Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Podcast series
As an additional way to tell the story of our river, its tributaries and the creatures and people that depend on the extended Middle Susquehanna watershed, we have created the following series of podcasts interviewing people who are passionate about clean water and our environment. If you have feedback or would like to suggest an interview, send an email to [email protected]
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Dr. Leslie Rieck, Cheryl Terpak & Ben FryJuly 10, 2025 -- Williamsport Municipal Water Authority Environmental Manager Cheryl Terpak, Lycoming College's Dr. Leslie Rieck and former student and current water authority worker Ben Fry discuss a unique collaborative effort to map 360 city stormwater outfalls and what we should learn from that work.
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Graham Markowitz, geologistJune 11, 2025 -- A geologist with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, Graham Markowitz is highly interested in hydrology and working on new tools such as GIS mapping to look at groundwater recharge. He shares about that and other important aspects of his work. Interview by Andrew Bechdel.
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Maggie Yonkin, internJune 5, 2025 -- A rising senior at West Virginia University and resident of the Montoursville area of our watershed, Maggie Yonkin is a huge advocate of environmental education. She shares her back story, tips for making a difference and the therapy she appreciates from our natural resources.
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Abbie Mack, internJune 4, 2025 -- Hoping to inspire curiosity and self-worth among young people she works with, Abbie Mack is serving as one of our interns this summer. She shares the inspiration behind her fascination with nature and especially bugs, how she chose Susquehanna University and the importance of pursuing your passion.
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Ibrahim Alqassass, internJune 3, 2025 -- A resident of the Gaza Strip along the Mediterranean Sea, Ibrahim Alqassass is currently majoring in computer science at Susquehanna University and serving as an intern this summer. He shares details about his past, desires to combine environmental work and tech and suggests how young people can make a difference.
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Caley Treat, internMay 29, 2025 -- Rising Susquehanna University junior Caley Treat, from the Bloomsburg area, will be an intern with the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association this summer. She shares details about how she first fell in love with nature, decided to attend Susquehanna University and tips for making a difference at home.
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Don Hibbard, Susquehanna Co. Conservation DistrictMay 5, 2025 -- Program Coordinator for the Susquehanna County Conservation District, Don Hibbard has a longstanding experience in providing a wide variety of services to protect and improve our natural resources. He chats about his background, the importance of environmental education and how people can make a difference.
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Amidea Daniel, PA Fish & Boat educatorApril 12, 2025 -- The Northcentral Region Education Coordinator for the PA Fish and Boat Commission, Amidea Daniel strives to connect people to our natural resources. She does this in creative ways, including overseeing the Trout in the Classroom initiative and leading a statewide women in the outdoors effort. Interview by Emily Shosh.
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Andrew Mickey, Conservation Program SpecialistMarch 27, 2025 -- An avid outdoorsman since little, growing up in Schuylkill County and seeing environmental impacts of mining and other pollutants first-hand, Andrew Mickey serves the State Conservation Commission and works on roadway-waterway interactions via PA's dirt and gravel program. Interview by Emily Shosh.
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Aaron Lewis, Ruffed Grouse SocietyMarch 13, 2025 -- New Forest Conservation Coordinator Aaron Lewis chats about his role, the importance of forests when it comes to filtering waterways and the habitat it provides our state bird, the ruffed grouse. An advocate of the grouse, Lewis also discusses restoration of the species thanks to improving habitat. Interview by Northern Tier Regional Director Emily Shosh.
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Todd Eaby, SRBC Project Review ManagerFebruary 17, 2025 -- Susquehanna River Basin Commission Project Review Manager Todd Eaby looks back at his 15 years so far with the commission and discusses how water withdrawal permits work for a wide variety of industrial needs across the watershed. Interview by Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Dr. Jean Lomino, Forest School Teacher InstituteJanuary 17, 2025 -- Founder and director of the Forest School Teacher Institute, Dr. Jean Lomino, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, talks about what forest schooling is, her journey as an educator to better understanding the importance of outdoor learning and what people can expect at a mid-April certification training she is offering in PA.
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Jamie SanFilippo, Fly-fishing guideDecember 19, 2024 -- A lifelong angler, Jamie SanFilippo has turned her passion into a fly-fishing guide career in Centre County. She talks with West Branch Regional Director Andrew Bechdel about her work and how development is impacting trout habitat and what groups like Trout Unlimited are doing about it.
