#320 | Fire in the Forest with Jared Elm of the Ruffed Grouse Society

Birdshot Podcast

On this episode of the Birdshot Podcast with chat Jared Elm of the Ruffed Grouse Society. Jared discusses his new role as state coordinator with the NRCS offices and shares insights into the expanding conservation delivery staff. The conversation dives deep into the impact of recent wildfires in Northern Minnesota, particularly in grouse habitats, and their containment efforts. Jared speaks about the history of fire in the Upper Great Lakes, from the native tribes' use of fire to modern prescribed burns, and how these practices benefit wildlife like grouse and woodcock. The episode also covers recent successes in conservation efforts, private landowner initiatives, and what it's like to hunt with bird dogs. Jared's expertise offers a nuanced understanding of fire's role in forest management and habitat creation.

02:22 Guest's Role and Organizational Growth

04:23 Wildfires in Northern Minnesota

08:08 Impact of Budworm on Forests

13:16 Forest Regeneration Post-Fire

19:25 Historical Use of Fire in Forest Management

31:17 Understanding Patchiness in Aspen Harvests

32:00 Fire's Role in Forest Diversity

32:36 Thinking Like a Fire in Timber Harvesting

34:39 Benefits of Fire for Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock

37:11 Forest Management and Habitat Creation

40:41 Private Landowner Opportunities

42:50 Bird Dogs and Hunting Adventures

43:29 Spring Conditions and Logging

48:59 Hunting Trips and Dog Training

55:21 Ruffed Grouse Society Initiatives

READ | Prescribed Burning in Forest Management in the Upper Great Lakes by Jared Elm

FOLLOW | @ruffedgrousesociety

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