Safe Travels

What does it take to recover a species that was once on the brink of collapse? In this episode of Safe Travels, we travel to San Diego Bay with researchers from NOAA Fisheries' Southwest Fisheries Science Center for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's most inspiring wildlife recovery stories, the remarkable comeback of the green sea turtle. Join research biologist Dr. Cali Turner Tomaszewicz, biologist Garrett Lemons, lab technician Anna Cahill, and citizen scientist Tracy Tempest as they capture, examine, tag, and release one of San Diego Bay's resident green sea turtles. Along the way, we explore how decades of science, international conservation, and community involvement have helped reverse one of the greatest wildlife declines of the last century. You'll discover how researchers monitor turtle populations, use genetics and satellite tracking to understand migration, estimate age through bone science, and investigate the mysterious "lost years" of juvenile sea turtles. The episode also examines the new conservation challenges facing recovering populations, including climate change, warming oceans, vessel strikes, marine debris, and shifting sex ratios caused by rising nesting temperatures. Most importantly, this episode demonstrates that long-term, science-based conservation works, and that every person has a role to play in protecting our oceans. In This Episode Field research with NOAA Fisheries in San Diego Bay Capturing and safely handling wild green sea turtles Tagging, blood sampling, genetics, and satellite tracking How scientists estimate turtle age using skeletal growth rings The mystery of the sea turtle "Lost Years" Why most Southern California green turtles originate from Mexico How citizen scientists contribute to sea turtle conservation The impact of climate change on sea turtle populations Boat strikes, marine debris, and other modern threats Why the recovery of the green sea turtle is one of conservation's greatest success stories Simple actions everyone can take to help protect sea turtles Featured Guests Dr. Cali Turner Tomaszewicz Research Biologist NOAA Fisheries – Southwest Fisheries Science Center Garrett Lemmons Biologist NOAA Fisheries – Marine Turtle Ecology & Assessment Program Anna Cahill Lab Technician Marine Turtle Ecology & Assessment Program Tracy Tempest Citizen Scientist & Sea Turtle Conservation Volunteer Key Topics Green Sea Turtles Marine Conservation NOAA Fisheries Sea Turtle Research Wildlife Biology Ocean Conservation Climate Change Citizen Science Marine Ecology National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Wildlife Documentary Environmental Science If You Enjoyed This Episode: Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with someone who loves wildlife, conservation, or the ocean. Every listen helps us continue telling the stories of the scientists, rangers, and conservationists working to protect our planet.

Recorded along the banks of the Green River inside Dinosaur National Monument, Joey sits down with Dusty Perkins to explore the science, beauty, and ecological complexity of the Green and Yampa Rivers. Dusty serves as Program Manager for the National Park Service’s Northern Colorado Plateau Inventory & Monitoring Network and is a lead scientist on the Big Rivers Monitoring Project. In this conversation, he explains how scientists monitor some of the American West’s most iconic river systems, what happens when rivers are dammed and regulated, and why long-term ecological monitoring is critical for the future of these landscapes. From endangered fish and invasive species to river morphology, sediment flow, snowpack decline, and the emotional experience of rafting through canyon country, this episode offers a rare look at the science shaping our public lands. In this episode, we explore: What the Big Rivers Monitoring Project actually does How the Green and Yampa Rivers differ ecologically The impact of Flaming Gorge Dam on river systems Why sediment and seasonal flooding are essential to river health The role of invasive species like tamarisk How endangered fish species depend on natural river cycles Why long-term monitoring matters in national parks The effects of declining snowpack and aridification across the West What it’s like conducting science on multi-day rafting expeditions The emotional connection scientists develop with these landscapes Key Takeaways The Yampa River remains one of the last relatively free-flowing desert rivers in the American West. Dams dramatically alter water temperature, sediment transport, and seasonal flooding patterns. Native fish and plant species evolved over thousands of years around natural spring runoff cycles. River complexity — including back channels and floodplains — creates biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Long-term monitoring gives park managers the scientific data needed to make informed conservation decisions. Featured Locations Dinosaur National Monument Echo Park Canyonlands National Park Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Green River Yampa River Learn More Explore the work of the Northern Colorado Plateau Inventory & Monitoring Network through the National Park Service official website Learn more about Dinosaur National Monument through the National Park Service Dinosaur page