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Alyssa Maddalena, Children's authorDecember 10, 2024 -- Physicians assistant Alyssa Maddalena shares the story of how she started writing a children's book about her daughter and their adventures along the Susquehanna River called "Good Morning, Susquehanna" which released in late November. Interview with Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Chris Firestone, DCNR botanistDecember 3, 2024 -- DCNR Botanist chats with Northern Tier Regional Director Emily Shosh about her love of plants, the importance of protecting wetlands as a way to saving rare plant species and how we all can be more aware of our impacts to the environment around us.
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100th episode: A look backNovember 25, 2024 -- We celebrate our 100th episode of the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper podcast by looking back at some of the most popular moments from more than 29 hours of interviews from people who all share a passion for our river, its tributaries and the creatures that depend on those aquatic resources.
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Richard Fritsky, PGC biologistOctober 29, 2024 -- Pennsylvania Game Commission wildlife diversity biologist Richard Fritsky chats about his work and specifically about bats and their important relationship with our aquatic ecosystem, the insects they help control and the impacts of white nose syndrome on their populations. Interview by Riverkeeper John Zaktansky
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Cat Pugh, Forest extension educatorSeptember 30, 2024 -- Penn State Forest Extension Educator Cat Pugh talks about the importance of riparian buffers, agroforestry and creative plantings of things such as willow that can lead to opportunities such as artistic programs and needs such as basket weaving. Interview by Regional Director Andrew Bechdel.
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Phil Thomas, Trout UnlimitedSeptember 18, 2024 -- Stream Restoration Specialist Phil Thomas, of Trout Unlimited, chats about the use of Large Wood Addition (LWA) projects which include felling large trees intentionally into streams to intentionally mimic natural conditions and increase habitat. Interview by Regional Director Emily Shosh.
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Matt Kaunert, Lycoming College CWIAugust 29, 2024 -- The newest Director of Lycoming College's Clean Water Institute, Matt Kaunert has a long history of Eastern hellbender research in western PA. He shares some of that and his nest box work, what he's seen in studying hellbender reproduction and trends across the state. Interview by Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Dr. Peter Petokas, Hellbender researcherAugust 14, 2024 -- We check back in with Dr. Peter Petokas and his work on the Eastern hellbender in the Susquehanna River watershed to see what the species' status current status is, what work is being done and how we can act now to preserve the hellbender before it is too late. Interview by Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Mike Toolan, Musser Gap officialJuly 11, 2024 -- Mike Toolan, the Musser Gap Conservation Director, talks about the 355-acre Musser Gap Greenway. The venue, created via a partnership with Penn State University and the Clearwater Conservancy, is dedicated to connecting people to nature while water quality and habitat in Centre County. Interview by West Branch Regional Director Andrew Bechdel
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Danielle Tryon, sculpin researcherJuly 2, 2024 -- Susquehanna University graduate Danielle Tryon shares details about her study on sculpin done at the Freshwater Research Institute's stream channels that look at how the species reacts to thermal changes in a waterway, some interesting discoveries and what we should learn from this work. Interview by Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Jay Schofield, summer internJune 5, 2024 -- Susquehanna University student Jay Schofield discusses the interconnectedness of our ecosystems and how we can have a positive impact, enjoyment of restoration projects like an analog beaver dam effort at the university and the importance of volunteering. Interview by Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Sarah Joy, summer internJune 4, 2024 -- Susquehanna University student Sarah Joy talks about what brought her from Florida to central Pennsylvania, what sparked her love of nature and why environmental education and advocacy is so important for her and others. Interview by Riverkeeper John Zaktansky.
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Theadora Duane, summer internMay 28, 2024 -- Dickinson College student and Bloomsburg native Theadora Duane shares about her journey to study environmental work starting as early as the third grade, lessons she has learned from beekeeping at college and why it is so important for people to get outdoors and into nature.
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Tom Clark, AMD specialistApril 15, 2024 -- Tom Clark, the Abandoned Mine Program Project Development Manager for Kleinfelder Engineering, has a long history of working with Abandoned Mine Drainage issues in the state. He talks about those experiences as well as recent opportunities for treatment via funding, including $68 million for a project on the Tioga River. Interview by Northern Tier Regional Director Emily Shosh.
