Best Contaminates Of Concern Podcasts (2025)

1
LTR - Ep 4 - Field Measurements vs Lab Analytics; The BEST Approach is Using BOTH! 20:02

7d ago20:02

20:02

During this episode we discuss the best approach is not using Field Measurements OR Lab Results, but instead using BOTH! It's important to use RELIABLE Field Measurements to monitor the cleanup or remediation work, to know when to send samples off for Third Party Lab Analytics, which are then Confirmatory Samples, confirming what you already know f…

1
LTR - Ep 3 - Absorbents 14:50

13d ago14:50

14:50

During this episode we discuss the role of Absorbents in the Cleanup or Remediation processes. Building upon the previous episode where we discussed the differences in Cleanup and Remediation, Absorbents can be utilized in both processes to assist in the Cleanup (moving or relocating) of the contaminate of concern and/or the actual Remediation (add…

1
LTR - Ep 2 - Cleanup vs Remediation 14:29

13d ago14:29

14:29

During this episode we discuss the differences between the industry terms Cleanup and Remediation. For the most part in the Remediation Industry, these terms are used interchangeably, however, they shouldn't be. They are very different! Here we discuss why they are not the same. This episode was sponsored by Hanby Environmental our ongoing Sponsor.…

1
LTR - Ep 1 - Introduction to LTR Podcast and LTR Host 7:03

13d ago7:03

7:03

During this first episode, we introduce the purpose of the new "Let's Talk Remediation" podcast being to discuss all things relating to the Remediation Industry. Also, we introduce Our Host Charles D. Fator and provide a little insight to his background. We also introduce Hanby Environmental as our first and ongoing primary Show Sponsor supporting …

1
From youth to adults: engaging our communities to learn about their water 42:23

27d ago42:23

42:23

This week we chat with Peggy Anesi, Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator for Illinois Extension in northern Illinois. Peggy brings a wealth of experience in environmental education and shares her experiences working to engage different audiences all about water. From Watershed Stewards to a Paddle and Learn program to youth education…

1
Water Economics: The Pricing Puzzle 44:54

1M ago44:54

44:54

In this episode of Everyday Environment, hosts Amy and Abigail explore the puzzle of water pricing with guest Margaret Schneemann, Water Resource Economics Specialist with Illinois Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant. From aging infrastructure and economic planning to affordability and policy decisions, Margaret helps piece together the many f…

1
Protecting our water supply with helicopters? How communities are tackling water challenges 51:52

1M ago51:52

51:52

While the City of Chicago and many of its surrounding communities have access to water from Lake Michigan, the rest of Northeast Illinois relies primarily on groundwater aquifers for all its drinking water. These groundwater aquifers provide a wide range of opportunities for drinking water…as well as a variety of challenges. Tune in as we talk to S…

1
Taking a systems-based approach to community water management 33:34

2M ago33:34

33:34

This week we chat with Kara Salazar from Purdue Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant about how communities approach sustainable development around their water resources. Kara discusses the challenges of managing stormwater, green infrastructure solutions like bioswales and permeable pavements, how you can become involved in learning more about …

1
Taking into consideration the next 100 years: the reversal of the Chicago River 53:38

2M ago53:38

53:38

The history books often referred to the reversal of the Chicago River as an engineering marvel, but how did they do it? Why did they do it? and Why is it important to learn about it? Join Phil Nicodemus from Urban Rivers as he discusses the history of the Chicago River and the historical and current work done on the Chicago River to support humans …

1
Rain gardens and nerding out over native plants 56:04

2M ago56:04

56:04

Join the Everyday Environment team as we chat with Layne Knoche, Stormwater Outreach Associate, to explore the importance of rain gardens and how they help manage stormwater, support biodiversity, and improve water quality. We chat about some good design tips and ideas, the basic make-up of a rain garden and spend some extra time really diving into…

1
Nutrient loss in our waterways: the role of agriculture 30:40

2M ago30:40

30:40

Everybody has a part to play in protecting the valuable resource that is water. So what is the part of farmers? As producers of our food, fiber, and fuel, farmers are essential to our economy, our plates, and our way of life. Learn from Rachel Curry about the options farmers have to protect water quality and the challenges they face in doing so. Ch…

1
A gauntlet for Carp: invasives species in our waterways 46:55

3M ago46:55

46:55

From the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, Illinois’ waters are incredible environmental and economic resources, supporting a diversity of plants and animals, providing drinking water for millions of people, and allowing for transportation and recreation. However, aquatic invasive species can threaten these resources. These organisms cause harm t…

1
Rain Check: Creative ways to use stormwater to your advantage 53:18

3M ago53:18

53:18

In this episode, we talk with Eliana Brown, Water Quality and Stormwater Specialist with University of Illinois Extension. Eliana explains how we can do simple things that improve lakes and rivers and why it's important to do so. This podcast complements Extension's Stormwater@Home video series. With Eliana, we define stormwater, explore the challe…