In this episode, I sit down with paleontologist Rebecca Hunt-Foster at Dinosaur National Monument to explore one of the most fascinating fossil landscapes in North America. We discuss the geology that shaped the monument, the incredible dinosaurs that once roamed the region, and what life looked like in this ancient ecosystem roughly 150 million years ago during the Late Jurassic period. Rebecca also shares insights into her career path in paleontology, her work with the National Park Service, and what it’s like studying fossils and ancient environments in the American West. The Geology of Dinosaur National Monument How the rock layers at Dinosaur National Monument were formed Why the Morrison Formation is one of the most important dinosaur-bearing formations in the world Ancient rivers, floodplains, and environmental conditions during the Jurassic How geologists and paleontologists interpret ancient landscapes from rock and fossil evidence Dinosaurs of the Jurassic The major dinosaur species discovered in the region Giant sauropods and massive predators that lived in the ecosystem Fossil discoveries that made Dinosaur National Monument famous What these animals can tell us about evolution and prehistoric ecosystems Reconstructing a 150-Million-Year-Old Ecosystem What the climate and vegetation looked like during the Late Jurassic Ancient waterways and seasonal environments Other animals that shared the ecosystem with dinosaurs How scientists piece together food webs and habitats from fossil evidence If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow dinosaur and geology enthusiasts. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Bob Krumenaker, a seasoned conservationist (over 41 years with the NPS) and former superintendent of Big Bend National Park, discusses the ecological, cultural, and political stakes involved with the proposed border wall construction in the remote, environmentally rich area of Big Bend National Park. Learn about why Big Bend is a sanctuary worth protecting and how local communities and conservation advocates are turning the tide against intrusive border infrastructure. In this episode: Bob shares his extensive career in the National Park Service and his deep connection to desert ecosystems. The unique geological and biological highlights that make Big Bend nationally significant. How border security policies threaten biodiversity, night skies, water resources, and local communities. The current status of border wall proposals and the bipartisan opposition rallying to preserve Big Bend's wild character. The legal and political efforts underway, including wilderness designation, to secure long-term protection. Practical ways for the public to get involved and support conservation efforts in their areas. Lessons from Big Bend about community cooperation and environmental advocacy. Resources & Links: Keep Big Bend Wild Big Bend National Park Official Site Wilderness Act of 1964 Border Wall Map & Updates Note: This interview sheds light on critical environmental and political issues facing public lands today. Your voice and involvement matter—learn more and take action through the links provided.

In this episode of the Safe Travels Podcast, I sit down with Jennifer Cavin, Fossil Preparator and Lab Manager at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, to explore one of the most overlooked roles in paleontology: fossil preparation. When most people think about paleontology, they picture scientists excavating fossils in the field. But behind every museum-quality fossil specimen is a highly skilled fossil preparator, the meticulous expert who stabilizes, cleans, preserves, and reconstructs fossils for scientific research and public display. In This Episode, We Cover: What a Fossil Preparator actually does in a paleontology lab The difference between field excavation and laboratory fossil preparation Mechanical prep vs. chemical prep techniques How air scribes, micro sandblasters, and adhesives are used to reveal fossils The delicate process of removing matrix without damaging bone The relationship between fossil preparators and paleontologists Why preparators are critical to peer-reviewed scientific research The physical health risks of fossil prep, including silica dust exposure and repetitive strain injuries Conservation ethics and preserving fossils for future generations Jennifer explains why fossil preparators are the unsung heroes of paleontology. Without their precision and technical expertise, many fossil discoveries, including ancient mammals like early horses, camels, and saber-toothed predators from the John Day Basin, would never be studied, published, or displayed. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