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Michael Kinney, MSRKA presidentApril 30, 2024 -- Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association President Michael Kinney discusses the preparation before his 200-plus-mile adventure paddling the West Branch of the Susquehanna River which begins May 1. He talks about what inspired the trip, what has gone into planning and what he hopes to achieve while on the river.
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Joshua Caldwell, film directorApril 22, 2024 -- Joshua Caldwell, director of the film "Mending the Line" which has been trending on Netflix and other online platforms, talks about the therapy of fly fishing, the importance of protecting our clean water resources, details behind the success of the film and what he hopes people take away from it.
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Tom Keller, PGC furbearer biologistMarch 26, 2024 -- A furbearer biologist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Tom Keller is at the forefront of the agency's American Marten reintroduction project. He speaks about that head of the agency's April plan decision as well as trends in other mammals, including the muskrat.
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Dr. Edward Levri, Biology professorMarch 5, 2024 -- Professor of Biology at Penn State Altoona, Dr. Edward Levri has studied the invasive New Zealand mud snail extensively both abroad and locally. He shares details on why it is so dangerous to our aquatic ecosystem and some ways we can all help slow its spread.
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Laura LeBeau, Commonwealth BeatFebruary 26, 2024 -- Laura LeBeau with the popular statewide radio program Commonwealth Beat interviewed Riverkeeper John Zaktansky about his job, the state of the Susquehanna River and the Songs of the Susquehanna project, encouraging people to give feedback ahead of the Feb. 29 deadline.
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Andrew Bechdel, Regional director, MSRKAFeb. 6, 2024 -- New part-time West Branch Regional Director for the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, Bechdel has a long history of environmental education and talks about the value of connecting with our natural resources and how he wants to best represent the needs of the western portion of the watershed.
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Emily Shosh, Regional director, MSRKAFeb. 3, 2024 -- Recently hired as the part-time Northern Tier Regional Director for the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, Shosh also serves as Communications and Outreach Advisor for the Potter County Conservation District. She talks about her background, the region and ways people can make a difference.
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Dr. Jennifer Elick & Olivia WeaverAugust 16, 2023 -- Associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at Susquehanna University Dr. Jennifer Elick and student researcher Olivia Weaver, of Sunbury, talk about their study of a legacy island, formed of coal waste, in our river.
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Kim Mattern, archeologistMay 17, 2023 -- Advocational archeologist Kim Mattern, curator for the Snyder County Historical Museum, talks about Native American artifacts found along rivers and creeks and the lessons they can teach us about ancestors who lived in these areas.
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Songs of the susquehanna: Vol. 3 artistsApril 1, 2023 -- Check out a special episode of our podcast as we introduce the 20 songs that will be on our Songs of the Susquehanna: Vol. 3 playlist as well as catch up with some of the artists behind the music.
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Andrew "Rockhound" EppigMarch 28, 2023 -- Andrew Eppig, better known as Rockhound, talks about the geology of the Susquehanna River, its historical connection, some unique (AMD) impacts today and how people can best explore the rocks of our river region.
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Dr. Brian Mangan, Kings CollegeFeb. 3, 2023 -- Dr. Brian Mangan, Professor of Environmental and Ecological Sciences and Biology at Kings College, talks about mercury research in macro species such as crayfish and hellgrammites, as well as overall river health and trends he's noticed.
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Travis Wingard, Master Watershed Steward programDec. 14, 2022 -- Travis Wingard, the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward Coordinator for the PA Wilds region, talks about the program's evolution in the PA Wilds region, recent expansion into new counties and why people should get involved.
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Sydney Stark, Megan Schall and Geoff Smith, Flatheads Part 3Nov. 2, 2022 -- Research student Sydney Stark, Assistant Professor of Biology at Penn State-Hazleton Megan Schall and PA Fish and Boat Commission biologist Geoffrey Smith wrap up their discussion on invasive flathead catfish with findings from recent dietary studies and the importance of community involvement.
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Vicki Blazer, US Geological SurveyOct. 18, 2022 -- Vicki Blazer, a research fishery biologist of the US Geological Survey, shares details about PFAS, what they are, where they come from and trends in the emerging contaminant in fish species in our watershed.
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Scott Morris, filmmakerSept. 1, 2022 -- Independent filmmaker Scott Morris talks about his new documentary, "American River," ahead of a special screening of the film scheduled as part of a Clean Water Celebration in Lewisburg on Oct. 15, 2022.
