Minnesota DNR Prairie Pod

Minnesota DNR Prairie Pod

Author: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Language: English Episodes: 59
Step into a landscape of rustling grasses and hidden life with Minnesota DNR Prairie Pod. Produced by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this series explores the intricate world of the tallgrass prairie, an ecosystem that once dominated the continent and now requires careful attention. Each episode brings forward voices from the field-ecologists, land managers, and conservationists-who share their direct experiences and ongoing work. Conversations delve into the practical challenges of restoration, the surprising science behind fire-dependent landscapes, and the quiet beauty found in a blooming prairie patch. You might hear about the specific management of a state wildlife area, the return of a native plant species, or the collaborative efforts between private landowners and public agencies. It’s a mix of grounded storytelling and accessible science, offering a deeper appreciation for a place that is both resilient and fragile. This podcast connects you to the ongoing story of Minnesota's natural heritage, emphasizing that understanding this complex habitat is the first step in ensuring its future. The dialogue is genuine, often recorded on-site, making you feel like you’re standing right there in the wind.
Episodes
Prairie: Seasonal Stories Bonus Episode [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:58
We're featuring many special guests and people of the prairie to showcase their stories of connection, diversity, and learning as they pass on their experiences. Thinking of prairie as a tradition is at the heart of our…
Prairie: what have you done for me lately? (Prairie Economics 101) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:51
One of the hardest things to quantify is how much things like clean air, drinkable water, flood control, and healthy soils are worth. How do you quantify the benefit of these ecosystem services and what is the cost when…
Deep thoughts on shallow lakes and prairie [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:11
We're getting our feet wet in Minnesota's shallow lakes. Coming in at depths under 15 feet these permanent and sometimes semi-permanent water bodies are a critical habitat component for Minnesota's wildlife.
Sheep, solar, and satisfied pollinators [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:50
Prairie landscapes are renewable energy rich with all the wind and sun our prairies experience, and renewable energy development can have a big footprint in these landscapes. Today we discuss an emerging trend to develop…
Let's go explore: Prairie tour of Minnesota's state parks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:20:21
Featuring places near and dear to our hearts: Minnesota State Parks and Trails! We are joined by park managers and naturalists to share the special prairie places in the parks they love. Hear insider tips from the people…
Whats for lunch? Prairie predators [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:21
Predators sometimes get a bad rap because they, well, eat the critters we admire. But it's important to understand that they play pivotal roles in the prairie ecosystem. Predators are a key ingredient of prairies.
Holiday Bonus Episode! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:14:28
On today's podcast, we're featuring people of the prairie to showcase their real life work in the fight to save a landscape that hangs on with just under 2% left in the state. Their special connections show us the joy an…
Live from the Minnesota State Fair [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:13
Hosts Megan and Mike take the prairie pod on the road and come to you live from the Minnesota State Fair. They share the importance of prairie, what they love about it, and four special places you can discover the prairi…