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    Manage the Wild

    Welcome to Manage the Wild podcast! In this series, we'll be exploring the fascinating world of wildlife management, covering everything from habitat restoration and predator control to population management and conservation biology. Our expert guests will share their insights and experiences on a range of topics, offering valuable information and practical advice for anyone interested in wildlife management. We'll also be discussing the latest research and innovations in the field, as well as the challenges and controversies surrounding wildlife management today. I'll throw in a story or two about my experiences working with wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife professional or just starting out, this podcast is for you. Join me as I delve into the complex and rewarding world of wildlife management!
    enNick Madsen298 Episodes

    Episodes (298)

    277: Elk Trapping and Winter Storms

    277: Elk Trapping and Winter Storms
    In this conversation, Nick Madsen discusses his experiences trapping elk for disease testing in Utah. He shares the challenges of working in winter conditions and the consequences of not wearing appropriate clothing. The purpose of trapping elk is to test for diseases such as brucellosis and chronic wasting disease, as well as collect data on genetics and interconnectedness. The focus is primarily on adult cows, as they are more likely to carry diseases. The conversation also touches on tagging and monitoring elk bulls, as well as the methods used for trapping elk. Cold weather poses additional challenges for trapping elk, such as the need for water and the impact of low temperatures.
    Takeaways
    • Trapping elk for disease testing is an important practice in Utah to monitor for diseases like brucellosis and chronic wasting disease.
    • Data collected from trapped elk includes genetic information, interconnectedness, and parasite loads.
    • The focus of disease testing is primarily on adult cows, as they are more likely to carry diseases.
    • Elk bulls are also tagged and monitored for data on dispersal and movement.
    • Trapping elk in cold weather presents challenges such as the need for water and the impact of low temperatures.

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    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 16, 2024

    276: Turkeys Causing Problems

    276: Turkeys Causing Problems
    In this episode, Nick Madsen discusses the issue of turkey depredation, where turkeys cause damage and nuisance in urban and rural areas. He explains the types of damage turkeys can cause, such as destroying bird feeders, picking berries clean, and damaging roofs and railings. Nick also shares his experience with trapping and relocating turkeys to manage the problem. He emphasizes the importance of removing food sources to encourage turkeys to leave. Additionally, he discusses the challenges of trapping and attracting more birds, as well as methods to deter turkeys. The episode concludes with a reminder that turkeys will move on once the food source is removed.
    Takeaways
    • Turkeys can cause damage and nuisance by destroying bird feeders, picking berries clean, and damaging roofs and railings.
    • Trapping and relocating turkeys can be an effective method to manage turkey depredation.
    • Removing food sources is crucial in encouraging turkeys to leave an area.
    • Methods such as fireworks and cracker shells can be used to deter turkeys, but approval from wildlife agencies is necessary.
    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 12, 2024

    275: Elk Management and Unit Boundaries

    275: Elk Management and Unit Boundaries
    This conversation discusses the challenges faced by biologists in managing elk populations. It explores topics such as elk migration and feeding, counting and tagging elk, challenges of splitting elk units, managing tags and objectives, public vs private land, overcrowding and harvesting issues, boundary challenges and Idaho elk, classifying animals and movement, and the complexity of biologists' decisions.
    Takeaways
    • Elk migration patterns can be unpredictable, with yearlings often leaving feed rows and migrating down canyons.
    • Counting and tagging elk can be challenging when elk from different units congregate in a single area.
    • Splitting elk units for management purposes can be difficult, especially when collared elk are concentrated in one unit.
    • Managing tags and objectives becomes complex when elk populations are not evenly distributed across units.
    • The distribution of public and private land can impact elk management decisions and hunting opportunities.
    • Overcrowding and a lack of elk to harvest can occur when elk are concentrated in a small area.
    • Boundary challenges and elk migration from neighboring states can complicate elk management efforts.
    • Classifying animals and understanding their movement patterns is crucial for effective management.
    • Biologists face complex decisions and considerations when managing elk populations, and their choices may not always be straightforward.
    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 11, 2024