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Leslie Rieck, Lycoming CollegeAugust 29, 2022 -- Leslie Rieck, of Lycoming College, talks about the Clean Water Institute, current research efforts, storm water concerns in the Williamsport area and ways people can make a difference at home and via citizen science work.
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Geoff Smith, Sydney Stark and Megan Schall, Flatheads part 2Aug. 6, 2022 -- PA Fish and Boat Commission biologist Geoffrey Smith, research student Sydney Stark and Assistant Professor of Biology at Penn State-Hazleton Megan Schall continue the discussion about flatheads by looking at other waterways where flatheads have invaded and what red flags are being seen in the Susquehanna.
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Abby sieg, Watershed specialistJuly 22, 2022 -- Columbia County Conservation District watershed specialist and environmental educator Abby Sieg talks about the upcoming Susquehanna Valley Watershed Festival, the importance of watershed groups and environmental education.
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Megan Schall, Geoff Smith & Sydney Stark, Invasive FlatheadsJuly 14, 2022 -- Assistant Professor of Biology at Penn State-Hazleton Megan Schall, PA Fish and Boat Commission biologist Geoffrey Smith and research student Sydney Stark talk about aquatic invasive species with a focus on the flathead catfish. ** This is the first of what will be a three-part series on the flathead and its impacts regionally.
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Andrew Stuhl, Bucknell UniversityJune 10, 2022 -- Andrew Stuhl, department chair for Bucknell University's Environmental Studies and Sciences Department, talks about his extensive research into the historic flooding of Hurricane Agnes on our region 50 years ago this month.
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Andrew Bechdel, Outdoor enthusiastMay 25, 2022 -- Andrew Bechdel is involved with numerous local outdoors programs, pulling from his degree in recreation management from LHU to provide environmental education and striving to connect people with our natural resources.
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Peyton Curley, Summer internMay 10, 2022 -- Peyton Curley, a rising junior at Susquehanna University studying environmental science, will serve as the MSRKA's summer intern for 2022. Get to know her and what drives her passion for our environmental resources.
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JEremy Hoffman, SRBC Manager of ComplianceApril 28, 2022 -- Jeremy Hoffman, of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, answers questions about a reported water draw concern in the watershed, talking about thresholds for when water draws are an issue and when you should report one.
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Lou Ann Tom, CHEmistry professorApril 14, 2022 -- Susquehanna University Associate Professor of Chemistry Lou Ann Tom talks about pharmaceuticals, our waterways and efforts to better detect issues and reduce impacts via photodegradation research.
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David staebler, Buffalo Creek Watershed AllianceApril 4, 2022 -- David Staebler, chairman for the Buffalo Creek Watershed Alliance, talks about the 20th anniversary event for the group, major issues they've addressed along the Buffalo Creek and how to get involved with upcoming stewardship needs.
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Shannon Thomas, Chesapeake ConservancyMarch 29, 2022 -- Live stake coordinator for the Chesapeake Conservancy, Shannon Thomas talks about what a live stake is, the many ways live stakes can improve water quality and how to get involved in the live stake program.
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Richard Hess, Ex-Land Specialist for the Montour PreserveMar. 24, 2022 -- Marking the 50th anniversary of the Montour Preserve, we check in with the original land specialist on the flooding from Agnes, other historical and memorable moments and the significance of the preserve today and in the future.
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RIVERKEEPER on WVIA RadioFeb. 23, 2022 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky spoke with Fiona Powell on WVIA radio about our Songs of the Susquehanna project and the impending deadline for feedback on the 58 songs we received.
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RiverkeepEr on WKOK RadioFeb. 17, 2022 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky chatted on-air with Mark Lawrence on WKOK's Sunrise program about the Songs of the Susquehanna project and other initiatives for the coming year.
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Alana Jajko, Susquehanna Greenway partnershipFeb. 17, 2022 -- Alana Jajko, the director of communications and outreach for the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, talks about the group's big outdoor expo coming June 4, how people can get involved and other upcoming events.
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Aaron Eldred, Watershed SpecialistFeb. 8, 2022 -- A watershed specialist with the Columbia County Conservation District, Aaron Eldred talks about the vital importance of watershed associations, stream structure projects, drone footage and an incident that inspired his career.