In this episode of Safe Travels, I’m joined by Dr. Nick Famoso, Paleontology Program Manager at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, for a fascinating deep dive into one of the richest fossil regions in North America. We explore the incredible geology of the John Day Basin, how millions of years of volcanic activity helped preserve ancient life, and the remarkable fossil record of prehistoric mammals that once roamed the Pacific Northwest — including some of the earliest horses, ancient rhinos, camels, and dog-like predators that filled a weasel-style ecological niche. Dr. Famoso also explains why fossil teeth are some of the most important clues paleontologists use to identify species, understand diets, and reconstruct ancient ecosystems. Whether you’re curious about paleontology careers, fossil hunting science, or the evolution of mammals, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how scientists piece together Earth’s deep past. Topics Covered Geologic history of the John Day Basin How volcanoes helped preserve fossils Evolution of early horses and mammals Ancient rhinos, camels, and carnivorous “dog-weasels” Why fossil teeth are critical to paleontology What makes John Day Fossil Beds so scientifically important Careers in paleontology and working in national parks About Safe Travels Safe Travels is a storytelling podcast focused on national parks, public lands, conservation, science, and the people who protect these places. New episodes feature park rangers, scientists, historians, and explorers from across the country. If you enjoyed this episode: Like, subscribe, and share to help more people discover the stories behind our national parks. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Have you ever wondered how a museum is built inside a national park—or what happens to the fossils once they’re discovered? In this episode of Safe Travels, we go behind the scenes at Petrified Forest National Park with Park Ranger and Museum Curator Matt Smith to explore the art, science, and storytelling behind creating a world-class paleontological and natural history museum. Matt walks us through how fossils are collected, preserved, cataloged, and interpreted, and we dive into some of the incredible museum and research collections housed at Petrified Forest National Park. From Triassic-era fossils to curated specimens rarely seen by the public, this conversation sheds light on how park collections help scientists study ancient ecosystems while educating millions of visitors. We also discuss how museum exhibits are designed to balance scientific accuracy, public education, and visual storytelling, and why national park museums play a critical role in conservation, paleontology research, and protecting public lands. Matt’s passion for paleontology, museums, and the landscapes of Petrified Forest is unmistakable throughout the episode, offering listeners a rare look at the people working behind the scenes to preserve deep time. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Prairie Dogs, Bats, and Pronghorn: The Living Landscape of Petrified Forest National Park Prairie dogs make their debut on the Safe Travels Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Park Ranger and Biologist Dylan Schneider to explore the vital role prairie dogs play in shaping the ecosystem of Petrified Forest National Park. Prairie dogs are far more than charismatic grassland mammals — they are a keystone species, influencing soil health, plant diversity, and habitat availability for countless other animals. Dylan explains how their burrows and behavior help maintain balance across the park’s high desert landscape. Our conversation also dives into Petrified Forest National Park’s acoustic monitoring program, a cutting-edge research tool used to study and track bat populations throughout the region. By analyzing soundscapes and echolocation calls, park biologists can monitor biodiversity and ecosystem health in ways that are both non-invasive and highly effective. We also spotlight one of North America’s most fascinating mammals: the pronghorn. Known as the fastest land animal in the Western Hemisphere, pronghorns have evolved extraordinary adaptations that make them perfectly suited to the open landscapes of the Southwest. While Petrified Forest National Park is world-famous for its Triassic-era fossils and petrified wood, Dylan reveals a lesser-known story — a park that is very much alive, supporting an incredible diversity of modern wildlife. From grasslands to badlands, the park remains a dynamic and thriving ecosystem shaped by biology, sound, and time. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

