Rewilding Earth Podcast: Episode 132 – Rewilding Our World – Big Ideas for Landscapes Large & Small

Release Date: September 27, 2024
Host: The Rewilding Institute
Guest: Dr. Jessica Hardesty Norris, Senior Ecologist at BioHabitats

Introduction

In Episode 132 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, hosted by The Rewilding Institute, listeners are welcomed into an in-depth conversation with Dr. Jessica Hardesty Norris, a seasoned senior ecologist at BioHabitats. With over two decades of experience in ecological restoration, strategic planning, and hands-on conservation, Jessica provides a comprehensive look into the philosophies, challenges, and innovative approaches in the field of rewilding both expansive landscapes and urban environments.

Guest Background: Jessica Hardesty Norris

Jessica begins by sharing her journey into the world of ecology and conservation. As an organismal biologist, her passion for nature was ignited early on, leading her to join the Peace Corps for extensive field experience in the tropics. Her academic pursuit continued with a Ph.D. focused on altitudinal migration in tropical hummingbirds under the mentorship of John Terborg, a notable figure frequently collaborating with pioneers in the rewilding movement.

At [02:58], Jessica recounts:

“When my husband's job moved me to Charleston, I reached out to my professor John to ask for guidance. This connection led me to Keith and ultimately to my role at BioHabitats.”

Her transition from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to a company like BioHabitats marked a significant shift, emphasizing the intersection of scientific expertise and practical conservation efforts.

BioHabitats’ Role in Rewilding

The conversation delves into BioHabitats' unique position within the conservation ecosystem. Jessica explains how the organization actively engages in both national conversations on landscape connectivity and the practical, on-the-ground decisions made by local municipalities.

At [05:19], she articulates:

“We really see a need to bridge the academic and the federal and big thinking initiatives with the local decisions, because these local decisions about land use and the local decisions about what's being allowed to be built, where are happening, whether or not they're informed by people who understand landscape scale processes.”

BioHabitats focuses on integrating large-scale ecological theories with tangible projects, ensuring that high-level strategies translate into effective local actions that foster landscape connectivity and resilience against climate change.

The Importance of Connectivity in Landscapes

A significant portion of the discussion emphasizes landscape connectivity as a cornerstone for ecological restoration. Jessica highlights the critical role connectivity plays in enabling species migration, especially in the face of climate change, and the necessity of maintaining unfragmented land corridors.

At [08:20], Jessica posits:

“One of the biggest gains that might be had is… thinking about how much healing is the right amount of healing.”

She underscores the unpredictability of economic and social changes that can present unique opportunities or challenges for restoration projects, advocating for flexibility and preparedness within conservation strategies.

Big Ideas and "What-Ifs" in Rewilding

Jessica introduces the concept of leveraging unexpected societal shifts to advance rewilding efforts. Drawing parallels to the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique, she illustrates how human-induced disruptions can sometimes lead to remarkable ecological recoveries when given the chance.

At [10:27], she reflects:

“What if there was a huge economic change where we had some sort of guaranteed minimum wage model… and needed to put in service hours in order to get it… we need to be prepared for them.”

These "what-if" scenarios encourage conservationists to think creatively about how systemic changes can either hinder or facilitate the restoration and connectivity of natural landscapes.

Philosophy of Small vs. Large Scale Restoration

Using the river and fish analogy, Jessica conveys the importance of both small-scale and large-scale restoration efforts. At [16:28], she shares:

“There’s just… do you feel good? Does it seem right that you made the right choice and saving the fish that was in front of you that day?”

This perspective emphasizes that while large-scale solutions are crucial, incremental actions at the individual or community level are equally valuable in contributing to broader ecological healing.

Practical Insights: Collaborations and Challenges

The dialogue transitions to the practical aspects of ecological restoration, particularly the dynamics between designers, contractors, and restoration ecologists. Jessica discusses the importance of collaborative relationships and the mutual learning that occurs when different stakeholders engage deeply in projects.

At [25:40], she observes:

“It’s definitely a two-way street. Like what we’ve learned from, what our designers have learned from contractors is just…”

This exchange highlights the necessity of understanding the historical and local context of landscapes, ensuring that restoration efforts are both scientifically sound and culturally sensitive.

Engaging Private Landowners in Rewilding

Addressing the growing interest among private landowners to embark on rewilding projects, Jessica outlines BioHabitats' approach to supporting these initiatives. She acknowledges the challenges landowners face in navigating conservation easements and emphasizes the need for tailored, strategic support.

At [22:23], Jessica notes:

“There’s a little bit of a difference between… people whose restoration or conservation impact on their own land might be limited… they might be better off just talking to their soil conservation districts…”

By providing professional consultations and fostering connections with local land trusts, BioHabitats aids landowners in realizing their visions for transformed, biodiverse landscapes.

Advice for Aspiring Conservationists

Concluding the interview, Jessica offers heartfelt advice to those passionate about conservation. Reflecting on her own evolving career path, she encourages flexibility and openness to unexpected opportunities.

At [28:43], she shares:

“Don’t take it very seriously. Just keep yourself on the side of things that you want to be on and it will someday come together in a configuration that you didn’t realize…”

Her journey from aspiring solitary conservationist to a collaborative ecologist underscores the importance of adaptability and the value of diverse skill sets in the field of ecological restoration.

Conclusion

Episode 132 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast presents a rich exploration of the multifaceted efforts required to rewild our planet. Through Dr. Jessica Hardesty Norris's experiences and insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between large-scale ecological theories and the practical, often nuanced actions needed to restore and connect natural landscapes. The episode underscores the significance of preparedness, collaboration, and the unwavering commitment of conservationists in the ongoing fight to heal Earth's ecosystems.

Notable Quotes:

• Jessica Hardesty Norris [00:05]:

  “There’s never enough difference. There’s just, do you feel good? Does it seem right that you made the right choice and saving the fish that was in front of you that day?”

• Host [02:20]:

  “Jessica, thanks so much for being on the Rewilding Earth podcast.”

• Jessica Hardesty Norris [10:27]:

  “What if there was a huge economic change where we had some sort of guaranteed minimum wage model… we need to be prepared for them.”

• Jessica Hardesty Norris [28:43]:

  “Don’t take it very seriously. Just keep yourself on the side of things that you want to be on and it will someday come together in a configuration that you didn’t realize.”

Further Listening: For those intrigued by Dr. Jessica Hardesty Norris's insights on ecological rebound, consider tuning into Episode 57 featuring Paola Boulay from Gorongosa National Park.

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