This episode of the Big Outdoors is a must-listen for anyone interested in Ohio's wildlife. Join Chip Hart as he sits down with Brett Beatty, a wildlife biologist with the Division of Wildlife, to discuss the latest on a black bear that's been spotted in the Cincinnati area. This bear's behavior is unusual, as it's been hanging out in Pierce Township, a suburb just outside the city, and hasn't been bothering any livestock.

Brett shares his expertise on the bear's movements and habits, explaining that it's likely the bear is enjoying the area's abundant food supply and may be looking for a mate. He also discusses the importance of controlled hunts and how they help maintain a quality experience for hunters while ensuring public safety and access to public lands. The Division of Wildlife has released permits for controlled hunts, including dove hunts, which allow hunters to spread out and minimize crowding.

The conversation also touches on the potential for EHD, a disease that affects white-tailed deer, and how the Division is working to prevent its spread. Brett shares a personal experience of encountering black vultures preying on a fawn, highlighting the importance of coexisting with wildlife.

If you're interested in learning more about Ohio's wildlife and the efforts of the Division of Wildlife, tune in to this episode to hear Brett's insights and experiences.

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This episode of the Big Outdoors is a must-listen for anyone interested in Ohio's fish hatcheries and the efforts of the state's wildlife department to manage and conserve its aquatic resources. Join Chip Hart as he chats with Joe Conroy, the Wildlife Program Manager for the Division of Wildlife, about the ins and outs of Ohio's fish hatcheries, from the oldest one, which dates back to the 1890s, to the newest additions.

Ohio has six hatcheries, each with its own unique purpose, but all working towards the same goal: increasing opportunities for anglers across the state. From stocking fish in local lakes and reservoirs to managing populations and habitats, the state's wildlife department is dedicated to ensuring a healthy and thriving fishery. This episode delves into the specifics of Ohio's hatchery system, including the different species of fish being raised and the various locations where they're stocked.

Joe Conroy shares insights into the process of determining which waters need stocking and how the department decides where to stock fish. He also discusses the importance of surveys and data collection in understanding the health of fish populations and making informed decisions about conservation efforts. With a focus on the state's inland lakes and reservoirs, this episode provides a fascinating look at the work being done to preserve Ohio's aquatic resources.

If you're interested in learning more about Ohio's fish hatcheries and the efforts to conserve its fish populations, tune in to this episode of the Big Outdoors. Join Chip Hart and Joe Conroy as they discuss the ins and outs of fish management and conservation in Ohio.

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The Hidden World of Freshwater Muscles

In Ohio, there's a fascinating but often overlooked world of freshwater muscles that are struggling to survive. These tiny creatures play a crucial role in the ecosystem, but their populations are dwindling due to habitat loss and other environmental factors. This episode of the show delves into the world of freshwater muscles, exploring their unique life cycle and the efforts being made to protect and conserve them.

Joining the conversation is John Navarro, the Executive Administrator of Fish Management and Research for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. He shares insights into the complex life cycle of freshwater muscles, which involve attaching themselves to fish hosts to complete their reproduction. Navarro also discusses the challenges these creatures face, including habitat loss and the need for specific fish hosts to survive.

The conversation also touches on the new book, "The Naturalist Guide to the Freshwater Muscles of Ohio," co-authored by Michael Hogarth. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the 85 species of freshwater muscles found in Ohio, including their habitats, life histories, and distribution. Navarro highlights the importance of this guide in helping the public understand and appreciate these often-overlooked creatures.

If you're interested in learning more about the fascinating world of freshwater muscles and the efforts being made to protect them, tune in to this episode to hear John Navarro's insights and learn about the new book that's available on Amazon.

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