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In this episode, we sit down with Christopher Brown, author of A Natural History of Empty Lots, to uncover the stories hidden in the overlooked spaces of our cities. Christopher shares his unique perspective on urban landscapes—vacant lots, overgrown alleys, and forgotten corners—revealing the vibrant ecosystems and cultural narratives thriving within them. Drawing on his experience as a speculative fiction writer, he challenges us to rethink the value of these unintentional landscapes and their role in shaping our connection to the wider world.

We discuss themes from his book, including the intersections of biodiversity, ecological restoration, and the unexpected beauty found in urban spaces. Christopher also reflects on how his dystopian fiction background shaped his views on resilience, adaptation, and our responsibility to imagine better futures. Whether you're an urban dweller, a nature enthusiast, or just curious about the life teeming in the margins of your city, this conversation will leave you inspired to see your environment through a new lens.

Links and Resources

• Christopher Brown’s Website: christopherbrown.com

• Field Notes: Reports from Edgelands

• Living Planet Index 2024 Report

• Christopher’s Book, A Natural History of Empty Lots: Find it here

Connect with Us

• Treehugger Podcast on Instagram: @treehuggerpod

• Twitter: @treehuggerpod

• Facebook: Treehugger Podcast

Music for this episode provided by Kevin Macleod and Go By Ocean

In this podcast episode, the discussion dives into the complexities and nuances of ecosystem monitoring, led by the Dylan Mendenhall's deep experience and passion for the field. He emphasizes the importance of well-defined questions to drive high-quality monitoring efforts, contrasting effective monitoring with what they term “zombie monitoring”—data collection that continues without purpose due to sunk cost fallacies or lack of clear objectives. The conversation spans from traditional techniques like plot-based sampling and transect surveys to advanced molecular methods like eDNA, which may revolutionize the way we monitor microbial life and species presence, such as salmon populations in streams.

Remote sensing tools like LiDAR and Landsat are highlighted for their critical role in capturing landscape-level data, aiding in efforts to monitor urban canopy cover and assess heat disparities in historically under-resourced areas. Dylan stresses the challenges in ecological monitoring, from inconsistent funding—often dependent on short-term grants—to data management, where data hoarding hinders potential collaborations and broader ecological insights. He advocates for partnerships, especially when involving multiple stakeholders with complementary expertise, to foster sustainable, impactful monitoring efforts.

Ultimately, the episode explores both the scientific rigor and the philosophical mindset needed in monitoring, encouraging listeners to consider ecosystems not just as research subjects but as collaborators in knowledge-building. Whether through “thinking like a mountain” or creating detailed conceptual models, we illustrate a holistic approach to monitoring that balances scientific inquiry with a deep respect for the natural world.

Haven Ecology and Research Website

Music for this episode courtesy of The 126ers and Otis McDonald

We explore a fresh perspective on non-native and introduced species. Traditionally viewed as pests or threats to ecosystems, some of these species offer hidden benefits that are often overlooked in conventional pest management frameworks. We dive into the complexities of integrated pest management (IPM), discussing the importance of balancing ecological restoration with justice, health, and livelihoods.

This episode was adapted from a talk originally given to an audience focused on integrated pest management. It encourages listeners to rethink the language we use around non-native species, while offering insights into their potential contributions to ecosystems, medicinal practices, and more.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The impact-focused traditional approach of integrated pest management (IPM)
• The often-overlooked benefits of non-native species
• Political ecology and how power relations influence our views on species
• The relationship between ecological restoration and cultural responsiveness
• Medicinal uses of “weeds” and their place in autonomous healing practices
• How rethinking our language around invasive species can shift our environmental practices

Further Reading and Resources: For those interested in diving deeper into the topics covered in this episode, here are some recommended readings and resources:

1. "Just Language" Project
   Learn more about how changing the language we use around species management can transform our ecological and cultural approaches.
   Visit JustLanguage.org

2. Herbal Astrology Oracle Deck by Anima Mundi and Ayana Ayales
   This oracle deck ties together herbalism, astrology, and ancient wisdom, making connections between plants, their medicinal uses, and astrological influences. A fun, creative way to learn more about the plants discussed in this episode.
   More on Herbal Astrology Oracle

3. "Honorable Harvest" – Robin Wall Kimmerer
   For more on indigenous perspectives, Robin Wall Kimmerer’s concept of the Honorable Harvest offers valuable ethical guidelines for interacting with nature.
   Watch her talk on YouTube

4. "Invasive Plant Relations in a Global Pandemic: Caring for a “Problematic Pesto” by Gabrielle Doiran
   This paper explores the tensions surrounding invasive species management and advocates for a justice-centered approach to environmental restoration, incorporating ideas of multispecies entanglements and caring for invasive species.