In this episode of the Safe Travels Podcast, I’m joined by Bill Parker, Chief of Resources and Park Historian at Petrified Forest National Park, for a wide-ranging conversation that explores the historical and logistical forces that have shaped one of America’s most iconic desert landscapes. Bill takes us beyond the park’s famous petrified wood and into the human stories tied to Route 66, early automobile tourism, and the rise of roadside Americana in northern Arizona. We dive into how Holbrook, Arizona helped inspire Pixar’s Radiator Springs , the significance of the historic REO Mountaineer, and why Petrified Forest remains one of the few national parks where Route 66 still runs directly through protected land. As Chief of Resources, Bill also explains the real-world challenges of preservation—from decades of petrified wood theft to the long-term impacts of highways, railroads, and modern transportation corridors on fragile cultural and natural resources. This episode offers a rare look at how infrastructure, tourism, and conservation intersect inside the National Park Service. Bill is an institution at Petrified Forest National Park, I'm grateful that he joined the podcast! ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Petrified Forest National Park is one of the most significant archeological landscapes in the United States, preserving evidence of human history that stretches back over 13,000 years. While the park is often associated with petrified wood and Triassic-era fossils, its cultural resources tell an equally powerful story about long-term human interaction with the land. In this episode of the Safe Travels Podcast , I’m joined by Lead Archeologist and Park Ranger Jon Hardes for an in-depth conversation on archeology at Petrified Forest National Park and why the park plays a critical role in understanding the culture of descendent communities in the region. We also explore Jon’s area of expertise in zooarcheology, a field that uses animal remains to help interpret past human behavior and environmental conditions. Finally, our discussion touches on how human relationships with natural landscapes have changed over thousands of years and what archeological evidence can reveal about those changes. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

In this episode, we explore the world of paleontology at Petrified Forest National Park with Park Ranger Adam Marsh, the park’s Lead Paleontologist. Known worldwide for its colorful petrified wood, Petrified Forest National Park is also one of the most important paleontological sites in the United States, preserving exceptionally well-preserved Triassic-era fossils dating back more than 200 million years. Ranger Adam Marsh breaks down what paleontology is, why fossil preservation at Petrified Forest is so unique, and how the park plays a leading role in modern paleontological research. We discuss major fossil discoveries at Petrified Forest National Park, including ancient reptiles such as phytosaurs and rauisuchians, and how these finds help scientists better understand prehistoric ecosystems, mass extinctions, and the evolution of life on Earth. Adam also shares his personal path to becoming a National Park Service paleontologist and what it’s like to study fossils in one of the most scientifically significant national parks in the world. This conversation highlights why Petrified Forest National Park paleontology is critical to understanding the Triassic Period and the early history of dinosaurs and their relatives. Topics Covered: Paleontology at Petrified Forest National Park Geology of the region Triassic fossils and prehistoric life Phytosaurs, rauisuchians, and ancient reptiles Why Petrified Forest is a global paleontology hotspot Fossil preservation and scientific research in national parks Life as a National Park Service paleontologist ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

In this episode of the Safe Travels Podcast, we visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas and sit down with Interpretive Park Ranger Jake Denton to explore the park’s geology, wildlife, and human history. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at 8,751 feet, and protects the world’s most complete example of a fossilized Permian-era reef—one of the most significant geologic features in North America. Ranger Jake breaks down how this ancient reef formed, what wildlife thrives in the park today, and why the Guadalupe Mountains are so important to conservation and scientific research. This conversation offers a deeper look into one of Texas’s most underrated national parks and highlights the rugged beauty and rich natural history of the Guadalupe Mountains. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

We’re back! This episode takes us to Carlsbad Caverns National Park in beautiful New Mexico, where we sit down with Park Ranger Tiffany Rugger. Tiffany serves as a Preventative Search and Rescue (PSAR) Ranger, and she joins us for a wide-ranging conversation covering the park’s incredible geology, its world-famous bat colony, surprising creatures like horsehair worms, essential park insights, and much more. It was an honor to speak with Tiffany—her depth of knowledge and passion for Carlsbad Caverns added so much to this episode. I’m grateful for her work at one of the world’s premier cave systems. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

