land Preservation
These days, there are a lot more people trying to live on the same amount of land. That's certainly the case here in Tennessee, where our population is growing faster than the national average. Right now over 6 million people live in our state, a number expected to grow to over 7 million within the next 15 years. Which means the struggle to balance development and preservation is only going to get harder. That's why it's becoming even more important that all of us get involved in helping protect biologically, historically, and visually significant parts of our state. Wild Side Guide Craig Owensby takes us to one such place along the Tennessee River north of Chattanooga, where the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, The Land Trust for Tennessee, and community volunteers worked together to protect a Tennessee treasure.
TN Wild Side - Sequatchie Caddisfly
Anglers refer to it as "stick bait," most people don't see it, and biologists believe its future is very uncertain. The Sequatchie Caddisfly is one of those small, amazing animals that might be an afterthought to many. In truth, it plays a critical role in the ongoing health of the entire Sequatchie Valley, one of Tennessee's most beautiful natural areas. As humans have intruded into its world, the Sequatchie Caddisfly has lost most of its population and living area. Today, it's confined to a small corner of its original habitat. That's where we find Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs exploring the unusual relationship of a cave, a spring, and a tiny animal that lives there.
TN Wild Side - Brook Trout Restoration
The Southern Appalachian Brook Trout is small... so small in fact that a trophy fish is only nine inches long. This beautiful fish, vibrant with shimmery, bright colors is considered a prize catch, largely because the brook trout is a rare and elusive resident of Tennessee waters. It's the only trout native to our state and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and others are trying to make sure it doesn't disappear. Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs takes us to the Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains, where some young brook trout are returning home after nearly being wiped out in their mountain habitat.
TN Wild Side - The Pristine Crayfish
The clear streams and thick forests of Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau are home to some of the most unique and diverse wildlife in North America. It's also home to an eighty-year old state park that still attracts a million visitors a year… Fall Creek Falls. Everyone knows about the beauty of the falls, but just as interesting is the animal kingdom found beneath the waters in and near the park… including a rare and elusive crayfish with a colorful name. The Pristine Crayfish might be shy and reclusive but it helps hold the entire Plateau ecosystem together. Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs shows us how researchers are using the crayfish today to plan for tomorrow.
TN Wild Side - Valley Flame Crayfish
It’s believed more species of this little critter are found in Tennessee than any other state. While most of them live in our numerous streams and rivers, some are more at home away from those areas, in moist lands near water…even underground. That’s one reason why the crayfish is such an interesting, unique, and beautiful animal. Crayfish diversity brings researchers here from all over the world to study their habitat and life habits. But Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs found two men who don't have to travel far to follow their lives’ passion, learning as much as they can about crayfish while getting shoulder deep in mud and muck.
TN Wild Side - Salamander Survey
They're slithery and slimy and so shy we rarely see them. But to those who know about them they are beautiful sights. That's because salamanders are an indicator of just how healthy their home is. Since their home is the woods and water, that's just about everywhere. In this case, we mean the Bear Hollow Mountain Wildlife Management Area in Franklin County. That's where you'll find Barking Frog Swamp, some hard-working Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency biologists, a slew of salamanders, and Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs, all trying to learn more about these often overlooked creatures.
TN Wild Side - Buffalo Run
We've all seen the pictures and heard the thrilling stories of the great buffalo stampedes of the old West. Those involved the massive, furry, four-legged critters that once dominated the Great Plains. But the Buffalo we're talking about today swim in Tellico Reservoir except for a few days in early April each year. That's when thousands of buffalo fish make their spawning runs into nearby Citico Creek. The dark-colored fish quickly turn the creek into a frenzy of splashing water. The fishing's not bad either, as Wild Side Guide Alan Griggs shows us.
TN Wild Side - Duck River Cleanup
The Duck River is one of the most beautiful and aquatically diverse streams in North America. As it meanders through Middle Tennessee it's used for fishing, boating, and even as a source for drinking water. That's why it's important to keep the Duck clear of trash and natural debris. It's not easy. Uncaring people can easily pollute rivers like the Duck with discarded tires, old boats, and even a shopping cart or two. But thankfully there are volunteers like the ones we met near Columbia, Tennessee whose love for the river includes getting down and dirty. Wild Side Guide Janet Ivey tells us more.
