Join Part-Time Parkers as they visit Warner Park in Nashville, Tennessee. Naturalists Elise and Jessa share their experiences working with various conservation projects including the creation of pollinator gardens and the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project. Learn about the importance of native plants, the impact of pollinators, and how community engagement and education play a crucial role in conservation efforts. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the significance of maintaining healthy ecosystems and fostering connections with nature.

In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Bernie and Rebecca visit the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens in Dothan, Alabama. They interview the executive director, William Holman, who shares the history, development, and unique features of the botanical gardens. From its origins as a soybean farm to becoming a beloved community space, the gardens host a variety of plants, walking trails, and special areas like the butterfly house. They discuss the importance of conservation and education, the numerous volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events that bring the community together. This episode provides an insightful look into the transformative power of nature and community involvement.

Join Part-time Parkers at Landmark Park in Dothan, Alabama, for an exciting episode of Part-Time Parkers. This special day celebrates Fall Farm Day, featuring activities like soap making and blacksmithing. Meet David Jay, the park's executive director, and Kristen Pierce, the marketing manager, as they share stories about the park's history, its unique attractions, and the importance of outdoor education. Learn how the park operates primarily through volunteers and community support, and discover the joys of outdoor activities that connect generations. Perfect for families looking to explore the great outdoors!

Join Bernie and Rebecca on Part-Time Parkers as they talk with Julianne Jacobs from the Center for Mollusk Conservation. Explore the hidden world of freshwater mussels—their vital role in cleaning waterways, the innovative conservation techniques used to protect them, and their connections to host fish and Hellbender salamanders. A fascinating look at how these overlooked creatures keep aquatic ecosystems thriving.

In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, Bernie and Rebecca chat with Ivan Chester of Habitat Landscapes, keynote speaker at Warner Park’s Hummingbird Celebration. Ivan shares his journey from self-taught gardener to native plant landscaper and explains why native plants are vital for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Learn how to create wildlife-friendly yards, use non-toxic pest control, and choose plants that thrive in your region. A must-listen for anyone hoping to make their yard more eco-friendly and supportive of local wildlife.

Join Part-time Parkers as they visit Carolina Beach State Park with superintendent Crystal Lloyd. Discover the fascinating world of carnivorous plants like the Venus Fly Trap, explore the park’s unique habitats, and learn how conservation efforts like prescribed burns protect these ecosystems. Crystal also shares her path to becoming a park ranger and the many roles involved in preserving North Carolina’s natural treasures.

Join Part-Time Parkers' as they explore Dunbar Cave State Park, with special guest Ranger Adam. Discover the rich history, intriguing mysteries, and significant conservation efforts of this beautiful 144-acre park in Clarksville, Tennessee. Learn about the park's indigenous heritage, its transformation from a popular resort to a state park, and the captivating cave art that dates back 10,000 years. Don't miss out on the fascinating stories, lost houses, and forgotten graves revealed in this episode.

Join Bernie and Rebecca at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, where they chat with Ranger Benjamin Fleming. Learn about the park’s rich history as North Carolina’s oldest functioning state park and its vital sea turtle conservation efforts. From historic forts to coastal wildlife, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural and cultural treasures of Fort Macon.

Dive into the fascinating history and sustainable practices at Port Royal State Historic Park with Ranger Danny on Part-Time Parkers.

Part-Time Parkers explore the fascinating Sadie Ford Heritage Farm, a satellite site of Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Meet Ranger Shauna, who shares the rich history of the farm and its association with the park. Discover the farm's acquisition story, various conservation efforts, and educational programming. Enjoy insights from Bill Maddox, who shares his experiences with blacksmithing and hands-on activities for visitors. Learn about future workshops, blacksmithing classes, and the unique ecosystem of the park. This episode is packed with historical tidbits, interactive experiences, and inspiring stories that highlight the importance of conservation and education at the state park.