1
What you should know about contaminants of emerging concern 36:59

3M ago36:59

36:59

When people think about ‘contaminants of emerging concern’ in our waters, it sounds like a scary, complicated thing. But in truth, it’s not. There are a number of things in our everyday lives that can pollute our water – even medicine, clothing, and what we use to keep our homes safe and beautiful can become contaminants. In this podcast episode, w…

1
Science is not just for the professionals: RiverWatch and community science 39:46

3M ago39:46

39:46

Illinois RiverWatch is a statewide community science (i.e. citizen science) program that trains volunteers to monitor water quality in their local streams. Learn how volunteers across the state use small water bugs, called macroinvertebrates, to look at stream health. Check out the blog post on this topic for more information. Illinois RiverWatch: …

1
From raindrop to river: State Hydrologist explains watershed basics 36:22

3M ago36:22

36:22

Watersheds are everywhere, adjusting and reforming all the time - they are not static. Watersheds are a reflection of natural and human activities: as activities change so do watersheds as well as the waterways within them. Whatever happens upstream goes downstream. Hear from State Hydrologist and Interim Director of the Illinois State Water Survey…

1
Water connects us all: a season 2 preview 12:11

4M ago12:11

12:11

Preview what to expect from season two of Everyday Environment. Abigail, Erin, and Amy give listeners a peak behind the scenes of how the podcast is produced and what to expect in our upcoming season on water. Subscribe to our Newsletter Check out our Blog See the Everyday Environment ArchivesBy Abigail Garofalo, Amy Lefringhouse, Erin Garrett

1
Getting involved in climate work: find the solution that works for you 39:46

8M ago39:46

39:46

In the final episode of our Everyday Environment season focused on climate change, we chat with Duane Friend, Illinois Extension Climate Change Specialist to explore practical ways to get involved in climate action. Whether you're looking to make a difference in your own life or in your community, we discuss climate solutions that fit your lifestyl…

1
Coffee grounds are green: composting reduces methane and builds up soil 39:18

8M ago39:18

39:18

This week we welcome guests Sue Gasper and Gemini Bhalsod with Illinois Extension to chat about composting and how we can use this process to divert food waste from the landfill, where it often releases greenhouse gases as it decomposes, into backyard composts that reduce the greenhouse gases released. Join us to explore how to compost, its benefit…

1
Investigating solar energy and agriculture: agrivoltaics and climate change 38:53

8M ago38:53

38:53

This week we’re joined by Dennis Bowman, Extension Digital Agriculture Specialist with Illinois Extension. Our team was fascinated by our discussion with Dennis about agrivoltaics and University of Illinois’ major research project within this field. Discover what agrivoltaics is all about, why agricultural land is such an attractive target for sola…

1
Exploring carbon markets as part of emissions reduction goals 29:11

9M ago29:11

29:11

This week we’re joined by Sarah Sellars, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Sustainable Farm and Food Systems at South Dakota State University. We’re chatting with Sarah about agricultural carbon markets and their potential as one piece of the puzzle to meeting climate goals. Learn more on the blog. Resources to learn more: The Partner…

1
Cover crops, not mudslides: empowering youth on climate change. 42:54

9M ago42:54

42:54

Join us this week as we chat with Peggy Anesi about her career in empowering youth about climate change. By keeping it local and empowering them with realistic options for addressing climate change, we can build a citizenry that is equipped face the many challenges presented by our changing climate.By Abigail Garofalo, Amy Lefringhouse, Erin Garrett

1
It’s all about risk: how climate change increases our risk of health concerns and how we can adapt 42:23

9M ago42:23

42:23

This week we’re chatting with Elena Grossman from GTI Energy about how climate change is impacting us – our health and our communities – and what we can do about it. We’ll discuss existing health concerns that are exacerbated by climate change, leading to overall increased risk of health issues. Elena will break down how climate change affects diff…

1
Exploring the challenges facing pollinators 42:30

9M ago42:30

42:30

Join us as we talk with Brodie Dunn, Outreach Associate in Biodiversity and Pollinators for Illinois Extension, about how pollinators are expected to respond to climate change. Learn more on the blog. Resources to learn more: If you’d like to hear more from Brodie, check out his wildlife sound ID podcast “Voice of the Wild” Pollinator-friendly gard…

1
Will invasive species be helped or hindered by climate change? 41:45

10M ago41:45

41:45

This week we welcome Chris Evans to the podcast. Chris is an Extension Forestry and Research Specialist with Illinois Extension based in southern Illinois. We chat about what invasive species are, how their characteristics may make them more resilient to climate change, and what we can do to help slow their spread. Learn more on the blog. Resources…