Southern Salvelinus - Brook Trout Below the Mason-Dixon
Southern Appalachian Brook Trout are a geographically isolated strain of Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) that are facing a realistic possibility of disappearing. They are a valuable indicator species and the decline in brook trout populations is a reflection of the degradation of our beautiful streams. They are the only native trout (technically a char) to the Eastern United States. Because of the introduction of invasive Rainbow Trout (from the Western US) through state fish stocking programs, they are being out competed and brook trout populations are being even further reduced. Video by BlueBlood.
Fishy Fragments
These clips are a short snapshot into the many hours of footage captured below the rivers. A longer documentary will be compiled in 2016 including brook trout, stone nest building, colorful darters, and many other interesting species and behaviors. Video by Eric Malone.
Rivers - More Than Skin Deep
This is a collection of some clips from the National Park Service of some of some of the fish species observed and filmed while snorkeling in several rivers in Southern Appalachia. The diversity that can be found below the surface of these rivers and others throughout North America is unreal. A fish species list is included at the end. Get below the surface and see what you're missing! Video by BlueBlood.
N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s Whirling Disease Response Plan
On July 27, 2015, whirling disease was confirmed in rainbow trout collected from Watauga River in Watauga County– the first occurrence of the disease in North Carolina. Whirling disease affects fish in the trout and salmon family with rainbow and brook trout, two species found in North Carolina waters, being the most susceptible. The disease, caused by the microscopic parasite Myxobolus cerebralis, damages cartilage and skeletal tissue in trout, causing them to swim in a whirling motion.
Coldwater Research Career Connection: North Carolina Triploid Trout Project
Recently, Coldwater Research Coordinator Jacob Rash with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission spoke with Christine Muth, a biology teacher with the N.C. School of Science and Math, to discuss about stocking triploid trout (sterile) into North Carolina's mountain trout waters. They also discussed careers in fisheries to share with students at the N.C. School of Science and Math. This video provides an overview of how and why the Commission produces these sterile fish. In addition, there is discussion about the field of fisheries science and how folks can become involved. Video by the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics.
Flexing Their Mussels - Restoration of the Cheoah River
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission's (NCWRC) mussel breeding program helps augment some declining populations and save others from extinction. There are about 17 places in the United States that grow freshwater mussels, but many of those are for research purposes. The Marion facility has held 17 of the approximately 50 species in North Carolina and has propagated seven species to bolster local populations throughout the state. Biologists Rachel Hoch, David Deaton and Peter Lamb are leading the effort in Marion with the help of the NCWRC's Aquatic Wildlife Diversity Program staff.
Partnering to Connect Citico Creek
Dam removal projects are best done in partnership and one of the best examples is the Upper Citico Creek dam removal project in Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest highlighted in our short film Connecting Citico Creek. American Rivers teamed up with two federal agencies, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife and the U.S. Forest Service, to achieve the common goal of restoring aquatic habitat. Each partner brought their expertise and resources to the table to produce an efficient, high quality, low cost victory in the Little Tennessee River watershed.
Spot fin Chub Spawning in Tellico River
For a little more than 10 years, Conservation Fisheries has been working to re-establish spotfin chub into the Tellico River in eastern Tennessee. These spectacular, turquoise minnows (only the males develop this color and only during summertime spawning), are highly specialized and closely associated with clean, current swept, bedrock habitats. During spawning season, the males become very territorial and stake out crevices in the rocks where the females will ultimately deposit the eggs. While males vigorously defend these territories, they do not provide any direct care to the eggs and larvae. The spotfin chub is federally threatened.
Citico Creek Buffalo Run
At this point, the buffalo, Ictiobus spp. (Probably mixed crowd!) along with some nice big silver redhorse, Moxostoma anisurum, were milling around the creek in pretty good numbers. No spawning events were seen and the schools appeared to be primarily males.... just waiting on the females to arrive! This spectacular event takes place in early April every year in Citico Creek and other numerous other streams in our area. Citico Creek is located on the Cherokee National Forest and is perhaps one of the nicest medium-sized streams in the southern Appalachians! Film by Conservation Fisheries Inc.
