Latest podcast episodes

In this episode, DWR Central Region Habitat Program Manager Mark Farmer and DWR Wildlife Lands Coordinator Chelsea Duke talk about the division-owned Wildlife Management Areas — what they are, the purpose of these lands and the activities that are allowed there.

In this episode, DWR Wildlife Section Chief Justin Shannon, DWR Habitat Restoration Biologist Nicole Nielson and Troy Forrest, the director of the Grazing Improvement Program with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, talk about some of the impacts of drought conditions on big game animals, livestock, and their habitat and grazing areas.

In this episode, DWR Habitat Section Assistant Chief Paul Thompson and Trout Unlimited Communications Director for Science, Western Water & Habitat and Headwater Programs Brett Prettyman talk all about Utah's exciting fishing challenge — the Utah Cutthroat Slam. They explain why the program was started, how it works and how it's helping native cutthroat trout.

In this episode, DWR's Eccles Wildlife Education Center Site Coordinator Billy Fenimore talks about the beautiful facility at Farmington Bay, what visitors can do there, what types of birds you can expect to see and how to get into birdwatching.

In this episode, DWR Wildlife Technician Steve Gray showcases one of the division's grossest jobs: roadkill removal. He explains the process of removing these dead animals, some of the difficulties of the job, and tips drivers should be aware of to help avoid a collision. This episode was originally recorded in October 2020.

In this episode, DWR Fisheries Experiment Station Director Wade Cavender talks about the unique research and fish health certification work being done at the facility. (And no, despite the name, it does not include experiments creating new Frankenstein-esque fish.) This episode was originally recorded in October 2020. Note: At the time of this recording, the name of this facility was the Fisheries Experiment Station. As of April 2023, the facility has been renamed the Aquatic Animal Health and Research Center.

In this episode, Great Salt Lake Ecosystem Program Manager John Luft talks about one of Utah's largest birds — how they are unique, why they choose to nest along the Great Salt Lake, and how the DWR helps manage them. This episode was originally recorded in October 2020.

In this episode, DWR Great Salt Lake Ecosystem Program Manager John Luft and DWR Conservation Officer Trevor Doman talk about the multi-million dollar industry on the Great Salt Lake that many people may not even be aware exists and how the DWR helps manage this unique resource. This episode was originally recorded in October 2020.

In this episode, DWR Habitat Restoration Biologist Nicole Nielson and Trout Unlimited Project Manager Jordan Nielson explain the innovative and effective method of building artificial beaver dams to help restore river landscapes. This unique technique was actually conceptualized right here in Utah and decreases erosion, raises river levels and even improves water quality!

In this episode, DWR Avian Conservation Program Coordinator, Russell Norvell, talks all about some lesser-known wildlife in Utah: Birds of prey. Ranging from tiny flammulated owls to the large endangered California condors, these birds all have unique characteristics and play a large part in the ecosystem. You will also get a look at the unique sport of falconry — using raptors as a weapon in hunting upland game — as well as ways you can help these incredible birds.