1
Understanding soil as a system 41:10

10M ago41:10

41:10

This week we chat with Michelle Wander, Emeritus Soil Scientist in the Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences department at University of Illinois. We go belowground to explore the importance of soil health, threats to that health, and practices to mitigate negative impacts on soil. Learn more on the blog. Helpful resources for homeowners: So…

1
708 million tons of carbon storage: Urban Forests and climate change 34:42

10M ago34:42

34:42

This week we welcome Justin Vozzo to the podcast. Justin is an Extension Forestry Specialist with Illinois Extension based in Urbana, and he shares with us what an urban forest is and how they play a role in mitigating climate change. Learn more on the Everyday Environment Blog.By Abigail Garofalo, Amy Lefringhouse, Erin Garrett

1
Too Much of a Good Thing: A Plant’s Perspective on Climate Change 39:43

10M ago39:43

39:43

Join us as we chat with Karla Griesbaum, NREE Educator with Illinois Extension, about how plants are expected to respond to climate change. While plants may experience some short-term benefits, overall increased stress is expected for plants with our changing climate. Take a listen as we discuss all things plants and climate change! Learn more on t…

1
Shifting to a Silver Lining: Climate Expert Talks Climate Change Basics 52:52

10M ago52:52

52:52

Join us as we talk with Dr. Justin Schoof about the basics of climate change and what we are already seeing happen in Illinois. Justin is the Director of the School of Earth Systems and Sustainability at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. We’ll break down climate change, discuss current trends, and talk about what it all means for the future…

1
Welcome to the New Everyday Environment Podcast! 32:47

11M ago32:47

32:47

Welcome to the new Everyday Environment Podcast! Your hosts Abigail, Erin, and Amy are here to talk all about the switch from Spotlight on Natural Resources to a new podcast, Everyday Environment. But wait, there's more! No longer just a podcast, we have more learning opportunities for you, including a blog, webinars, and short videos. Take a liste…

1
PFAS: Understanding this Contaminant of Emerging Concern 29:46

12M ago29:46

29:46

Join us as we talk with Sarah Zack, Pollution Prevention Extension Specialist, about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. Commonly found in a wide variety of consumer products like non-stick cookware, cosmetics, and cleaners, PFAS are an emerging contaminant that has recently become newsworthy due to its widespread discovery in waterbodies…

1
Beneath the Surface: Exploring Illinois' Freshwater Mussels 23:36

1y ago23:36

23:36

Clam, Mollusk, Mussel, or Muscle? Let's unravel the mystery! Join us in this podcast episode as we delve into the captivating world of Illinois freshwater mussels. Whether you're gliding along a river or strolling by a stream, the remarkable underwater life beneath the surface may surprise you. These unsung heroes play a vital role in purifying our…

1
Tips for your home during Electrical Safety Month 24:07

1y ago24:07

24:07

Join us as we chat with Kerri Taylor from Safe Electricity about tips for electrical safety month. We cover electrical safety tips for our homes and yards, as well as tips to talk about with your kids.By Abigail Garofalo, Amy Lefringhouse, Erin Garrett

1
Should we participate in "No Mow May"? (Hint: look at the ecology) 39:50

1y ago39:50

39:50

These Illinoisians and ecology-minded podcast hosts discuss the nuances of No Mow May and why it may not be the best fit for Illinois. Erin, Amy, and Abigail talk about the true goals behind No May May and how Illinois residents can achieve those goals when considering the ecology of our landscapes. Check out our friends at Good Growing and their b…

1
Research Bite: University of Illinois Students Discuss Bird Collisions 24:10

1y ago24:10

24:10

Join the Spotlight on Natural Resources Podcast team for a Research Bite! Within each Research Bite segment, we delve into groundbreaking research conducted at University of Illinois, offering listeners exclusive insights into the innovative discoveries and advancements shaping the future of applied science. During this episode, we hear from the st…

1
13 and 17 is Very Weird: Periodical Cicadas with Kacie Athey 21:56

1y ago21:56

21:56

The cicadas are emerging, times two! Join us as we explore the upcoming periodical cicada emergence in Illinois with entomologist Kacie Athey. In this episode, we discuss the 17-year and 13-year life cycle of these insects, their impact on the local ecosystem, and what Illinois residents can expect during this natural event. Visit these sites to le…

1
Tornado Trends 43:10

1y ago43:10

43:10

Dive into the swirling world of tornado trends in Illinois with our latest podcast episode. Join us as we explore how a tornado forms, the recent patterns of tornado occurrences in the Prairie State, and what you can do to improve your resiliency to tornado hazards. Come away with a deeper understanding of this powerful natural phenomenon. Learn mo…

1
Early Spring Wildlife 28:10

1+ y ago28:10

28:10

Early spring is a wonderful time to view wildlife in Illinois. Woodcock, one of the earliest of the migrating birds, return to the state and start displaying to attract mates and set up territories. Mole salamanders will head to breeding pools, even when ice is still on. Crawfish frogs and spring peepers can be heard in full chorus on warm nights. …