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Ben Lorson, PFBC section chiefJan. 14, 2022 -- Ben Lorson, the PA Fish and Boat Commission's Watershed Analysis Section Chief, talks about studies that show an increase in salinity in the state's waterways and the role rock salt spreading on roadways in the winter plays in that.
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Kelly Caudle, MSRKA boardJan. 7, 2022 -- Kelly Caudle, the newest board member of the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, talks about what sparked her passion for our river-based resources, some of the threats she sees facing those resources and how you can help.
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Doug Fessler, environmentalistDec. 31, 2021 -- Doug Fessler talks about his experiences of cleaning up litter along the Susquehanna River near Sunbury, protecting resources like vernal pools and offers tips on how to make a difference in your own local community.
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John Zaktansky, RiverkeeperDec. 20, 2021 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky's WKOK Radio interview from Dec. 8 discusses the Sentinels of the Susquehanna book, search for new Songs of the Susquehanna submissions and River of the Year voting.
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Michele Kittell Connolly, Wildlife Leadership AcademyDec. 6, 2021 -- Wildlife Leadership Academy Executive Director Michele Kittell Connolly shares details about the program, how to nominate a teen for the extensive experience and why it is critical to connect young people to the outdoors.
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Mickayla Poland, artistNov. 19, 2021 -- Wildlife artist Mickayla Poland talks about the Upstream Art Project in Elk County, painting murals on storm drains to help raise awareness about how pollution can enter our waterways.
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Katie Caputo, Roambler.comNov. 13, 2021 -- Katie Caputo, founder of Roambler.com, talks about the site's ability to connect people with suitable mentors for a wide variety of outdoor activities, hoping to spark a vested interest in our natural resources.
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Ed Wytovich, CCRA presidentOct. 25, 2021 -- Catawissa Creek Restoration Association President Ed Wytovich discusses the unique aspects of his creek, the successes it has seen via two treatment facilities and the threats it still faces from abandoned mine drainage concerns.
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Dan Brauning, Wildlife specialistOct. 14, 2021 -- Retired Pennsylvania Game Commission Supervisor of Wildlife Diversity Dan Brauning talks about the incredible recovery story of bald eagles, ospreys and peregrine falcons in our region and the value of our river's habitat.
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Cindy Adams Dunn, DCNR SecretaryOct. 1, 2021 -- DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn talks about her role with the agency, the importance of forest-based buffers along waterways, issues facing our watershed and important programs the DCNR is working on.
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John Zaktansky, RiverkeeperSept. 22, 2021 -- Listen to Riverkeeper John Zaktansky's live interview on the WKOK Sunrise radio program that aired between 7-8 a.m. on Sept. 22.
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Randy Farmerie and Tom Mears,
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Colin Jerolmack, AuthorSept. 2, 2021 -- Author of the newly published book "Up to Heaven and Down to Hell," Colin Jerolmack talks about his time in Williamsport researching the fracking industry and telling the stories of those who leased land and were directly impacted.
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Pete Allison, outdoor educatorAug. 24, 2021 -- Pete Allison, an associate professor in Penn State University's Recreation, Park & Tourism Management Department, talks about the value of taking people onto the river and connecting them with natural resources.
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Dr. Joseph Simons III, Wild Trout ManAug. 16, 2021 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association Board Vice President Dr. Joseph Simons III talks about his efforts as Wild Trout Man to educate others about the importance of conservation and fly fishing for wild trout.
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ERic Rosengrant, Eric Skrivseth, Moshannon CreekAug. 9, 2021 -- Moshannon Creek Watershed Association President Eric Skrivseth and Vice President Eric Rosengrant on their association's efforts in the past year.
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Bobby Hughes, EPCAMR directorJuly 16, 2021 -- Executive director of the Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition of Abandoned Mine Reclamation (EPCAMR), Bobby Hughes talks about the many issues involving mine drainage, how EPCAMR is addressing them and how to help.
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Danielle Tryon, MSRKA InternJuly 9, 2021 -- Susquehanna University rising sophomore Danielle Tryon is working through the month of July as an intern for our association. Learn more about her, what sparked her passion for the environment and what she has in store.
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Matt Wilson, Susquehanna Univ.June 28, 2021 -- Matt Wilson helps connect students at Susquehanna University with on-the-water research projects and also works with local conservation groups on streambank stabilization projects. He talks about erosion and other aquatic issues.
