LIVEThis American Land - Ruffed Grouse #2; Agrivoltaics; Clean Water from Farmlands; Beaver Corps; Right Whales
Ruffed Grouse #2 - The mesmerizing mating rituals of ruffed grouse used to be a common sound and sight in Appalachian forests. But changes in habitat, especially older forests, have made it more challenging for these iconic birds to mate, reproduce, and find a steady food supply. From Pennsylvania to Tennessee, we meet with scientists, foresters and landowners on how proactive measures can restore healthy habitat. It's not only good for grouse, but for songbirds, other wildlife, and humans. Agrivoltaics Yes, that is a herd of sheep under those solar panels! For centuries farmers and ranchers have had to be innovators in order to survive. "Agrivoltaics" combines agricultural production with solar power generation on the same plots of land. Solar panels are installed above or between crops and livestock, generating both energy and food. Correspondent Brad Hicks shows us how the concept is growing as more farming operations look for new, sustainable sources of revenue. Clean Water from Farmlands - A new generation of farming families in southern Oklahoma uses different farming methods to combat pollution caused by agricultural runoff. Their experimentation, like cover crops and no till planting, is making the environment better. There's very little soil disturbance, and they use far less fertilizer, helping the water stay much cleaner. This fourth generation of farmers are growing other diverse crops in the offseason, and doing different things with livestock. The Natural Resources Conservation Service helps find answers to farmers and ranchers' concerns... helping the people help their land. Beaver Corps - Communities across the country are learning to coexist with an animal that used to be considered a pest. The Beaver Corps is a national training program. In one Fort Collins, Colorado neighborhood, a beaver dam is now a welcome conservation feature. BeaverCorps Director Aaron Hall says nature's engineers efficiently build entire ecosystems, provide water filtration, refuge for other wildlife, and flood and drought protection. With some online training, you can join the Beaver Corps to help prevent wildlife conflicts. Right Whales - The U.S. Navy plays a critical role in protecting endangered species. Surveillance and communication work to warn ships when North Atlantic right whales are in the area, so they can slow down or alter their routes. Near real-time warnings keep ships, scientists and conservation groups aware at all times.
Series Website: http://www.thisamericanland.org
Recent and Upcoming Airings
11.211/16 12:00 pm