I'm in Bend, Oregon, sitting underneath a starry night sky with a warm fire in front of me. It's been a month or so since i've shared an episode with you. So I wanted to let you all know what's been going on. Good news: there will be a lot more episodes to come. Thank you endlessly for supporting this podcast. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Sandy Steers is the Executive Director of Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV), a non-profit in Big Bear Lake, California, dedicated to protecting and preserving wildlife habitat across the 15-mile Big Bear Valley in the San Bernardino National Forest. At the heart of the valley is an active bald eagle nest—home to Jackie and Shadow. Through FOBBV’s 24/7 livestream camera, millions of viewers around the world have been able to witness the pair’s lives up close, finding joy, education, and even comfort in the process. In this episode, Sandy and I explore the incredible story of Jackie and Shadow, their eaglets Sunny and Gizmo, the challenges bald eagles face in the valley, and Sandy’s own inspiring journey to the mountains that brought her peace. Learn more about Friends of Big Bear Valley and watch the eagle livestream at friendsofbigbearvalley.org It was an honor to sit down with Sandy! I am beyond grateful for her time, and am thrilled that so many people get to connect with nature on a daily basis thanks to Jackie and Shadow. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Dr. Morgan Cable is a research scientist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. Her mission is to help answer one of humanity’s biggest questions: are we alone in the universe? In this episode, we explore how NASA uses national parks as analog sites to study the landscapes of other worlds. Dr. Cable explains how these environments provide testing grounds for new technologies designed to operate on different terrains and in alien atmospheres. Named to the American Chemical Society’s “Talented 12” in 2018, Dr. Cable has contributed to some of NASA’s most exciting missions, including Cassini-Huygens, the Mars Perseverance Rover, Europa Clipper, and the Dragonfly mission to Titan. Our conversation also dives into the mysteries of the ocean worlds Europa and Enceladus—their habitability, potential for life, and why they captivate planetary scientists. And beyond her work, we talk about Morgan’s adventurous hobbies, from surfing to mountain unicycling. It was an honor to host Dr. Morgan Cable on the podcast. Her passion, expertise, and energy are truly inspiring, and her contributions to planetary science are nothing short of remarkable. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Will Deacy is the Large Mammal Ecologist at Rocky Mountain National Park, where he plays a key role in managing some of the park’s most iconic wildlife. With a background that includes grizzly bear research on Kodiak Island in Alaska, Will brings a wealth of experience to his work with Rocky’s booming elk and moose populations—species that have flourished in the absence of natural predators. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of large mammals at Rocky Mountain National Park. Will shares insights into the ecological challenges of managing these populations and what it takes to maintain a balanced and healthy ecosystem in one of America's most beloved parks. We also chat through the importance of wetlands and riparian areas and the negative effects that large moose and elk have on these fragile ecosystems. Will is an incredible human who has accomplished so much in his role as a large mammal ecologist. I am grateful for his work and thankful for his time on this podcast. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Lukens, who has dedicated over 15 years to Rocky Mountain National Park and currently serves as the Climbing and Wilderness Program Supervisor. Mike oversees critical aspects of the park's operations, including Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts, ensuring visitor safety across its vast wilderness. Beyond his administrative role, Mike is an accomplished climber. In 2016, alongside Quinn Brett and Max Barlerin, he completed the first ascent of the "Colorado Route" on the south face of Fitz Roy in Patagonia—a challenging 500-meter climb rated at 5.11c . What You'll Learn: The diverse recreational opportunities within Rocky Mountain National Park, from technical climbs to serene backcountry adventures. Insights into the park's SAR operations and the importance of preventative measures for visitor safety. Mike's personal experiences and stories from his climbing expeditions and rescue missions. Why Listen: Gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and challenges of Rocky Mountain National Park through the eyes of a seasoned ranger and climber. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a casual park visitor, Mike's insights offer valuable perspectives on safety, exploration, and the spirit of the wilderness. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

Kyle Patterson is the Public Affairs Officer at Rocky Mountain National Park. For the past 23 years, she’s served as a Park Ranger, dedicating her career to community engagement and media relations. In this episode, Kyle and I dive into what makes Rocky Mountain one of America’s most iconic national parks. We explore the park’s rich history, how visitors experience its vast landscape, and the unique challenges and joys of protecting such a beloved place. Kyle’s passion for Rocky Mountain is undeniable. Her deep love for the park is infectious, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our conversation. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com

In this episode, I’m joined by Carole Graham and Laura Brumbaugh, two archaeologists from Mesa Verde National Park. We explore their roles within the park, what makes the Mesa Verde region such a culturally rich and significant place, and the deep, continuous human history that has unfolded here over thousands of years. I'm incredibly grateful to have had both Carole and Laura on the podcast. Their knowledge and passion for archaeology—and for sharing the stories of the people who lived in this remarkable landscape—make this a special conversation. ______________ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspod YouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspod Safetravelspod.com