Conservation Starters

Thurston Conservation District
  • 5.0 (15)
  • NATURAL SCIENCES
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Conservation Starters is a podcast created by the Thurston Conservation District. This series is dedicated to empowering Thurston County residents to steward our shared natural resources. Through thoughtful conversations with TCD staff, community partners, and community members we explore a program or issue related to the work of the Conservation District and how our community can engage with us and our staff.

  1. 15H AGO

    Strengthening Local Food Systems in Thurston County – A New USDA Meat Processing Facility

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters, guest host Sarah Moorehead, sits down with Thurston County Commissioner Carolina Mejia, Thurston County Commissioner Wayne Fournier, Aslan Meade from Thurston Economic Development Council, and Jennifer Colvin from Colvin Ranch to discuss new pathways to strengthening our local food infrastructure. In Thurston County, our farms and ranches are more than just part of the landscape, they are part of who we are. They feed our families, steward our natural resources, and sustain a way of life rooted in connection to the land. But for years, local producers have faced a growing challenge: limited access to meat processing. Animals were transported long distances, costs increased, and small and mid-sized operations struggled to stay viable. Now, that’s changing. A new USDA-certified meat processing facility in Thurston County is creating a critical link in our local food system: bringing processing capacity closer to home, expanding opportunities for farmers and ranchers, and increasing access to locally raised food for our community. This project is the result of strong local partnerships. Producers, public leaders, and organizations, including the Thurston Conservation District, are working together to advance practical, community-driven solutions. It reflects our shared commitment to voluntary stewardship, thriving working lands, and a resilient, locally rooted economy. At its heart, this is about more than infrastructure. It’s about ensuring that Thurston County remains a place where agriculture can thrive, communities stay connected to their food, and future generations can continue to steward the land. Tune in to learn more! Resources: Thurston Economic Development CouncilThurston County Commissioner Wayne FournierThurston County Commissioner Carolina MejiaColvin RanchAgriculture Innovation ParkRegional Agricultural Development

    1h 16m

  2. MAR 31

    An Inside Look at Thurston Conservation District

    This week, we’re joined by TCD’s Executive Director, Sarah Moorehead, for an inside look at what’s new at TCD. We dive into our exciting new strategic plan and the behind-the-scenes work that brought it to life. We also share important updates on our 2026 budget, including rates and charges renewal, and tackle some common misconceptions about Conservation Districts. Plus, don’t miss a few updates about the podcast itself. Tune in to stay connected! Resources: Check out our 2026 - 2030 Strategic Plan Learn more about Rates and Charges View our 2026 Annual Budget

    53 min

  3. 12/29/2025

    Bee Kind to Insects

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters we are joined by Corin Pease, Pollinator Conservation Specialist at Xerces Society & NRCS Partner Biologist. Corin’s experience spans agriculture, entomology, and integrated pest management (IPM). As a researcher, Corin has studied insects associated with native hedgerows, conservation biological control, and pest management. We dive into what constitutes a pollinator vs. a beneficial insect, the role of beneficial insects in agriculture, and tools for building resilience to the things that threaten these important insects whether you farm or have a yard. Listen to learn how we can all positively impact these important insects! Resources Xerces Society Publications LibraryXerces Society Pollinator Resource CenterXerces Society WA Bumble Bee Habitat KitsXerces Society Bumble Bee AtlasDiscovering Hedgerows Pt. 1 - Podcast EpisodeDiscovering Hedgerows Pt. 2 - Podcast EpisodeTCD's Resource LibraryTCD's Native Plant Sale - pre-order through January 2026

    50 min

  4. 11/03/2025

    Leaf to Life: Macroinvertebrates and Carbon Cycling

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters we are joined by Dr. Carri LeRoy a local researcher and professor at The Evergreen State College. Together, we discuss why improving water quality is important, the role macroinvertebrates play in the ecosystem, and the importance of the carbon cycle. Dr. LeRoy talks about her intriguing research and shares ways we can all support a healthier future. Tune in to learn more! Learn More Dr. LeRoy's ResearchDr. LeRoy's Lectures on Aquatic Entomology Part 1Dr. LeRoy's Lectures on Aquatic Entomology Part 2Get Involved Thurston County Stream TeamInteresting Articles The Carboniferous Period and Fossil Fuels: Understanding Their ConnectionA Graphical History of Atmospheric CO2 Levels Over TimeGlobal river water quality under climate change and hydroclimatic extremesThe Impact of Pharmaceuticals Released to the EnvironmentWhy is Clean Water Important? A Lifeline for Health, Prosperity, and Sustainability