    274: Bighorn Sheep Nursery Facility in Utah

    274: Bighorn Sheep Nursery Facility in Utah
    A nursery facility is being established in Utah to protect and grow a population of bighorn sheep. The facility will be located on private land and aims to create a disease-free population that can be used for repopulation efforts. The project was initiated due to a die-off of bighorn sheep on Antelope Island. Concerns about privatization and limited public access have been raised, but the project has received funding and support from various groups. The goal is to preserve and expand the bighorn sheep population, which is currently declining.
    Takeaways
    • A nursery facility is being established in Utah to protect and grow a population of bighorn sheep.
    • The facility will be located on private land and aims to create a disease-free population for repopulation efforts.
    • Concerns about privatization and limited public access have been raised.
    • The project has received funding and support from various groups.

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    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 11, 2024

    273: Supreme Court and Pebble Mine

    273: Supreme Court and Pebble Mine
    The conversation discusses the recent Supreme Court decision regarding the Pebble Mine in Bristol Bay. The mine, proposed by a Canadian company, has faced approval and rejection multiple times. The main concern is the potential environmental impact of the mine's disposal sites and the discharge into Bristol Bay's waters. Native tribes in the area are strongly opposed to the mine, as it could harm their livelihoods and the ecosystem. The EPA rejected the mine due to the high risk, and the Supreme Court upheld this decision. The conversation explores the balance between business interests and environmental protection, ultimately highlighting the importance of preserving Bristol Bay for future generations.
    Takeaways
    • The Pebble Mine in Bristol Bay has faced a long approval process, with the EPA ultimately rejecting it due to the potential environmental risks.
    • The mine's disposal sites and discharge into Bristol Bay's waters are major concerns, as they could harm the ecosystem and wildlife.
    • Native tribes in the area strongly oppose the mine, as it could impact their livelihoods and the pristine nature of Bristol Bay.
    • The Supreme Court recently upheld the EPA's decision, preventing the mine from moving forward.

    Supreme Court Denies Alaska's Bid to Revive the Copper and Gold Pebble Mine Proposal Blocked by EPA (usnews.com)

    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 09, 2024

    272: Awkard Wildlife Job Interviews

    272: Awkard Wildlife Job Interviews
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses the process of applying for a biologist or wildlife position in the State of Utah. He shares his personal experiences and insights into the hiring process, including the initial steps of finding the position and ranking one's experience. Nick also highlights the importance of justifying experience with public and private organizations and the challenges of the interview process. He explains how pre-interview questions and scenarios are used to assess candidates and emphasizes the significance of ranking in the final selection. Nick concludes by comparing the state's promotion process with that of the private sector.
    Takeaways
    • The first step in applying for a wildlife position is finding the desired position and ranking one's experience.
    • Justifying experience with public and private organizations is crucial in the application process.
    • The interview process for wildlife positions can be awkward and challenging, with candidates having to answer specific questions and scenarios.
    • Ranking plays a significant role in the final selection, and even knowing the interviewers may not guarantee success.
    • The promotion process in the state sector differs significantly from the private sector, requiring candidates to compete with numerous applicants.

     

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    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 05, 2024

    271: Dowsing Rods and Elk

    271: Dowsing Rods and Elk
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses the use of dowsing rods in wildlife management and shares his personal experiences with encountering a dowsing rod user. He also explores the unconventional methods people employ in wildlife management and highlights the fascination of wildlife stories. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of storytelling and selling ideas in the field of wildlife management.
    Takeaways
    • Dowsing rods, an ancient practice used to find water and other substances, have also been employed in wildlife management.
    • Unconventional methods, such as dowsing rods, are sometimes used by individuals to locate wildlife or make management decisions.
    • Wildlife management often involves storytelling and selling ideas to the public, as every action in the field requires convincing others of its importance.
    • Collecting and sharing wildlife stories is crucial for preserving experiences and lessons learned in the field.

     

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    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 04, 2024

    270: Two Cougar Situations, Creates Two Different Crowd Reactions

    270: Two Cougar Situations, Creates Two Different Crowd Reactions

    In this episode of the Manage the Wild podcast, host Nick Madsen discusses two different cougar incidents that resulted in the euthanization of the cougars. The first incident involved a cougar prowling an urban area and causing problems for residents. The cougar was trapped and released but ultimately had to be euthanized due to its poor health. The second incident occurred when a cougar was found under a deck in an urban area. Despite efforts to release it, the cougar exhibited abnormal behavior and had to be euthanized. Madsen highlights the importance of managing crowds in wildlife situations.