Snorkel Survey in the Tellico River, Cherokee National Forest
On August 15, 2013 Conservation Fisheries, Inc. snorkeled the Tellico River in search of some of the imperiled fishes they have been working to restore to this river. This was the first time they ventured out with a new GoPro Black Hero 3. This video captures great numbers of spotfin chubs, Erimonax monachus, Smoky madtoms, Noturus baileyi and Citico darters, Etheostoma sitikuense. Some of the male spotfin chubs were spectacular! Enjoy!
Floating the Conasauga or Just Another Day at the Office
No, all of our days are not this nice, but this one was a pretty good one! A beautiful July day, not too hot, clear blue sky and pretty good water conditions! The Conasauga is one of our favorite rivers to work! It originates in North Georgia, flows north into Tennessee, then flirts with the state line until finally turning back south into Georgia. Video by Conservation Fisheries Inc.
Happy Holidays from CFI
Just a short video from the Conservation Fisheries Inc. of some of the beautiful rivers and streams in this part of the world. You may recognize some of them! Happy Holidays from all of us at CFI.
Hidden Rivers - Preview
A short preview of Freshwaters Illustrated forthcoming film series on the vibrant yet little-known life of Southern Appalachian Rivers.
A Deeper Creek - The Watchable Waters of Appalachia
A virtual dive into some of North America's richest rivers, and a fun look at an innovative river snorkeling program that has brought thousands of citizen snorkelers to the vibrant waters of Southern Appalachia. Video by Freshwaters Illustrated.
The Last Dragons - Protecting Appalachia's Hellbenders
An intimate glimpse at North America's Eastern Hellbender, an ancient salamander that lives as much in myth as in reality.... and in many waters, myths are all that remain of these sentinel stream-dwellers. Video by Freshwaters Illustrated.
Bringing Back the Brooks - A Revival of the South’s Trout
Freshwater Illustrated and the U.S. Forest Service serve a poetic look at a forgotten native of Appalachia, the Southern Appalachian Brook Trout, which is being brought back from the brink… by hand, bucket, and hoof.
Your Drop Matters
Just forty-five years ago, rivers in the U.S. were so polluted that some actually burned. In response, our country created the Clean Water Act amid other strong environmental legislation. Today, two-thirds of our population has never known a time when clean water wasn’t readily available. Despite improvements in the quality of drinking water, freshwater animals and habitats in the southeastern U.S. remain among the most imperiled on Earth. We have become complacent with institutional protections and haven’t challenged our personal behaviors. How can we solve the freshwater crisis starting in our own backyard? Video by TEDxChattanooga.
Rescuing Barrens Topminnows During A Drought
Dr. Bernie Kuhajda in the field discussing the plight of the endangered Barrens Topminnow as an important population threatened by drought conditions. Video by the Tennessee Aquarium.
Drought Prompts Endangered Fish Rescue
The Tennessee Aquarium and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service launched a fish rescue on November 22. The historic drought conditions had reduced the number of locations where the federally endangered Laurel Dace are found. Most of the streams where these brightly colored fish are found have dried up, leaving only a few shallow pools. Only 18 Laurel Dace were recovered and brought back to the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute for an "ark population," in case this species disappears in the wild. Hopefully these 18 fish will reproduce in the spring allowing scientists an opportunity to bolster the diminishing populations of Laurel Dace in Tennessee.
Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute - Freshwater Biodiversity
The warm waters of the southeastern United States are home to an amazing diversity of animals and habitats. The Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute (TNACI) works to protect and sustain the region's natural treasures and bring people of all ages closer to nature. Help us celebrate and care for these riches in our backyards.
Mapping our Rivers in High Definition
A project video produced by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) for Trutta Consulting LLC High Definition Stream Survey (HDSS) of the Caney Fork River below Center Hill Dam. The project was supported by the Cumberland Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and TWRA. We also worked with TWRA fisheries sampling crew to video and GPS their trout surveys that were completed at the same time as the HDSS project. This allows us to see the conditions that the fish were captured and determine what areas of the river are best for trout at different flow conditions.
