University of Illinois Extension

Backyard composting
Biology Clean water Climate change Composting Environment Gardening Native plants Plastics Recycling soil health 

Can Backyard Composting Change the World?

Mike Nowak , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 2:01:23 — 57.4MB)

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We don’t know if backyard composting can change the world, but it’s a heck of a good start. Composting experts Amy Bartucci and Kate Caldwell walk you through how to set up your pile, bin or tumbler and explain why composting is such a good idea for everyone.

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Smashing Pumpkins
Podcast 

Smashing Pumpkins…Responsibly

Mike Nowak , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:53:57 — 52.2MB)

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Kay McKeen from SCARCE and Amy DeLorenzo from Illinois Extension explain the importance of rescuing Halloween pumpkins from landfills. Jerry Adelmann of Openlands reports on environmental issues affecting our region. Mike and Peggy welcome a couple of winners from the Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards 60-Second Garden Video Challenge.

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Podcast 

Jumping Worms Derangement Syndrome

Mike Nowak , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:46:04 — 50.8MB)

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Like it or not, jumping worms are moving into Illinois and the Midwest. Illinois Extension Forestry and Research Specialist Chris Evans has more on the latest headline-grabbing invasive species. Tom Nowak talks responsible–which means sustainable–investing. Julie Nowak (yes, related to Tom but not to Mike), reports the work of Citizens’ Climate Lobby and their push to get a climate change bill through Congress.

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Information from Past Shows Podcasts 

We Are the Champions

Mike Nowak , , , , , , , , , , ,

Landscape architect Thomas Rainer offers some heretical advice on what makes plants happy. Peggy and Mike welcome some winning gardeners from the Chicago Excellence in Gardening Awards ceremony.

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