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    Manage the Wild
    enJanuary 02, 2024

    269: Diverse Duties of a Wildlife Biologist

    269: Diverse Duties of a Wildlife Biologist
    In this episode, the host discusses the sighting of grizzly bears in eastern Montana after a hundred years. He also talks about the diverse work of wildlife biologists and the challenges they face. The conversation then shifts to the survival rates of fawns in Utah and the impact of feeding on their survival.
    Takeaways
    • Grizzly bears are expanding their population and moving into new territories.
    • Working as a wildlife biologist involves diverse tasks, including trapping elk, chopping ice, and protecting wildlife in trap facilities.
    • The life of a biologist is challenging and unpredictable, with tasks ranging from feeding elk to darting moose.
    • Survival rates of fawns in Utah vary across different regions, with feeding programs showing positive results in some areas.

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 28, 2023

    268: Blue Tongue and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease for Deer and Elk

    268: Blue Tongue and Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease for Deer and Elk
    In this podcast episode, the host discusses the topic of Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) and its distinction from Blue Tongue disease. The conversation covers the background and introduction of the topic, the symptoms, and effects of EHD, the spread and transmission of the disease, the seasonal impact on EHD when to worry about animal deaths, and the separation of EHD and Blue Tongue.
    Takeaways
    • Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is a viral disease that affects ruminant animals, particularly white-tailed deer.
    • Symptoms of EHD include lethargy, disorientation, lameness, excessive salivation, foaming at the mouth, blood discharge from the nose, and sores on the nose and mouth.
    • Gnats and mosquitoes primarily spread EHD, and its transmission decreases in colder weather.
    • Animal deaths in late summer and early fall may be attributed to EHD, but it is not a major concern during winter.
    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 27, 2023

    267: Hunters should strive to be the best they can be for the animals they hunt.

    267: Hunters should strive to be the best they can be for the animals they hunt.
    In this episode, Nick shares a personal experience of encountering injured wildlife and emphasizes the importance of taking ethical shots as hunters. He discusses the trend of long-range shooting and advocates for getting closer to the animals for a more ethical hunting experience. The host also raises concerns about the spread of diseases among wildlife and the need for proper management. The episode serves as a reminder to be mindful of the impact of hunting practices on animal welfare.
    Takeaways
    • Taking ethical shots is crucial for the welfare of wildlife.
    • Long-range shooting has become a trend, but getting closer to the animals is a more ethical approach.
    • Disease management and prevention are important considerations in wildlife conservation.
    • Hunters should strive to be the best they can be for the animals they hunt.

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 23, 2023

    266: Stop Paying Lawyers, Pay Ranchers Instead

    266: Stop Paying Lawyers, Pay Ranchers Instead
    In this episode, the host shares his personal experiences encountering wolves in Alaska and discusses the recent introduction of wolves in Colorado. He reflects on how his perspective on wolves has changed over time, from being anti-wolf to recognizing their place in the ecosystem. The host emphasizes the importance of finding common ground between the agricultural industry and wolf conservation, suggesting that ranchers should be compensated for any losses caused by wolves. He advocates for collaboration and support for ranchers to ensure the coexistence of wolves and agriculture.
    Takeaways
    • Encountering wolves in their natural habitat can be a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience.
    • The introduction of wolves in Colorado has sparked discussions and debates about their impact on the ecosystem and the agricultural industry.
    • Perspectives on wolves can change over time as individuals gain more knowledge and understanding of their role in the ecosystem.
    • Finding common ground between the agricultural industry and wolf conservation is crucial for promoting coexistence and minimizing conflicts.

