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Podcast

The Hide recording episode at Vortex Studio

The Hide

The Hide
Summary
This episode of The Hide features Mark Kakatsch and Dr. Rich Beilfuss of the International Crane Foundation. They discuss the history and comeback story of Sandhill and Whooping cranes in Wisconsin, highlighting the impressive conservation efforts that have led to their thriving populations. They also talk about the unique migration patterns and the importance of these birds in the local economy.

Highlights
🐦 The International Crane Foundation (ICF) was founded in 1973 with the goal of protecting cranes worldwide.
πŸ“ˆ Sandhill cranes have made a remarkable comeback in Wisconsin, with their numbers increasing significantly in recent decades.
πŸ—ΊοΈ Whooping cranes were reintroduced to Wisconsin after being absent for over a century, and their migration patterns are being studied closely.
πŸ’° The presence of cranes has boosted tourism and local economies in areas like Horicon, Wisconsin.
πŸ—“οΈ The International Crane Foundation hosts a festival in early November to celebrate the arrival of Sandhill cranes in the area.
Ep. 33 Talking Wisconsin Cranes with Dr. Rich Beilfuss of the International Crane Foundation
Summary
🌱 Wisconsin Wildlife Federation is intervening in a Public Service Commission hearing to protect the greater prairie chicken habitat from a proposed 8,500-acre solar project.

Highlights
πŸ” The project is in the center of greater prairie chicken habitat.
🚫 The project would create a barrier for deer travel and hunting.
πŸ’° The impact to conservation land could be up to $10 million.
πŸ—“οΈ The Public Service Commission must make a decision by the end of January.
🀝 Wisconsin Wildlife Federation is working to protect wildlife and the interests of sportsmen.
Ep. 32 Fighting for Wisconsin Prairie Chickens with George Meyer
Summary

Managing Wisconsin’s bear population involves collaboration, science, and public input to ensure a healthy and sustainable resource.

Highlights

🐻 Comprehensive management plan guides bear management, hunting seasons, and conflict resolution.
πŸ“ˆ Extensive hunting season data and high harvest numbers demonstrate a robust bear population.
πŸ”¬ Hunter data on harvested bears provides valuable information for population monitoring.
🀝 Stakeholder groups and advisory committees play a crucial role in shaping management policies.
πŸ“² Public involvement and outreach help inform and improve management practices.
Ep. 31 Bear Management in Wisconsin with Randy Johnson
Summary
Enjoy this mouthwatering recipe for rhubarb BBQ wild turkey on the grill!

Highlights
πŸ– Learn how to expertly prepare and trim turkey breast.
πŸ§… Make a citrus marinade with a touch of rhubarb and grill your turkey to perfection.
πŸ”₯ Get tips for better results grilling your turkey.
🌿 Create a flavorful ramp marinade for an added burst of freshness.
🍴 Savor the delicious results of your culinary adventure!
Ep. 030 Rhubarb BBQ Wild Turkey on the Grill
Summary
The podcast features young winners of the Junior Duck Stamp contest discussing their artwork, inspirations, and experiences with conservation.

Highlights
🎨 Junior duck stamp contest winners showcase their talent and passion for conservation.
🌿 Young artists share their motivations for participating in the contest.
πŸ¦† Contestants reveal their process of creating their duck stamp artwork.
🌟 Winners encourage others to have confidence, put in effort, and be proud of their work.
🌳 Emphasis on the importance of wetlands and conservation efforts.
Ep. 029 Junior Duck Stamp Contest Winners
Summary
πŸ“Ί Meet the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, Bruce Ross!

Highlights
πŸ¦† Partnership with Wildlife Federation and DNR for surveys and habitat restoration
🌳 Public Lands Ecologist Program to enhance 1.4 million acres of DNR land
πŸ‘₯ Growing membership with a target of 10% of state waterfowlers
πŸŽͺ Waterfowl Hunters Expo in Oshkosh on August 24th
🀝 Collaboration with national brands like RMEF, Ducks Unlimited, and Vortex

https://waterfowlhuntersexpo.com/
https://www.wisducks.org/
Ep. 028 Sit down with Bruce Ross from the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association
Summary
Vortex Optics, a Wisconsin-based company, is deeply committed to conservation and has a strong focus on supporting wildlife and habitat preservation.

