Conservation and Science

With Christmas approaching fast, I suggest a perfect gift for anyone interested in nature and conservation. It's a new book called "Great Misconceptions", edited by Ian Parsons, our guest on this podcast episode. The book brings together 13 essays from leading nature writers, scientists and conservationists who tackle common myths about rewilding. Several of the authors have appeared on my podcast before, including Eoghan Daltun, Steve Carver, Ian Carter and Alexander Lees. If you'd like to learn more about the book and rewilding, you can listen to my conversation with Ian, where we discuss species reintroductions, tree regeneration and community engagement. You'll find a link to buy the book below and in the show notes - and yes, I receive a small commission from each sale, which helps support the podcast.

Rewilding Myths and Misconceptions

What exactly is rewilding? Does it simply mean bringing back wolves, lynx and bears, or is there more to it? Can we balance food production and rural community needs with land left to natural processes and wildlife conservation? To answer these questions, I talk with Ian Parsons, editor of "Great Misconceptions: Rewilding Myths and Misunderstandings", a new book that explores common assumptions and misconceptions about rewilding.

In our discussion, we address aspects of rewilding that are often misunderstood or misinterpreted, sometimes innocently and at other times deliberately or even maliciously. We explore three topics commonly associated with rewilding that often spark heated debate: species reintroductions, community engagement, and the choice between tree planting and natural regeneration. This discussion draws on the collective wisdom of renowned authors who contributed distinct chapters to the book.

In the end, Ian emphasises that rewilding shouldn't remain just another niche concept but needs to be integrated into how we live our lives, from urban planning to politics or even business practices. He challenges the notion that rewilding is anti-rural, arguing instead that it can revitalise rural economies and provide new opportunities for communities. The episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in conservation, land management and the future of our relationship with nature.

191: Rewilding Myths and Misconceptions with Ian Parsons

Great Misconceptions: Rewilding Myths and Misunderstandings

Ireland on the Fly

What drives two friends to create a weekly podcast about fly fishing? How do they manage to keep it fresh and engaging week after week? Ireland on the Fly started as Daire's passion project about four years ago, combining his media background with his newfound love for fly fishing. The podcast took on new life when Tom, an experienced angling guide and former Hardy and Grays sales manager, joined the team two and a half years ago.

Ireland on the Fly | Substack

The show explores the rich culture and history of fly fishing in Ireland, featuring diverse topics from technical fishing advice to environmental issues. Each episode brings unique perspectives through interviews with historians, scientists, and fellow anglers. The hosts maintain a careful balance between practical fishing content and broader environmental concerns, often addressing current issues like the recent Killery Harbour salmon farm escapees while staying true to their role as custodians of rivers and lakes.

As media veterans, Daire and Tom understand the challenge of keeping environmental content engaging for their audience. They work to find fresh angles on recurring issues like fish kills and salmon farming, while still delivering the practical fishing content their listeners desire. Their approach combines awareness-raising with entertainment, proving that educational content can coexist with engaging storytelling.

Creating quality content about nature takes time and resources.
Support my work, buy me a coffee!

☕

113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​