For millennia, the swaying wildflowers, iridescent insects and soaring songbirds of the Prairie grasslands have captured the hearts of communities across the continent. Although much of those original grasslands have been lost, there are still some who cherish and protect the remaining fragments. We set out to hear their stories, stand among the waving grasses and discover what makes Prairie grasslands in Manitoba so special. Over its four episodes, Where the Bluestem Grows will take you from the windswept Prairies of western Manitoba, to the coziness of a woodstove conversation as we explore what this ecosystem has to offer.
*This project was undertaken with the support of Environment and Climate Change Canada*
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For millennia, the swaying wildflowers, iridescent insects and soaring songbirds of the Prairie grasslands have captured the hearts of communities across the continent. Although much of those original grasslands have been lost, there are still some who cherish and protect the remaining fragments. We set out to hear their stories, stand among the waving grasses and discover what makes Prairie grasslands in Manitoba so special. Over its four episodes, Where the Bluestem Grows will take you from the windswept Prairies of western Manitoba, to the coziness of a woodstove conversation as we explore what this ecosystem has to offer.
*This project was undertaken with the support of Environment and Climate Change Canada*
Leanne Zacharias and Koda Maxon have been tuning into the Prairies’ dawn chorus their entire lives, and have both committed their careers to telling stories through music. From the distant echoes of a receding glacier, to swirling barn swallows overhead, these artists are exploring their relationship with nature and inviting others to join in the song.
They don’t make honey, they aren’t all striped, and most have no interest in stinging you. But, they’re bees nonetheless, and Sherry Punak-Murphy can’t get enough of these tiny inhabitants of the mixed-grass prairie. Biologist by day and Brandon community advocate by... also day, discover her quest to turn B-City into a Bee-City.
For millennia, grasslands have been a place of growth and healing, and the story of Ken Norquay and Gordon Beddome is a testament to this power. Join us and hear how this Anishinaabe cultural support worker and cattle producer got to know one another, and how their mutual generosity and connection to the prairie have made amazing things possible for their community.
A note: This episode deals with history that may be difficult to listen to. Take care as you listen.
For as long as he can remember, Zane Fredbjornson has wanted to work with livestock. From horses to cattle, he’s been a fixture on the prairies for decades, taking care of these animals and the land they depend on. Tune in and uncover the surprising connection between endangered prairie birds and sustainable grazing, as seen through the eyes of someone who’s made that connection his livelihood.
For millennia, the swaying wildflowers, iridescent insects and soaring songbirds of the Prairie grasslands have captured the hearts of communities across the continent. Although much of those original grasslands have been lost, there are still some who cherish and protect the remaining fragments. We set out to hear their stories, stand among the waving grasses and discover what makes Prairie grasslands in Manitoba so special. Over its four episodes, Where the Bluestem Grows will take you from the windswept Prairies of western Manitoba, to the coziness of a woodstove conversation as we explore what this ecosystem has to offer.
*This project was undertaken with the support of Environment and Climate Change Canada*
