Storing animal DNA; the value of school forest programs; and the arrival of paddling season

Air Date:
Heard On The Larry Meiller Show
This September 12, 2018 photo provided by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission shows a lake trout swimming off Isle Royale, Mich., in Lake Superior. Lake trout were once the most dominant fish predator fish species in the Great Lakes but declined in the 20th century because of attacks from invasive sea lamprey, plus overfishing and pollution. Andrew Muiri/Great Lakes Fishery Commission via AP

“Banking” DNA from endangered regional animals is under consideration by UW researchers. Then, we talk about forest school programs, which started in Wisconsin nearly 100 years ago. Then, we get seasonal paddling advice.

Featured in this Episode

  • Biobanking DNA now could save species from extinction later

    Native Great Lakes wildlife is at risk of extinction due in part to climate change and pollution. Before species are lost, their DNA could be “banked” for future regeneration. We talk to UW-Madison genetic professor Francisco Pelegri about the effort he’s leading to do just that.

  • Wisconsin’s school forest program gets kids out in the woods

    To teach young people about the importance of conservation, Wisconsin in 1928 was the first state to establish a school forest program. We talk to Lori Danz, the school forest coordinator for the Superior School District, about how the program works today.

  • When, where and how to paddle in Wisconsin

    It’s peak paddling season, and Rutabaga Paddlesports owner Darren Bush joins us to talk about new kayak and canoe gear and some special places in Wisconsin to go to get your boat wet.

    Water Data for the Nation

    Wisconsin’s Wild Lakes: A Guide to the Last Undeveloped National Lakes by John Bates

Episode Credits

  • Larry Meiller Host
  • Francisco Pelegri Guest
  • Lori Danz Guest
  • Darren Bush Guest
  • Jill Nadeau Executive Producer
  • Joel Patenaude Producer
  • Jeff Robbins Technical Director

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