Sentinels
Monitoring the Little Rivers of the Tennessee Valley. Video by Freshwaters Illustrated in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Endangered Mussels Released into the Clinch River, Largest Release in Eastern US
Biologists from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF), and partners from Virginia Tech, the Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service stocked thousands of mussels into the Clinch River, Russell County. The Clinch River has more species of endangered freshwater mussels than any other river in North America. Elementary school students from Cleveland, VA, participated in the event, and learned about the many functions of mussels, including providing habitat for fish, becoming food for many other animals, and filtering and cleaning the water in our streams and rivers. Over 3,500 federally-endangered mussels were produced at the Department's Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Center in Marion, Virginia.
Managing Forests for Birds Video Series
A new video series by the Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative highlights the importance of proper forest management in improving a diversity of habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Tangible Landscape as a tool for modeling and science communication
In this webinar the Conservation Biology Institute introduce Tangible Landscape, a technology that links an interactive physical model with GRASS GIS through a real-time cycle of interaction, 3D scanning, geospatial computation, and 3D rendering.
Water Rights & Wetland Restoration Webinar
Will share key terminology and the principles behind the Prior Appropriations Doctrine, as well as variations in the laws and water administration in the Western United States.
Interactive Conservation Planning for the Appalachian LCC: Appalachian NatureScape
The outcome of the Appalachian LCC Conservation Planning & Design consultative process and modeling is a dynamic ‘Conservation Blueprint’ or 'Landscape Conservation Design' called NatureScape. This is a dynamic or living design envisioned as an ongoing consultation with the conservation community - continuously incorporating new information and datasets as well as engaging subject-matter experts and committed stakeholders.
LANDFIRE Data Applications for Research in Fire Ecology, Forest Mgmt in California
Brandon Collins presents the second in a series of webinars that LANDFIRE co-hosts with the California Fire Science Consortium. Collins is a USFS Research Forester based in Davis, CA, whose interests involve characterizing effects of fire and fuels treatments on forests at both the stand and landscape levels. He says, "My research intends to provide meaningful information to managers interested in improving forest resiliency and incorporating more natural fire-vegetation dynamics across landscapes."
Webinar on Wetland Restoration in Urban & Highly Disturbed Landscapes
The Association of State Wetland Managers (ASWM) is pleased to invite you to attend the next webinar in our popular Improving Wetland Restoration Success webinar series on “Wetland Restoration in Urban and Highly Disturbed Landscapes.”
Protecting the Tennessee River Gorge
A video documenting why the Tennessee River Gorge Trust's work is necessary.
Conserving Imperiled Aquatic Species in the UTRB
A team of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service scientists, with assistance from U.S. Geological Survey, have developed a collaborative conservation strategy examining cost-effective approaches for efforts to conserve and manage 36 imperiled freshwater fish and mussel species in the 22,360 square-mile Upper Tennessee River Basin.
Environmental Educator Broadcast: Landscape Conservation Cooperatives
On August 26th, Appalachian LCC Coordinator Jean Brennan, National LCC Coordinator Elsa Haubold, and National LCC Communication Coordinator Laura McClean participated in a live broadcast that provided an update on the work of Landscape Conservation Cooperatives (LCCs) to environmental educators.
Stream Impacts from Water Withdrawals in the Marcellus Shale Region
The Appalachian LCC provided a grant to Cornell University Environmental Engineers to study how the region’s surface freshwater supply – and the health of natural systems delivering this resource – have been impacted and may be altered in the coming years under increasing water withdrawals.
Assessing Vulnerability of Species and Habitats to Large-scale Impacts
New vulnerability assessments for 41 species and 3 habitats in the Appalachians are now available. The conservation community can view and search each of these assessments by vulnerability scores, conservation status ranks, state and subregion of assessment, and higher taxonomy. In addition, principle investigators NatureServe compiled the results of 700 species assessments previously completed by other researchers as well as assessments on several habitats.
