In this episode, Tammie Lee Demler welcomes ecologist and Stewardship Director Josh Balisteri of the Western New York Land Conservancy. Balisteri explains the Conservancy’s mission to permanently protect and manage lands with significant ecological value, from wetlands and forests to agricultural properties. He discusses conservation easements, trail design, wildlife management, invasive species control, and the challenges of balancing public access with environmental protection. The conversation also explores the importance of biodiversity, the impact of deer overpopulation on forest health, and the Conservancy’s effort to protect the ecologically significant Bear Lake property in Chautauqua County. Listeners are encouraged to support conservation efforts through volunteering, attending the organization’s Conservation Celebration event, and helping preserve Western New York’s natural landscapes for future generations.

In this episode, Tammie Lee Demler welcomes ecologist and Stewardship Director Josh Balisteri of the Western New York Land Conservancy. Balisteri explains the Conservancy&rsquo;s mission to permanently protect and manage lands with significant ecological value, from wetlands and forests to agricultural properties. He discusses conservation easements, trail design, wildlife management, invasive species control, and the challenges of balancing public access with environmental protection. The conversation also explores the importance of biodiversity, the impact of deer overpopulation on forest health, and the Conservancy&rsquo;s effort to protect the ecologically significant Bear Lake property in Chautauqua County. Listeners are encouraged to support conservation efforts through volunteering, attending the organization&rsquo;s Conservation Celebration event, and helping preserve Western New York&rsquo;s natural landscapes for future generations.

716 Together is a weekly audio town hall designed to inform, inspire and empower our community on the social, economic and health issues that affect Buffalo and Western New York. Hosted by personalities from 103.3 The Edge, Classic Hits 104.1 and 97 Rock, join us for new episodes every week featuring engaging conversation with a wide scope of local leaders addressing the most relevant topic of the day.

 

716 Together is a weekly audio town hall designed to inform, inspire and empower our community on the social, economic and health issues that affect Buffalo and Western New York. Hosted by personalities from 103.3 The Edge, Classic Hits 104.1 and 97 Rock, join us for new episodes every week featuring engaging conversation with a wide scope of local leaders addressing the most relevant topic of the day.
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