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Mike Strunk, Hiawatha CaptainJune 12, 2021 -- Hiawatha Paddleboat Captain Mike Strunk previews the venue's upcoming 40th season, chats about the history of the Hiawatha, reflects on some trends he has noticed in our river and cool sights of being on the river so often.
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William Ryan, musician & studentJune 4, 2021 -- William Ryan, a Marine Corps veteran and Penn State grad student in Environmental Resource Management, was one of 36 musicians to get involved in our Songs of the Susquehanna project. Listen to his song, his inspiration and his efforts to protect our waterway resources.
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Morgan Thomas, MSRKA InterNMay 28, 2021 -- The first of two interns from Susquehanna to work with the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association this summer, Morgan Thomas talks about why she is so passionate about our resources and what she hopes to accomplish.
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Tyler Groh, Watershed specialistMay 20, 2021 -- Taking over as a watershed management extension specialist for the Penn State Extension a year ago, Tyler Groh chats about agricultural and urban stormwater issues, sedimentation and ways that people get make a difference locally.
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Kathryn HaYDEn, Research Asst.May 14, 2021 -- Kathryn Hayden, a graduate research assistant at Penn State University, chats about her current study of Endocrine Disrupting Compounds in our waterways, their impact on the ecosystem and how to gauge your EDC footprint.
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Douglas Orr, Aquatic BiologistMay 6, 2021 -- DEP aquatic biologist Douglas Orr, who oversees the agency's Black Fly Suppression Program, talks about how the initiative got started, defines the black fly and discusses the compound sprayed into our waterways and its aquatic impact.
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John Zaktansky, RiverkeeperMay 3, 2021 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky chatted for two segments with WKOK Radio's Mark Lawrence on his Sunrise program about upcoming programs and other efforts to protect and promote our river.
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John Zaktansky, Riverkeeper
May 2, 2021 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky spoke with WVIA Radio's Lisa Mazzarella on the May 2 episode of Keystone Edition about the importance of youth engagement of our outdoor resources, our Songs of the Susquehanna project and much more. Check out the conversation by clicking the red icon in the player to the left.
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Lou Ann Gasperine, EducatorApril 29, 2021 -- Lou Ann Gasperine is a retired educator who still offers programs via the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau's mobile ag unit and is active with conservation efforts along the Pine Creek watershed. She discusses the importance of outdoor education.
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Jon Beam, Master NaturalistApril 19, 2021 -- Jon Beam, the vice president of the Montour Area Recreation Commission and naturalist/educator at the Montour Preserve, talks about vernal pools, why they are important, which species frequent them and how we can protect them.
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Peter Petokas, Hellbender researchApril 9, 2021 -- Peter Petokas, a renowned expert on the hellbender with 15 years experience, talks about the dwindling populations in our watershed, the importance of the amphibian, what can be done to improve the situation and other water quality issues.
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Brittney Hartzell, Water SpecialistApril 1, 2021 -- Water specialist for the Columbia County Conservation District, Brittney Hartzell grew up in the region. She talks about the county's response to a Chesapeake Bay initiative and ways people can make a difference for our water resources.
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Faran Savitz, Microplastics studyMarch 26, 2021 -- A conservation associate for PennEnvironment, Faran Savitz was one of two people behind a recent study that indicated the massive proliferation of microplastics in waterways across the state. He talks about the study and what we should learn from it.
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COREY ELLISON, Greenway directorMarch 18, 2021 -- Corey Ellison, the executive director for the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership talks about the group's efforts to connect the land and water resources throughout the Susquehanna River basin.
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Michele RichardS, Master NaturalistMarch 5, 2021 -- Pennsylvania Master Naturalist Program President and Director Michele Richards talks about what it means to be a master naturalist, how the program was formed and some of the many ways the naturalist family is making a difference.
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CASEY MAGARGLE, Angler/InstructorFeb. 26, 2021 -- Bass Pro and Mifflinburg school educator Casey Magargle talks about coaching numerous students to big fishing tournament victories, his bait shop and important trends he has noticed in countless hours on the Susquehanna.
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Brenda Sieglitz, 10 Million TreesFeb. 19, 2021 -- Brenda Sieglitz talks about the 10 Million Trees Partnership with a goal of cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay, how trees can drastically improve water quality and the major need of new land to plant trees on in the coming years.