1
Phenology as a Retirement Hobby 45:47

1+ y ago45:47

45:47

Ever think about what will captivate you in retirement? You don’t want to just sit around but you don’t want to over-commit now that you have your own time. Phenology could be a retirement hobby. Join Peggy Doty to talk about how phenology offers an activity for your mind and just enough commitment to wake up interested in this new idea. Phenology …

1
The Northern Saw-Whet Owl 37:15

1+ y ago37:15

37:15

Hiding in the thickets of our Illinois woodland habitat, the Northern Saw-whet Owl is a small and secretive owl species that migrates through our area. During this podcast, University of Illinois Avian Lab Manager and Field Coordinator, Mike Avara, joins us to share research the university is doing on the Northern Saw-whet Owl. Find out why these o…

1
Providing Natural and Artificial Homes for Bats 28:19

1+ y ago28:19

28:19

Join us this week as we chat with Dr. Joy O'Keefe about bats of Illinois and what we can do to support them. Bats are essential to a healthy ecosystem, as they eat insects that are pests to trees, crops, and us. Most bats use trees as their daytime roosts during spring, summer, and fall. If you have good places for bats to hunt for food, how do you…

1
Invasive Alert: Spotted Lanternfly 45:48

1+ y ago45:48

45:48

On this special edition of Spotlight on Natural Resources, hear from Scott Schirmer, State Plant Regulatory Official with Illinois Department of Agriculture, and Chris Evans, Forestry Extension and Research Specialist with University of Illinois Extension as we talk about Spotted Lanternfly. Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive insect that has been co…

1
Creepy Carp and Sea Lamprey, Aquatic invasives in Lake Michigan (the Halloween episode) 37:12

1+ y ago37:12

37:12

Join us this week as we chat with Aquatic Invasives Species Specialist Katie O'Reilly about all things aquatic invasives in Lake Michigan. We take a spooky look at what kinds of species are aquatic invaders and what we can do to combat invasive species in our waterways. Illinois Indiana Sea Grant Aquatic Invasive Species Choose Copi The Sea Lamprey…

1
September is National Preparedness Month: Generator Safety, Supply Kits & CO Detectors 43:23

1+ y ago43:23

43:23

September is National Preparedness Month. Kerri Taylor joins us from Illinois Safe Electricity to teach us about how we can better prepare our homes, families, workplaces, and communities in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. Focusing on storm preparedness, we discuss in-depth how to prepare an emergency supply kit, how to choose and saf…

1
Exploring Illinois’s Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy 24:16

2y ago24:16

24:16

With high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus entering our waterways and making their way to the Gulf of Mexico, Illinois is taking action to address nutrient loss and hold those nutrients in place. Rachel Curry and Nicole Haverback are the boots on the ground for this project in Illinois, and they join us on the podcast to take about the NLRS and wh…

1
Drought and Extreme Weather Resiliency 35:17

2y ago35:17

35:17

With droughts and drastic weather occurring in Illinois, how do we keep our landscapes resilient? Extension Stormwater Specialist, Eliana Brown, joins the podcast to discuss how we can help build healthy landscapes in this extreme weather. Links mentioned: Drought Monitor Website Red Oak Rain Garden Native Plant Resources…

1
Corn Sweat: a Midwest phenomenon 27:01

2y ago27:01

27:01

Corn sweat - an interesting Midwest phenomenon that happens during the summer months. Find out what corn sweat really is and how it affects our weather, wildlife and other plants. Duane Friend, Illinois Master Naturalist Coordinator and Climate Specialist, joins us during this episode. Hint: An acre of corn can “sweat” up to 4,000 gallons of water …

1
Value of Biodiversity 27:40

2y ago27:40

27:40

Biodiversity - such a buzzword these days. But what is biodiversity and why does everyone seem to be talking about it? Extension Educator Abigail Garofalo will break down this scientific concept and give you insights into the biodiversity crisis and what you can do about it.By Erin Garrett and Amy Lefringhouse with Guest Abigail Garofalo

1
Nature at Night 34:49

2y ago34:49

34:49

Don’t count out nighttime when it comes to exploring. Each season brings a different “night” whether it be the long winter nights with clear skies or the late sunsets in summer, there is always something to discover in nature at night. In fact, in terms of wildlife, over 60% of our mammals are nocturnal. Extension Natural Resources Educator Amy Lef…

1
Spring Ephemerals 14:48

2y ago14:48

14:48

Spring is here, and one of the best places to enjoy the season is hiking through a forest. In spring you can find the forest floor bursting with life. Many of the spring-blooming flowers you see when out on a hike are from a group of plants called spring ephemerals. Today we chat with Erin Garrett to learn more about these plants and why they’re so…

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