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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

Join the Spotlight on Natural Resources Podcast team for a Research Bite!

Bird Feeding

Bird feeding is a popular past time. Dave Shiley, Extension Educator, describes how things like feeder placement can make a difference to your bird feeding success.

Roof Gutter cleaning

Extension Educator, Duane Friend, talks about proper cleaning of gutters during the fall.

Research at Dudley Smith Initiative

Extension Educator, Gary Letteryly talks about

  • Illinois Drainage Research and Outreach Programs (I-DROP website)
  • Projects currently underway
    • Dudley Smith Initiative – Balancing Water Quality and Nutrient Management Goals for Intensification of Corn Systems
    • ...

Native Plants

Extension Educator Jason Haupt explains the benefits of using native plants in your plantings.

Monarch Butterflies

Peggy Doty, Extension Educator in Natural Resources, talks about Monarch Butterflies and how Illinois residents can improve habitat for them.

invasive species

Extension Educator, Jay Solomon explains why invasive species can be a threat to our landscapes, and food production.

Climate Change in Illinois

In this podcast, Educator Duane Friend talks about potential ramifications of global warming on the client in Illinois.

Organic Controls for Backyard Pests

Jason Haupt, Extension Eductor for the University of Illinois explains in this podcast how to better control insects like mosquitos in your yard without resorting to pesticides.

Coyotes in Illinois

Coyotes have to be one of the most misunderstood species in Illinois and the U.S. They conjure up mixed feelings of fear, anger, and for some wild beauty. Many of these feelings depend on who you are, where you live, and even what you do for a living. Coyotes get blamed for many things they...

2016 Severe Weather Preparedness

Extension Educator Duane Friend talks about steps that can be taken before and after a weather disaster to keep you and your family safe.

Podcast Hosts

Duane Friend

Duane Friend

State Master Naturalist and Climate Change Specialist