5. "Valuing the Contributions of Non-Native Species to People and Nature" by Dov Sachs et al.
   A framework that examines both the positive and negative impacts of non-native species on ecosystems, highlighting their contributions to social cohesion, food production, climate change mitigation, and mental health.

Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review, subscribing, or sharing it with your friends. Your support helps us continue bringing you insightful conversations on ecological restoration and the healing power of nature.

Follow Us:

Instagram: @treehuggerpod | email: treehuggerpod@gmail.com

Music for this episode courtesy of Adam McDougal and TrackTribe

Underground seed banks, passive restoration, and ecological memory - these elements are crucial in understanding and facilitating natural recovery processes in ecosystems.

We'll explore how leveraging underground seed banks, which contain dormant seeds waiting for the right conditions to germinate, can support native plant regeneration. This approach is relational, often less expensive, and informs a long-range view. It also relies on the ecological memory, which refers to an ecosystem's ability to retain information about past states and disturbances, aiding its recovery and resilience.

Topics Covered:

• Importance of underground seed banks in restoration
• Differences between passive and active restoration
• Concept and significance of ecological memory
• Examples of natural regeneration strategies

Resources:

High Country News article: "Underground seed banks hold promise for ecological restoration" by Josephine Woolington

Read more about ecological memory for yourself at Google Scholar

Social media: @treehuggerpod

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• Donate via mobile payment services @myadrick via Paypal and Venmo and CashApp. Subscribe, rate and review the show please on whichever podcast platform you enjoy listening to. It helps people find the show. Or tell a friend about the show.

Music from the show Lish Grooves and MK2

Thanks for tuning in! See you in the woods.

This episode delves into the integration of artificial intelligence within the field of ecological restoration. Covering a broad spectrum from the practical to the philosophical, the conversation explores the potential for AI to reshape restoration practices, the ethical considerations at play, and the importance of balancing technological advancement with traditional ecological knowledge. Through personal anecdotes, professional experiences, and a look towards the future, the guests offer a comprehensive exploration of how AI is shaping the landscape of ecological restoration and what that means for the environment and society.

Episode Segments

1. Introducing the Experts

Meet Sam Woodrich, a Ph.D. student at Oregon State University, and Dr. Timothy Pape, a postdoctoral research associate at Bowling Green State University. Both bring a wealth of knowledge in environmental and social sciences and share their insights on AI in ecological restoration.

Woodrich, Samuel T., and Timothy Pape. "Ecological restoration and artificial intelligence: whose values inform a project?." Restoration Ecology (2024): e14128.

2. Exploring AI in Ecological Restoration

An overview of how AI is currently being utilized in ecological restoration projects. This segment covers practical applications, from predictive modeling to species identification.

3. Bridging the Gap: AI Tools as Assistants

Discussion on AI tools such as the Merlin Bird ID app and iNaturalist, and how they assist in ecological monitoring and data collection. The segment emphasizes the collaborative potential between AI and human expertise.

4. Debating AI's Role and Impact

A critical look at the limitations and biases of AI in ecological restoration. This segment explores the ethical considerations and the need for integrating traditional ecological knowledge with AI-driven methods.

5. Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe?

An exploration of AI’s potential benefits and risks. The experts discuss whether AI can be a reliable partner in restoration efforts or if it poses significant challenges that need to be carefully managed.

6. Looking to the Future: AI, Restoration, and Beyond

Insights into future advancements in AI technology and their potential impact on ecological restoration. The segment highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and adaptive management in leveraging AI for sustainable outcomes.

7. Wrapping Up and Rapid Fire Questions

A fun and engaging wrap-up segment where the experts answer rapid-fire questions, sharing personal anecdotes and their visions for the future of AI in ecological restoration.

Read more for yourself at Google Scholar. A growing number of articles provide an overview of the current state and potential of AI in ecological restoration, addressing both the technical capabilities and the ethical considerations involved.