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Tim Schaeffer, Fish & Boat directorFeb. 12, 2021 -- Tim Schaeffer, the executive director of the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission, chats about the historic start to the 2020 trout season and what people can expect for this coming year in terms of the trout opener, stocking and opportunities.
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Franklin Kury, legislator & AuthorFeb. 5, 2021 -- Franklin Kury served three terms in the PA House of Representatives between 1966 and 1972, playing an instrumental part in the PA Clean Streams Act and Environmental Rights Amendment. He talks about all that and his new book arriving soon.
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Dr. Kathleen Mullen, veterinarianJan. 28, 2021 -- Kathleen Mullen, a veterinarian at Littleton Equine in Colorado, talks about a study she was a part of in our watershed that potentially links fracking chemicals to sick foals at a northern PA farm. Check out the full story package here.
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Andrew Dehoff, SRBC DirectorJan 22, 2021 -- Andrew Dehoff, the executive director of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, chats about the SRBC's 50th anniversary, accomplishments from the first five decades, what is next and how people can keep on top of permits and other actions.
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Don Shappelle, musicianJan. 18, 2021 -- Don Shappelle, a musician from Luzerne County, shares a song he wrote with children aboard the Hiawatha during a Floating Classroom a few years ago and the therapeutic crossover between music, the river and the Songs of the Susquehanna project.
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John LEVITSKY, Water SpecialistJan. 13, 2020 -- John Levitsky, watershed specialist for the Luzerne County Conservation District, talks about Abandoned Mine Drainage issues, including the Plainsville Borehole Discharge and what his plans are (and hurdles he's faced in tackling the issues at this site.
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CAIN CHAMBERLIN, Endless MtnsJan. 5, 2021 -- Cain Chamberlin, of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, talks about nominating the Tunkhannock Creek for 2021 River of the Year, why people should vote for the waterway (by Jan. 22) and shares info about his group's efforts to protect resources.
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R. John Dawes, Water Reporter AppDec. 30, 2020 -- R. John Dawes, executive director and co-founder of The Commons, helped develop the Water Reporter app, an "Instagram for anglers," as a tool to help catalog catches and watch for important water quality trends throughout the watershed.
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KATHLEEN LAVELLE, Trout UnlimitedDec. 22, 2020 -- Kathleen Lavelle, the field coordinator for Pennsylvania's Trout Unlimited cold water habitat program, talks about our native trout populations, various threats they face and a unique fish relocation situation she assisted with along a wet road.
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John dawes, Pa WatershedsDec. 14, 2020 -- John Dawes, of the Foundation for Pa. Watersheds, shares how the agency helps smaller groups via grants and other services, talks about the dangers of acid mine drainage, fracking and other waterway concerns and suggests how to make a difference.
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Diana Dakey, Protect Northern PADec. 7, 2020 -- Diana Dakey, founding member of ProtectNorthernPA.org, speaks ahead of a Dec. 9 permit review about her concerns involving liquified natural gas (LNG) being produced and transported from Bradford County to a New Jersey port.
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John Zaktansky, RiverkeeperDec. 7, 2020 -- Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky chats with WKOK radio personality Mark Lawrence on the Sunrise program about the HERYN (Helping Engage our River's Youth with Nature) Program, Songs of the Susquehanna and other projects.
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Lila Oast, teen kayaker & anglerDec. 1, 2020 -- Lila Oast, of Bloomsburg, has been kayaking with her father along the Susquehanna River for as long as she can remember, and has since picked up sponsors as she competes in a variety of tournaments throughout the country.
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JOHN ZaNGARI-RYAN, Kayaking expertNov. 24, 2020 -- John Zangari-Ryan has kayaked across the United States, but feels we have the most diverse paddling experience right here on the Susquehanna. He chats about kayak routes he developed, kayak camps he provides for kids and the health of our watershed.
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Special DUCK Overview episodeNov. 17, 2020 -- Jon Beam, of the Montour Preserve, and longtime Lycoming Audubon member Gary Metzger discuss different categories of ducks you can find in our watershed, unique behaviors, various threats they face and review a few of the common calls they make.
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Renee Carey, Conservancy directorNov. 12, 2020 -- Renee Carey, the executive director of the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy, talks about the important work the conservancy does, efforts to preserve access points to our waterways and her take on the health of our river and its tributaries.