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 21, 2023

    265: Colorado Wolf Reintroduction Has Begun

    265: Colorado Wolf Reintroduction Has Begun

    Colorado's Gray Wolf Reintroduction Program

    • Five gray wolves were released in Colorado's Rocky Mountains on Monday as part of a voter-approved reintroduction program.
    • The program, embraced in the state's mostly Democratic urban corridor, was opposed in conservative rural areas where ranchers worry about livestock attacks.
    • The wolves were set free from crates in a Grand County location kept undisclosed to protect predators.
    • The release marks the start of the most ambitious wolf reintroduction effort in the U.S. in almost three decades.
    • The wolves were set free from crates in a Grand County location that state officials kept undisclosed to protect the predators.
    • The wolves are expected to fill one of the last remaining major gaps in the western U.S. for the species.
    • The reintroduction, voted for in a 2020 ballot measure, has sharpened divides between rural and urban residents.
    • The wolf-naming contest has started, but ranchers in the Rocky Mountains where the releases will occur are anxious.

     

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 19, 2023

    264 Balancing Act: The Emotional Strain of Wildlife Management

    264 Balancing Act: The Emotional Strain of Wildlife Management
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses the challenges of working with wildlife and feeling responsible for their well-being. He shares personal experiences where he felt the pressure to make decisions and take action, even when it wasn't his responsibility. Nick also highlights the importance of not getting too involved in the process and the need to make good calls for the benefit of oneself, the community, and the team.
    Takeaways
    • Working with wildlife can lead to feeling responsible for their well-being, even when it's not your responsibility.
    • It's important to not get too involved in the process and avoid burnout.
    • Wildlife management situations can be high-pressure and unpredictable.
    • Making good calls in wildlife situations requires considering the bigger picture and working with a team.

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 19, 2023

    263: How I Would Respond To a Bear Call

    263: How I Would Respond To a Bear Call
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses how to respond to unexpected wildlife situations, specifically focusing on bear encounters. He emphasizes the importance of communication and coordination with the team when responding to safety issues. Madsen also highlights the need to consider public safety and the potential scrutiny of decisions made during these situations. He provides tips for preventing bear-human conflicts, securing cabins and homes, and handling encounters with black bears. The episode concludes with a reminder to contact a biologist for assistance in wildlife situations.
    Takeaways
    • Effective communication and coordination are crucial when responding to unexpected wildlife situations.
    • Public safety should be the top priority when dealing with bear encounters.
    • Preventing bear-human conflicts involves storing food properly, making noise in bear areas, and staying away from animal carcasses.
    • Securing cabins and homes can help reduce bear-related issues, such as securing trash and using deterrents like bear mats and motion-activated lights.

     

    #hunters #hunting #hunter #hunt #huntinglife #huntingseason #outdoors #deerhunting #deer #wildlife #outdoorlife #waterfowl

     

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 15, 2023

    262: Get Your Kids Involved

    262: Get Your Kids Involved
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares a personal story about a necropsy experience and reflects on the importance of exposing people to different aspects of wildlife. He then discusses the observation of an injured elk and the decision to euthanize it. Nick also talks about interacting with elementary school students during a wildlife feeding activity and the educational opportunities it provides. He shares the discovery of the elk's emaciated condition and the subsequent discussion with the teacher. Finally, Nick emphasizes the significance of early exposure to wildlife and encourages involvement in wildlife conservation.
    Takeaways
    • Exposing people to different aspects of wildlife can help them gain a better understanding of the realities and challenges of wildlife management.
    • Interacting with wildlife and witnessing their conditions can be an important educational experience for children.
    • Early exposure to wildlife can foster a sense of empathy and appreciation for nature, even if individuals do not pursue careers in the wildlife field.
    • Encouraging involvement in wildlife conservation through volunteering and supporting conservation groups can make a positive impact on wildlife populations.

