Mark Fraley Podcast Mark Fraley Podcast

Remember when the NFL draft occurred at Riverfront Park in Downtown Nashville  and several ornamental Japanese Cherry Trees were to be removed to accommodate the stage for this production? The trees in Nashville can not speak for themselves.  And, with the dramatic and sometimes unwieldy growth and development pressures in Nashville it is important to … Continue reading "Jim Gregory, Executive Director, Nashville Tree Conservation Corps an Update (Episode 101)"

It  has now become commonplace to hear scientists  express concern for loss of habitat for wildlife.  This is true across the broad spectrum of plants and animals.  Much attention has been placed upon the decrease in population  of important pollinator species such as bees, butterflies and moths.  This loss  has been caused by many factors such … Continue reading "Interview with Monika Pretz, PhD, Staff Biologist & Pollinator Program Leader, Tennessee Environmental Council (Episode 102)"

Each year the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association (TRPA) recognizes one or more persons with the Fellow Award.  This is presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to the Parks and Recreation Profession. Our guest today is Michael Gorham, the 2023 TPRA Fellow.   Mike served as President of TRPA in 2001-2002,  at which … Continue reading "Interview with 2023 TRPA Fellow Award Winner, Michael Gorham (Episode 103)"

There is a growing movement of concerned citizens which is  encouraging  people and communities to be more thoughtful about how they manage their home landscapes.  Encouraging the reduction of turf grass and exotic ornamentals and encouraging the use of native plants. The Middle Tennessee Chapter of Wild Ones is a group which has this as their … Continue reading "Interview with Richard Hitt, President, Wild Ones, Middle Tennessee Chapter (Episode 104)"

Our guest today is Aaron Browning, recently installed President of the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association.  A native of eastern Kentucky and former college tennis player, Aaron serves as Deputy Director of the City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department. TRPA is the leading professional organization for persons working in the field of Parks and … Continue reading "Interview with Aaron Browning, President, Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association, Deputy Director of P&R, City of Knoxville (Episode 105)"

Now retired after decades of distinguished  service to the Tennessee State Parks,  Murray Crow sits down with Mark and shares memories of his remarkable parks experience. Beginning with his schooling at UT Martin,  continuing through postings at parks throughout the state, both smaller parks and resort parks and ending with many years at central office … Continue reading "Murray Crow Interview , Memories of Decades of Service to Tennessee State Parks (Episode 106)"