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BEnjamin Hayes, Bucknell UniversityNov. 4, 2020 -- Benjamin Hayes, the program director for Bucknell's Watershed Sciences & Engineering Program, talks about the current health of the Susquehanna River along with details about the upcoming 15th Annual River Symposium.
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John Zaktansky, riverkeeperNov. 2, 2020 -- WPGM/WBGM News Director Matthew James interviews Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association executive director John Zaktansky for a show that aired Oct. 18 on the mission of the organization, upcoming programs and other topics.
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Steve Kurian, Wild for SalmonOct. 29, 2020 -- Steve Kurian and his family operate the business Wild for Salmon out of Bloomsburg, making regular trips to the Alaskan wilds for fresh salmon to sell in our watershed. He talks about the importance of clean water and eating fresh fish.
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VAN WAGNER, Eels in the classroomOct. 21, 2020 -- Renowned watershed educator, historian and musician Van Wagner talks about lessons learned with students via a unique "Eels in the Classroom" program, why eels used to play such a vital role in the region's waterways and what happened along the way.
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MARC YAGGI, Waterkeeper AllianceOct. 15, 2020 -- Marc Yaggi, the executive director for the Waterkeeper Alliance, was raised on the banks of the Loyalsock Creek. He shares his story from playing in local waterways to overseeing a global movement to confront pollution and take back our water-based resources.
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JOLENE CONNELLY, outdoor educatorOct. 8, 2020 -- A member of the governor's advisory council for hunting, fishing and conservation, Jolene Connelly also engages people via kayaking, hunter/trapper education and other ventures. She talks on trends in the aquatic ecosystem and value of the outdoors.
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RICH BEST, Certified SCUBA instructorSept. 30, 2020 -- Rich Best, owner of the renowned Sunken Treasure SCUBA Center near Jersey Shore, talks about trends and threats he has noticed within the Susquehanna River, efforts to pull more than 12,000 tires from our waterways and a sunken canal barge he found.
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TALI MacArthur, watershed advocateSept. 23, 2020 -- Tali MacArthur, the program manager for the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) and Pa. Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR), talks about the essential work of watershed groups across the state and why people should get involved.
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MIKE DUPUY, Licensed falconerSept. 17, 2020 -- Mike Dupuy, a longtime falconer out of Snyder County, shares some feedback about various species of raptors (such as ospreys, bald eagles, etc.) we can find along the river and its tributaries in our region. He also talks about current-day threats they face.
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MIKE PARKER, Fish & Boat CommissionSept 9, 2020 -- Mike Parker, the communications director for the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission, talks about the unexpected trout season opener, how COVID has impacted a fishing and boating resurgence, the importance of waterway safety and fishing license fees.
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Emily Sliski, Wesley Forest CAMPSept. 2, 2020 -- Emily Sliski, center director for the Wesley Forest Camp along the Penns Creek near Weikert, discusses the value of getting young people outdoors and waterway monitoring.
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John Oast, kayak angler & YouTuberAug. 26, 2020 -- John Oast began developing kayak rigging videos in 2006, developing a YouTube presence via fishyaker.com that today has more than 5,000,000 video views.
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John Zaktansky, riverkeeperAug. 23, 2020 -- WVIA Radio's Lisa Mazzarella interviewed Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky for a recent episode of Keystone Edition. The original broadcast is here.
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Dr. David Lieb, aquatic biologistAug. 19, 2020 -- Dr. David Lieb, who has studied crayfish in Pennsylvania's waterways for nearly two decades, talks about the dangers of invasive exotic species wiping out the natives.
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Kathy Snavely, board presidentAug. 12, 2020 -- Kathy Snavely is the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Board president and only remaining founding board member.
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Dr. Joseph Simons, board vice presidentAug. 12, 2020 -- Dr. Joseph Simons is an avid trout angler and wildlife photographer out of Luzerne County, serving as the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Board vice president.
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Ann fisher, Board secretary & TreasurerAug. 12, 2020 -- Ann Fisher, who spent 10 years working in Washington with the Environmental Protection Agency, currently lives in Snyder County.
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Caz Russell, board memberAug. 12, 2020 -- Caz Russell is a certified John Maxwell leadership instructor, motivational speaker and avid waterfowler on the Susquehanna River.
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