Classification and Mapping of Cave and Karst Resources
Cave and karst systems are unique environments that occur throughout the Appalachians. They provide habitat for a diverse array of species and are an important source of domestic water supply for Appalachian communities. However, a lack of classification and mapping information on these ecosystems creates a significant barrier to conservation. In order to develop and deliver landscape-level planning tools, it is essential to develop an Appalachian-wide map depicting where cave and karst habitats and resources occur across the landscape. Researchers from an array of organizations were funded by the LCC to develop a series of deliverables, including data tables, geospatial information layers, and maps on these ecosystems.
Riparian Restoration Decision Support Tool
An innovative riparian planting and restoration decision support tool is now available to the conservation community. This user-friendly tool allows managers and decision-makers to rapidly identify and prioritize areas along the banks of rivers, streams, and lakes for restoration, making these ecosystems more resilient to disturbance and future changes in climate. It will also help the conservation community invest limited conservation dollars wisely, helping to deliver sustainable resources.
Stream Classification System for the Appalachian Landscape Conservation Cooperative
Stream classification information is essential to develop and implement flow standards and water management recommendations that will sustain aquatic biodiversity. Unfortunately, standardized information was lacking for the Appalachian landscape. The goal of this project was to develop a state-based, consistent stream classification system for aquatic ecosystems in the region. Unifying state-based stream classifications into a single consistent system, principal investigators at The Nature Conservancy developed a hierarchical classification system and map for stream and river systems for the Appalachian LCC that represents the region’s natural flowing aquatic habitats.
Survey design and techniques for sampling native bees
Wedge Watkins ( USFWS Midwest Region Pollinator Coordinator) discusses and demonstrates field survey techniques that are being used to sample native bee populations.
Energy Forecast Mapping Tool Tutorial
This video presentation by Judy Dunscomb, Senior Conservation Scientist at The Nature Conservancy, provides a detailed overview of how to use the Energy Forecast Mapping Tool.
Assessing Future Energy Development
Assessing Future Energy Development across the Appalachian LCC uses models that combine data on energy development trends and identifies where these may intersect with important natural resource and ecosystem services to give a more comprehensive picture of what potential energy development could look like in the Appalachians. A web-based mapping tool allows policy makers, land management agencies, industries, and others to see where development may likely occur and intersect with important natural values to inform regional landscape planning decisions. Ultimately this information is intended to support dialogue and conservation on how to effectively avoid, minimize, and offset impacts from energy development to important natural areas and the valuable services they provide.
Climate Change's Growing Threat to Public Lands
Secretary Jewell attended the 2014 World Parks Congress in Australia, where she stressed the need for international cooperation on public lands and the growing threat of climate change.
Data Needs Assessment Research Update
This presentation from Dr. Robert Baldwin of Clemson University provides an update to the Steering Committee on the Appalachian LCC funded research project. The Data Needs Assessment project is evaluating existing spatial data, assembling public data in geodatabase, defining conservation planning tasks that can be accomplished, identifying problems to address if data gaps are filled, interpreting uses of data, and conducting analysis of ongoing planning efforts.
Climate Webinar: Exploring Snowfall in the United States
The number of snowfall events in a given area has a large impact on road maintenance and water resources management. Snowfall data collected in the United States between 1930 and 2007 at seven locations shows how snowfall frequency has changed over time, and relates the information to a changing global climate.
Science Applications: Fostering Science Excellence for the Service
This video answers two questions: 1. What does the Science Applications program work on and; 2. Why is it important to the public and the staff of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
GIS & Conservation Planning Portal Overview
Dr. Paul Leonard provides a general overview of the GIS & Conservation Planning section within the Appalachian LCC Web Portal.
The Important Mission of USFWS
Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell shares her thoughts on “What makes the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service different from other bureaus with the Department of the Interior?” She also has a special message for Service employees.
NJ Landscape Project Training and Information Sessions
Designed to guide strategic wildlife habitat conservation, the Landscape Project is an interactive ecosystem-based mapping tool that assists government agencies, planners, conservation groups, the public and others in making decisions that will protect imperiled and special concern wildlife.