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      #hunters #hunting #hunter #hunt #huntinglife #huntingseason #outdoors #deerhunting #deer #wildlife #outdoorlife #waterfowl

    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 14, 2023

    261: Justifying Actions Does Not Make it Right

    261: Justifying Actions Does Not Make it Right
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses the concept of justifying wrong actions and the importance of transparency in wildlife management. He starts by sharing the story of Francis Tugun Crowley, a criminal who justified his actions even in the face of imminent danger. Nick then relates this to the illegal moving of wildlife by state and federal agencies in the past. He emphasizes the need for oversight and pushback to ensure ethical wildlife management. Nick also highlights the importance of trust between stakeholders and the negative consequences of a lack of communication and transparency. He concludes by advocating for open and transparent processes in wildlife management.
    Takeaways
    • People often find ways to justify their wrong actions, even when faced with the consequences.
    • State and federal wildlife agencies have historically engaged in the illegal moving of wildlife, justifying their actions.
    • Oversight and pushback are important in ensuring ethical wildlife management.
    • Trust between stakeholders is crucial for effective wildlife management.
    • Lack of communication and transparency can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings.
    • Open and transparent processes are necessary to avoid the need for justifying actions after the fact.
     
     

    Carnegie, Dale, 1888-1955. (2009). How to win friends and influence people. New York :Simon & Schuster,

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 13, 2023

    Episode-260: Ewe #28

    Episode-260:  Ewe #28

    In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares his experience at a quarantine facility where a group of bighorn sheep were infected with a disease called mycoplasma ovipneumoniae. He discusses the purpose of the study and the decision to euthanize the infected animals. Nick becomes attached to one particular ewe, number 28, and closely monitors her progression of the disease. He reflects on the sad reality of wildlife diseases and the challenges they pose for wildlife managers. The episode highlights the impact of diseases like brucellosis and chronic wasting disease on wildlife populations. Takeaways Diseases like mycoplasma ovipneumoniae present significant challenges for wildlife managers. Some bighorn sheep populations have 'super spreaders' that continue to shed the disease and reinfect the population. The disease can cause ewes to abort their fetuses, leading to population decline. Observing the impact of disease on wildlife can create a deeper understanding and empathy for the animals. #hunters #hunting #hunter #hunt #huntinglife #huntingseason #outdoors #deerhunting #deer #wildlife #outdoorlife #waterfowl

     

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 11, 2023

    259: Nutritional Ecology for Elk and Mule Deer

    259: Nutritional Ecology for Elk and Mule Deer
    Summary
    In this episode, host Nick Madsen explores the field of nutritional ecology and its importance in understanding animal behavior and body size differences. He discusses the role of dietary preferences and nutritional requirements in animals, as well as the impact of foraging behavior and vigilance. Madsen also examines seasonal variations in grazing and browsing, and how individual choices can significantly affect body size. He highlights the importance of summer calf survival and individual decisions in determining success. Overall, nutritional ecology provides valuable insights into the relationship between animals and their environment.
     
    Takeaways
    • Nutritional ecology is the science of studying the relationship between animals and their environment through their nutritional interactions.
    • Dietary preferences and nutritional requirements vary among animals, and individual choices play a significant role in body size differences.
    • Foraging behavior and vigilance impact the amount of time animals can spend feeding.
    • Seasonal variations in grazing and browsing affect the types of plants animals consume.
    • The survival and growth of summer calves are crucial factors in female body fat levels.
    • Individual decisions and choices greatly influence an animal's success and body size.
    • Understanding nutritional ecology provides valuable insights into animal behavior and the impact of the environment on their well-being.

    Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 07, 2023

    258: I wish My Stocks increased like Lesser Snow Geese

    258: I wish My Stocks increased like Lesser Snow Geese
    Summary: The conversation discusses the issue of habitat destruction and overgrazing by lesser snow geese in the Hudson Bay area. The population of these geese has grown significantly, leading to the destruction of 35% of their habitat. Researchers have tried various methods to control the population, including liberalizing the harvest and increasing hunting seasons. However, the problem persists due to factors such as increased food availability, climate change, and lack of natural predators. The responsibility for managing this issue lies with the Canadian, US, and Mexican governments. Various solutions have been proposed, but they are limited by regulations under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
    Takeaways
    • The population of lesser snow geese has grown significantly, leading to habitat destruction and overgrazing.
    • Efforts to control the population through liberalized harvest and increased hunting seasons have had limited success.
    • Factors such as increased food availability, climate change, and lack of natural predators contribute to the problem.
    • The responsibility for managing this issue lies with the Canadian, US, and Mexican governments.  Final Environmental Impact Statement on Light Goose Management: Questions and Answers (fws.gov)

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    Manage the Wild
    enDecember 06, 2023