    49 min

  5. 08/07/2025

    Flying Through the Riparian Zone

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters we are joined by Kim Adelson, vice president and education chair of the South Sound Bird Alliance. Together, we dive into the the world of birds. We discuss the role birds play in riparian zones, areas near streams and rivers and why their presences is a vital part of a healthy and functioning ecosystem. We also explore the history of riparian zones in the Pacific northwest and discuss how this has led to a decline in bird species regionally. Tune in to learn more about how the South Sound Bird Alliance is supporting conservation efforts and learn about the role you can play to be a part of the solution!   Resources: South Sound Birding Alliance Timberland Library Birding Kit Ripple Effect - Learn about riparian zones Book: Birds of the Pacific Northwest

    53 min

  6. 05/22/2025

    Working with Beavers: Nature’s Ecosystem Engineer

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters we are joined by Elyssa Kerr, Executive Director of Beavers Northwest. Together, we dive into the the world of beavers. We discuss the history of the American Beaver and hear all about why this critter is a vital part of a healthy and functioning ecosystem. We also explore the conflict humans and beavers face and discuss ways we can collaboratively work with nature's ecosystem engineer to support a healthy ecosystem and support infrastructure and agricultural lands. Tune in to learn more about Beaver Northwest's important work in our community! Resources: Beavers Northwest (beaversnw.org)The Beaver InstituteEager (Book)Beaver Con (Convention)iNaturalist This podcast is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

    45 min

  7. 03/15/2025

    A Sit-down with TCD's Board of Supervisors

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters, we are joined by TCD's Board of Supervisors TJ Johnson, Betsie De Wreede, Doug Rushton, Marianne Tompkins, and David Iyall. During this episode, we get to know each of our board members and hear more about TCD's organizational goals. We discuss the responsibilities of board supervisors and learn more about our upcoming election. Tune in to hear about TCD's organizational priorities and how to get involved in our Board elections! A mail-in election for Position 2 on TCD's Board of Supervisors will be held March 18, 2025. Registered voters who live within the Conservation District boundaries are encouraged to vote in the 2025 election. Get your ballot in person March 12-18 during weekdays between 8am and 4:30pm from elections staff at the Thurston Conservation District offices (582 Tilley Ct SE, Suite 152, Tumwater, WA 98501) Resources: Learn more about TCD's Board Members here.Learn more about TCD election here.2025 Appointed Board Member opening.Other election and appointment resources: WSCC Appointed Board Member Application FormElection and Appointment WACCD Supervisor Appointment GuideConservation District Elections Accountability and Transparency InformationWA State Conservation Commission (WSCC) Guide to Conservation District ElectionsConservation District Elections FAQs from WSCCTCD’s Election FAQ page

    57 min

  8. 02/24/2025

    Discovering Hedgerows Part 2

    On this month's episode of Conservation Starters, we are joined by Senior WSU Extension Coordinator & Educator, Erica Guttman. During this episode we dive even deeper into the world of hedgerows, exploring hedgerow design and planting plans. We discuss how to examine your landscape and choose the best plants for your space. We also talk about sourcing plants for your hedgerow and share lots of resources available to our listeners! Tune in to hear more about our ongoing partnership and learn about upcoming opportunities to get involved.  Resources: Hedgerow Toolkit Hedgerow Webinars & Videos Native Plant Salvage Plant Sale Thurston Conservation District Native Plant Festival & Sale Plant Sourcing List Sign-up to join us on March 22nd! This podcast is supported with funding from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act. The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

    1h 10m
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Conservation Starters is a podcast created by the Thurston Conservation District. This series is dedicated to empowering Thurston County residents to steward our shared natural resources. Through thoughtful conversations with TCD staff, community partners, and community members we explore a program or issue related to the work of the Conservation District and how our community can engage with us and our staff.

Information

  • Creator
    Thurston Conservation District
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Conservation Starters
  • Show Website
    Conservation Starters

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