It takes a community to keep a podcast like this going. As an independent show, every contribution makes a difference. If you'd like to support us, you can donate via Paypal and Venmo and Cashapp and your generosity helps cover the small overhead costs of producing the show.

Music from the episode is Lish Grooves

In this episode, we're joined by two extraordinary guests, Seth Zuckerman and Kirk Hansen, who bring decades of experience and insight to the practice of ecological forestry. Their recent book, "A Forest of Your Own," serves as a comprehensive guide for forest stewards in Oregon and Washington, covering essential skills like evaluating land, sustainable management, wildfire risk reduction, and climate change adaptation. Seth and Kirk address the diverse needs of family forest owners, community forests, municipalities, and Indigenous tribes, offering insights on sustainable wood harvest, wildlife habitat enhancement, and watershed protection.

Kirk Hanson is an experienced forest educator and pracitioner, skilled in guiding forest owners to managed their land sustainably. He has worked with a variety of landowners, and also blogs about his own family's experiences managing 200 acres of forestland in the South Puget Sound.

As a journalist, Seth Zuckerman reported extensively on forests, salmon and the human communities that depend on them. He also serves as Executive Director of Northwest Natural Resources Group, and he is author of several books, including Saving Our Ancient Forests and Salmon Nation.

During our conversation, Seth and Kirk discuss how ecological forestry differs from conventional industrial forestry, advocating for practices that prioritize ecosystem health and long-term sustainability. They share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of interventions like thinning to promote forest resilience, especially in the face of climate change. Their book and work aim to empower forest landowners with the knowledge and tools to become responsible stewards of their land, promoting ecological health and resilience for the benefit of both people and the environment.

As we explore the balance between human intervention and natural processes in forest management, Seth and Kirk address common questions and misconceptions about forest management, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that considers long-term ecological health and diverse benefits for future generations. They highlight the role of ecological diversity in promoting economic resilience and offer practical advice for forest observation and engagement.

A Forest of Your Own book www.nnrg.org/book

Keeping Up with the Hansons Blog www.nnrg.org/hansonfamilyforest

You can donate to help cover the small overhead for the show. @myadrick via Paypal and Venmo and CashApp.

Music from the show Stayloose | Gunnar Olson | Cumbia Deli

In this episode, we delve into the world of plant medicines. Our guest, Natalie Hammerquist, a herbalist based in Washington state, shares her extensive knowledge and experience in herbalism and foraging local wild plants. Natalie's journey, rooted in a degree from The Evergreen State College, led her to explore herbalism, plant taxonomy, and food science. Under the guidance of renowned herbalists like Cascade Anderson Geller and Matthew Wood, Natalie integrated aspects of Chinese medicine and Western herbalism into her practice.

What's particularly intriguing about our conversation is Natalie's emphasis on the importance of collaboration between restorationists and herbalists to ensure sustainable caretaking and the preservation of plant resources. Natalie also shares her personal journey into herbalism, shaped by her own health struggles during college, and highlights the diverse approaches within herbalism, blending scientific methodologies with traditional wisdom.

Additionally, Natalie sheds light on the regulatory disparities between the United States and Europe, emphasizing the need for advocacy and education to support herbalism and holistic health practices. She offers insights into her forthcoming book, "Medicinal Plants of the Pacific Northwest," which aims to provide practical guidance and visual aids for identifying medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of accurate plant identification and ethical harvesting practices.

We dig into topics such as the significance of timing in harvesting, ethical considerations inspired by Robin Wall Kimmerer's concept of the Honorable Harvest, and the therapeutic properties of plants like knotweed, blackberry, and hawthorn. Natalie advocates for sustainable harvesting practices that balance the benefits and impacts of these plants, promoting a mindful approach that honors the interconnectedness of all living beings and fosters responsibility for the wider environment.

Adiantum School of Plant Medicine website | Instagram

Medicinal Plants of the Pacific Northwest: A Visual Guide to Harvesting and Healing with 35 Common Species

Natalie will be presenting her new book, "Medicinal Plants of the Pacific Northwest: A Visual Guide to Harvesting and Healing with 35 Common Species," at Third Place Books in Seward Park on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 7:00pm. https://www.thirdplacebooks.com/event/natalie-hammerquist

Music from this show: John Patitucci | Soy Emilia