Join Part-time Parkers as they explore Shelby Park, Bottoms, and Greenway with special guests Tony Lance from the Tennessee Wildlife Federation and Lana Friedman from Shelly Bottoms Nature Center. They discuss birding tips, conservation efforts, and the fascinating experiences that make these natural areas special. Discover how to start birding, the importance of bird songs, and how to create a certified wildlife habitat in your backyard. Don't miss out on learning about the different parks in Nashville and how you can get involved in their birding programs. Happy birding!

In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Rebecca and Bernie visit Edgar Evans State Park where they participate in a food preservation program. They are joined by local Ranger Justin Vaughn, who shares his journey to becoming a park ranger and his local expertise. The also discuss the importance of learning and preserving traditional skills, along with information about various upcoming historical and conservation programs at the park. Tune in to learn more about the park's offerings and hear some entertaining stories from the canning session.

Dr. Anthony Abbate from Auburn University speaks to us about his work with native bees in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology. Dr. Abbate discusses the importance of pollinators, the alarming decline in pollinator populations, and how the public can help through initiatives like the iNaturalist project. He also provides practical advice on cultivating wildflower gardens and native grasses to promote pollinator habitats. The episode underscores the critical need for conservation efforts to support pollinators.

Join hosts Rebecca and Bernie on Part-time Parkers as they interview wildlife biologist Ray Metzler. Ray shares insights from his 30-year career with Alabama's state gaming fish agency and his current role with the Alabama Forestry Commission. He discusses his work on endangered species, the importance of conservation, and how simple actions can make a big difference in preserving natural habitats. From the fascinating lives of woodpeckers to the immense biodiversity in Alabama, this episode is packed with valuable information for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts alike.

We continue with our trip to Lake Point State Park in Alabama. This episode features conversations with Park Naturalists, who share their journeys into park conservation and describe their daily responsibilities. Special guest Tasha Simon, Chief of Natural Resource Section for Alabama State Parks, explains the vital role of prescribed fire in conservation and her experiences with the park system. This episode is packed with insights into the unique features and stories of Alabama’s state parks. Don't miss it!

In the season 2 kickoff of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Rebecca and Bernie return to Lake Point State Park in Eufaula, Alabama, where their journey began a year ago. Joined by Ed Lewis from the Alabama Forestry Commission, they embark on a fascinating plant walk, discussing invasive species, the rich biodiversity of Alabama's forests, and the historical significance of certain tree species. Ed shares numerous stories and educational insights that highlight the state's unique natural heritage. Don't miss out on learning about Alabama's incredible flora and the importance of preserving native species.

This week we visit the Middle Tennessee Raptor Center in Tullahome, Tennessee. Meet Valerie and Lyle Russell, who manage the center while balancing full-time careers. Learn about their incredible work rehabilitating injured birds of prey, the process of releasing them back into the wild, and the educational programs they offer. Valerie and Lyle share touching success stories, challenges they face, and provide tips on what to do if you find an injured bird. Discover the importance of conservation and the critical role these majestic birds play in our ecosystem.

In this episode, Rebecca and Bernie share their spontaneous adventure at Radner Lake State Park in Tennessee. Despite a late start and some logistical challenges, they explore the park, encounter various wildlife, and capture memorable moments with their cameras.

Discover the hidden wonders of the park, including wildflower hikes, invasive species, and the importance of staying on trails. Learn about the unique responsibilities of a park ranger and the fascinating science behind plant and wildlife management. Stay until the end to hear tips on visiting the park and special upcoming events. This episode is packed with insights on nature, conservation, and the beauty of Tennessee State Parks.

Join us in this episode of Part-Time Parkers as we visit Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester, Tennessee. Hosted by park ranger Indiana Callway, the episode explores Indiana's journey to becoming a park ranger, offers insights into the park's history and its educational black powder demonstration. Learn about the Native American history, the significance of the Duck River, and the life of mill workers in the 1800s. Discover the park's trails, waterfalls, and its diverse ecology, all wrapped up with some practical visitor tips.