Riparian Restoration to Promote Climate Change Resilience in Eastern U.S. Streams
This presentation from Jason Coombs of the University of Massachusetts provides an update to the Steering Committee on this Appalachian LCC funded research project. The Riparian Restoration to Promote Climate Change Resilience in Eastern U.S. Streams is developing and implementing a user-friendly web-based tool to identify priority areas for riparian restoration in the context of predicted climate change at the appropriate scale needed by practitioners. A ‘shovel ready’ prioritization tool for managers facing immediate on-the-ground decisions will be developed. Then research will link directly to ongoing and future stream flow, temperature, and biological response modeling projects and decision support tools.
GIS & Conservation Planning Portal Overview
Paul Leonard provides a general overview regarding the new GIS & Conservation Planning Portal within the Appalachian LCC Web Portal. This new area of the website is intended for broad dissemination of conservation literature, tools, and other resources to help guide land managers with on-the-ground conservation action throughout the region. Users can also find a framework that supports a systematic conservation planning effort. This framework ranges from setting conservation targets to ultimately measuring conservation success. The tab structure of this portal is meant to progress in an intuitive manner which fosters an environment of informed and strategic planning. In addition, tools such as a web-enabled map viewer and decision support models can be dynamically executed.
Aquatic Ecological Flows Project Update
This presentation from Dr. Todd Walter of Cornell University provides an update to the Steering Committee on the Appalachian LCC funded research project. The Aquatic Ecological Flows project is providing a report assessing availability of hydrologic and ecological flow model(s) suitable for the region, a georeference assessment of available ecological data to inform the ecological flow model(s), the application of the model(s) to anticipate how altered flow regimes will affect critical conditions, and a report that forecasts changes in hydrology and associated predicted biological responses in relation to different water resource development scenarios for critical watersheds.
Climate Change Vulnerability Assessments Project Update
This presentation from Lesley Sneddon of NatureServe provides an update to the Steering Committee on a Appalachian LCC funded research project. Research is compiling climate change vulnerability assessments and other relevant information on vulnerable species and habitats, discerning the various methodologies and criteria used in these assessments, and using a team of expert peer reviewers to recommend the most efficient, effective, and appropriate methods for adoption by the Appalachian LCC for conservation and adaptation planning. The recommended method will then be deployed, resulting in vulnerability assessments for a suite of key species/habitats selected in consultation with partners of the Appalachian LCC.
Cave and Karst Mapping and Classification Update
This presentation from Professor David Culver of American University provides an update to the Steering Committee on the Appalachian LCC funded research project that is assembling and identifying key location and classification data while developing products that depict and map cave and karst habitats and biological resources across the Appalachian LCC. Developing a consistent classification system and mapping for cave and karst habitats is a foundational need for these highly unique habitats.This project will develop cave and karst data and a georeferenced suite of products that are consistent in methodology to support larger-scale planning efforts, yet usable at scales that will support local resource decision-makers.
Presentation of Review of Species and Habitat Selection for Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment Meeting on 1/14/14
On January 14, Lesley Sneddon of NatureServe presented this webinar to interested conservation and cooperative partners of the Appalachian LCC to present the process for the selection of the 50-75 species and 3-5 habitats proposed for assessment of climate change vulnerability. The selections were informed by the wealth of assessments already completed in all or part of the LCC region to date. The meeting generated good discussion on the process, species, habitats, and possible avenues for future research.
Conservation Planning Process
Conservation planning identifies and prioritizes lands that encompass important natural or cultural resources across the landscape (e.g., critical watersheds, habitat for rare or threatened species) and develops protection and management strategies for these lands. It is a process where science is at the core of planning, but the science is informed by groups of stakeholders using their on-the-ground knowledge and expertise. Dr. Robert Baldwin of Clemson University explains in this video the steps involved in the conservation planning process.
Planning for Growth and Open Space Conservation Webinar Series
In 2012, we embarked on a project to help inform natural resource professionals, land use planners, private landowners and others about the issues facing our forestlands – both public and private – and to help them learn about opportunities and strategies to conserve open space through a series of monthly webinars. Below is the archive of these webinars. We hope you find them interesting!
A bold plan: The story of WVU and the salvation of a historic home for brook trout
A team at WVU has been working for years with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources to examine all of the factors that led to warmer temperatures, a wider and shallower stream and other changes that over time threatened the brook trout productivity of this important natural and economic resource.