Highlights
🦌 Vortex Optics has a rich history of supporting conservation efforts, starting from a wild bird store to becoming a leading optics brand.
🌎 The company is deeply involved in conservation at both local and national levels, partnering with organizations like the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association and the National Wild Turkey Federation.
🏞️ Vortex Optics also supports habitat work in Wisconsin, demonstrating a commitment to the local community and environment.
πŸ”­ The company’s unique approach to employee ownership and their focus on supporting various outdoor activities sets them apart in the industry.
🌟 Vortex Optics has a strong emphasis on promoting hunting, shooting, and birding, and encourages its employees to participate in these outdoor activities, fostering a culture of genuine passion for the outdoors.
Ep. 027 Business Focused on Conservation with Sawyer Briel of Vortex Optics
Summary
Newly elected president of the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, Connie Polzin, shares her journey into conservation and her plans for the future.

Highlights
🌲 Connie’s childhood experiences at a log cabin sparked her passion for conservation.
🌿 She aims to unify different groups for the common goal of conservation.
🦌 A focus on outreach and recruitment to create a more diverse and inclusive federation.
πŸ“’ The plan to improve communication through the development of a website and outreach programs.
πŸ‘ The strong support and unity within the Federation family.
Ep. 026 Meet Our New President Connie Polzin
Summary
Ryan Mannes, a conservation warden in Dodge County, Wisconsin, shares how he started his career as a conservation warden and what the job entails. He encourages anyone with an interest to apply and emphasizes that the work is extremely varied and seasonal.

Highlights
🌳 Ryan Mannes started his natural resources interest during college which led to a love for law enforcement and conservation warden work.
🚢 There is no typical week for a conservation warden, as the work varies seasonally and is very independent in nature.
πŸ“ The application process for becoming a conservation warden opens in spring and includes an initial application, interviews, and physical fitness assessment.
πŸš£β€β™€οΈ Conservation wardens enforce not only hunting and fishing, but also laws related to snowmobiling, boating, and ATV/UTV use. They also investigate accidents and collisions on land and water.
❀️ Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a conservation warden or doing a ride along can reach out to their local conservation warden or visit the DNR website for more information.
Ep. 025 What it's Like Being a WI Warden
Summary
Becoming a Wisconsin State Conservation Warden involves a comprehensive application process, including physical testing, interviews, and background checks.

https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WardenRecruitment

Highlights
🌲 Application window for the Conservation Warden team opens annually in April and closes in May.
πŸŽ“ No specific educational background is required; candidates from diverse backgrounds are welcome.
🏞 Passion for the outdoors and strong communication skills are essential qualities for potential wardens.
⏳ The hiring process is lengthy, with successful applicants likely to start employment in January of the following year.
πŸ™Œ High school students can prepare by gaining volunteer experience and involvement in community activities.
Ep. 024 The Proccess of Becoming a WI State Conservation Warden
Summary
The podcast discusses the importance of stakeholder group teamwork in conservation, focusing on the relationship between the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, as well as the need for inclusive conversations and decision-making regarding wildlife management.

Highlights
🌿 The value of stakeholder groups, such as the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, in providing diverse perspectives and ideas for conservation and wildlife management.
🦌 The significance of public lands and outdoor recreational opportunities in Wisconsin, and the need to appreciate and conserve these resources.
🐺 The complexities and controversies surrounding wolf management, including the challenges of delisting wolves and addressing depredation issues.
🌾 The role of the wildlife management plan and the need for effective implementation to address habitat suitability and population management.
🎯 The importance of continued collaborative discussions between stakeholder groups and the Department to find common ground on conservation and wildlife issues.
Ep. 023 Stakeholder Group Teamwork in Conservation
Welcoming newly appointed executive director Cody Kamrowski at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Highlights
πŸŽ‰ Cody Kamrowski, the new executive director for the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, discusses his background and passion for natural resources.
🌲 The organization’s focus on relevancy and the need to engage new user demographics in conservation efforts.
πŸ’° The challenge of addressing conservation funding issues, including engaging with other user groups for support.
🌍 The importance of building partnerships with businesses and industry to further conservation efforts in Wisconsin.
πŸ¦‰ The role of the affiliate model and grassroots structure in the organization’s mission and goals for the future.
Ep. 022 Welcoming Newly Appointed Executive Director Cody Kamrowski
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2024-02-27

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