Blazin' Grazin' And Other Wild Things

Blazin’ Grazin’ and Other Wild Things is more than a podcast. It’s a record of knowledge, a tool for transformation, and a beacon for those who believe that good land management is as much about community as it is about combustion. It honors the science while embracing the stories. It respects the past while equipping the future. And in every smoky anecdote, every carefully explained concept, it carries one message: that stewardship isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s a lifelong journey shaped by fire, forage, and a little bit of wildness. If you haven’t listened yet, now’s the time. Because the land won’t wait. And neither will the next burn window.

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Episodes

Patch-Burned Into History - BGWT 106

In this episode of Blazin’ Grazin’ and Other Wild Things , we’re honored to host Dr. Dave Engle, Regents Professor Emeritus at Oklahoma State University and a pioneer in fire ecology. From wildland firefighting in New Mexico to building OSU’s fire program with just two torches and a vision, Dave shares an incredible career rooted in science, stewardship, and some good ol’ fashioned trial and error. His stories are vivid, his impact undeniable, and his passion still burns bright. We dive into the...

Apr 21, 2025•49 min•Season 1Ep. 6

The Bidwell Way: Restoring Land with Fire, Grazing, and a Little Grit - BGWT 105

What do a gas can, a helicopter, and a barrel of napalm have in common? They’re all part of Dr. Terry Bidwell’s wild (and true) stories from decades of rangeland management in Oklahoma. In this episode of Blazin’ Grazin’ and Other Wild Things , Dr. Bidwell — emeritus professor and longtime OSU Extension specialist — shares how prescribed fire, patch grazing, and a deep understanding of native plants can turn overgrown pastures into thriving, profitable landscapes. From chasing helicopters to cha...

Apr 07, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 5

Grasslands Thrive Where Prescribed Fire Lives - BGWT 104

In this episode, we're joined by Cole Fagen, the coordinating biologist for the Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture, and Ken Gee, a conservation delivery specialist. Together, they work with landowners to implement wildlife habitat management, focusing primarily on upland and grassland birds in southern and northern Oklahoma and central Texas. In this episode, we dive into how technical and financial assistance is helping landowners across Oklahoma and Texas implement prescribed fire and other habit...

Mar 24, 2025•40 min•Season 1Ep. 4

What Decades of Research Reveal About Deer - BGWT 103

We discuss Ken's extensive background, from his early experiences with prescribed burns and wildlife research to his insights on deer behavior and habitat management, offering listeners a blend of practical knowledge and entertaining anecdotes. Key Insights - The importance of Bois d'Arc or Osage Orange as a year-round deer food plant, with dried leaves maintaining high protein content even in winter. - The limitations of the Severinghaus method for aging deer, suggesting it's only reliable for ...

Mar 10, 2025•43 min•Season 1Ep. 3

Talking Turkey: Predator Control and Nest Success - BGWT 102

Turkey populations are not doing as well as we would like. Many states have noticed declines in various metrics, including poults per hen. Oklahoma has seen similar trends, with reduced poults per hen numbers and some evidence of reduced harvest. Five Essential Key Takeaways Turkey populations are declining: Across the southeastern U.S., turkey populations are not thriving as they once did, prompting extensive research efforts to identify the causes and potential solutions. Habitat changes impac...

Mar 10, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 2

Meet The Hosts - BGWT 101

Key Takeaways From This Episode - Fire is Essential for Healthy Grasslands: I realized that without fire, grasslands transition into woodlands and eventually forests. Fire is a natural and necessary component for maintaining these ecosystems. - Oklahoma's Plant Diversity is Astounding: I was fascinated to learn that Oklahoma is the second most diverse state in the nation for plant species, ranging from Ponderosa pine to loblolly pine, creating a unique environment for land management. - Integrat...

Mar 10, 2025•34 min•Season 1Ep. 1

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