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Spotlight on Natural Resources

We cover a wide range of topics that help you become an advocate for our planet.
Spotlight on Natural Resources Podcast

Latest Episode

These Illinoisians and ecology-minded podcast hosts discuss the nuances of No Mow May and why it may not be the best fit for Illinois.

Giant Puffballs

Peggy Doty, Extension Educator in Natural Resources, explains this large white mushroom that appears this time of year.

Cougars, Bears and Wolves oh my

Cougars, Bears and Wolves have all been spotted in Illinois in the last several years. Extension Educator Duane Friend talks about the sightings and a semindar that is coming up in August that will talk about the population trends for these animals.

Dangerous Plants in Illinois

In this podcast, Extension Educator for the University of Illinois, describes what the most common dangerous plants are in Illinois, how to identify them and how to protect yourself from them.

Renewables seminar

This podcast explains the upcoming seminar on homeowner renewable energy, like wind and solar.

Energy Savings for the Summer

In this edition of Spotlight on Natural Resources, Extension Educator Jay Solomon points out how to save energy and money around the home during the summer months.

Backyard Habitat

There are many things that can be done to make our yards a more inviting place for wildlife. Extension Educator Jason Haupt explains what makes for an ideal place for wildlife right outside your door.

Lawn to Lake /Natural Lawn Care

Keeping our lakes and waterways free of fertilizers and pesticides is the responsibility of everyone, including homeowners. Allison Neubauer, Great Lakes Outreach Associate with the Illinois-Indiana SEA Grant explains ways to have a great looking lawn while protecting the environment.

Anaerobic Digestion

In this podcast, Extension Educator Ashley Belle describes Anaerobic Digestion and its use in methane production. Dr. Belle has extensive experience in this topic and brings insights into real life uses in Illinois.

2018 Soil and Water Webinars

Duane Friend, Extension Educator for the University of Illinois describes the topics in this year's Soil and Water Webinar Series. Seventeen sites across the state will play host to this timely event.

Energy Conservation

In this podcast Extension Educator Jay Solomon explains how the Christmas season is an excellent time to take stock of our energy use, and ways to save.

Podcast Hosts

Duane Friend

Duane Friend

State Master Naturalist and Climate Change Specialist