Habitat Assessment Models and Decision Support Tools for Aquatic Habitats
Fritz Boettner of Downstream Strategies presents on the North Atlantic LCC funded project to develop a decision support tool for an aquatic assessment of the Northeast. The presentation focuses on the development of a modeling methodology, process and outputs that came out of the modeling, and how stakeholders are needed for the project to be a success and develop quality assessment outputs.
Conservation Planning
Conservation planning identifies and prioritizes lands that encompass important natural or cultural resources across the landscape (e.g., critical watersheds, habitat for rare or threatened species) and develops protection and management strategies for these lands. It is a process where science is at the core of planning, but the science is informed by groups of stakeholders using their on-the-ground knowledge and expertise.
South Atlantic LCC Natural Resource Indicator Process
Rua Mordecia, Science Coordinator with the South Atlantic LCC, provide an overview of the process the South Atlantic LCC took to identify Natural Resource Indicators.
Assessing Regional Connectivity in Current and Future Landscapes
Connectivity among conservation reserves has long been recognized as necessary for long-term persistence of populations and continued evolution in anthropogenically-dominated landscapes.
What stakeholders need to know about the relationships between water resources and climate change
Christine Hatch speaks at UMass Amherst as part of the Northeast Climate Science Center Colloquium on November 28th, 2012.
Salamanders - The Hidden Jewels of Appalachia
If you want to hit paydirt the Appalachian region is the world’s salamander El Dorado—home to over 70 salamander species. The Appalachian region of the eastern United States is the world's epicenter for salamander biodiversity.
North American Migratory Bird Joint Ventures: 25 Years
Migratory Bird Joint Ventures are cooperative, regional partnerships that work to conserve habitat for the benefit of birds, other wildlife, and people.
Structured Decison Making Webinar Series
US Fish & Wildlife Service - NCTC Climate Change - Structured Decison Making Webinar Series
US Fish and Wildlife Service - Science Seminar Series - Effects of sea-level rise and altered storminess on Piping Plover breeding habitat along the U.S. Atlantic Coast- January, 2012 - National LCC Event
January 2012 seminar of the five monthly seminar series presented on LCC projects. The January series features Sarah Karpanty's presentation: Effects of sea-level rise and altered storminess on Piping Plover breeding habitat along the U.S. Atlantic Coast.
US Fish and Wildlife Service - Science Seminar Series - Evaluating the Vulnerabilities of Ecological Resources to Climate Change in the Northeast- December, 2011 - National LCC Event
December 2011 seminar of the five monthly seminar series presented on LCC projects. The December series features Dr. Hector Galbraith and Lesley Sneddon's presentation: Evaluating the Vulnerabilities of Ecological Resources to Climate Change in the Northeast.
Assessing the Impact of Projected Housing Density on High Priority Forest Birds
Dr. Todd Jones-Farrand, Science Coordinator, Central Hardwoods Bird Joint Venture
Development by Design
Nels Johnson, Deputy State Director, and Tamara Gagnolet, Spatial Analyst, The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvannia.
Whole-System Landscape Vision
Thomas Minney, Central Appalachians Program Director
Vulnerability Assessment
Dr. Olivia LeDee, Postdoctoral Associate, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dept. of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, Madison, Wi.University of Minnesota, Working with the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes LCC
Using SDM to Ensure Landscape Scale Sustainability for Natural and Cultural Resources
Dr. Rua Mortecai, South Atlantic LCC, Science Coordinator
John Tirpak PPT Presentation pdf
This webinar discusses the background and challenges to Conservation Planning Atlases (CPA), potential solutions, specifics of a CPA, and current progress and next steps.
The Conservation Resource Webinar
Dr. Kenneth Elowe, Assistant Regional Director US Fish and Wildlife Service Northeast Regional Office, Assistant Regional Director, Science Applications.
Landscape-scale Conservation Planning
A basic overview of the principles and methods for the Appalachian Landscape Conservation Cooperative, including a discussion on the major goals of landscape conservation. Dr. Rob Baldwin, Professor, Clemson University
