Explore the inspiring history of The Dawes Arboretum, a remarkable living museum of trees founded in 1929 by husband-and-wife conservationists Beeman Dawes and Bertie Dawes.

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection Podcast, historian Leslie Wagner shares how the Dawes family transformed farmland into one of America’s most beloved arboretums. Hear how their early experiments in tree planting and reforestation—including planting 50,000 trees by 1929—helped shape a lasting conservation legacy.

In celebration of Women's History Month, the conversation also highlights the contributions of Bertie Dawes, whose passion for gardening, landscape beauty, and documentation helped shape the arboretum’s early character and lasting horticultural legacy.

From environmental education and youth engagement to bird habitat preservation and seasonal beauty, discover how The Dawes Arboretum continues to inspire conservation, community connection, and a deeper appreciation for the importance of trees.

🌿 Learn more about the arboretum: https://www.dawesarb.org/

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend," "Garden Gossip," Parks & Travel," and "Women Making History" Podcast. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features travel photographer Houston Vandergriff and his mother Katie Vandergriff, who recently served as artists-in-residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park through the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).

Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, Houston is a passionate travel photographer who has visited all 50 U.S. states, over 30 countries, and countless destinations around the world. Houston also happens to have Down syndrome, and through his photography he shares a powerful message of inclusion, compassion, and possibility.

In this inspiring conversation, Houston and Katie discuss their journey applying for artist residencies, their experiences exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and their advocacy for greater accessibility in national parks and travel destinations. They talk about how photography allows Houston to communicate his unique perspective on the world, and how travel and art can break down barriers while encouraging people to think beyond limitations.

The discussion also explores the importance of inclusive outdoor experiences, accessible trails, and how creative storytelling can help change perceptions about disability. Through their work, Houston and Katie hope to inspire others to explore the world, embrace new adventures, and recognize that every life has value and every person has worth.

Houston’s photography reflects his personal mission: to help make the world a better place through art, travel, and compassion.

Houston and Katie’s story highlights how creativity, perseverance, and community support can open doors to meaningful opportunities—both in national parks and far beyond.

LEARN MORE: - Houston’s photography and travel stories: https://www.downsandtowns.com/

- National Parks Arts Foundation and their artist residency programs in parks across the country: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/

- NEW "Artists in Parks" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/

- Listen to more Big Blend Radio “Toast to The Parks & Arts” episodes: https://parks-arts.podbean.com/

Spring brings vibrant color and fresh adventures to California’s Sequoia Country in Tulare County. In this episode, we explore wildflower viewing, native plant gardens, spring festivals, and scenic outdoor destinations that showcase the region’s natural beauty.

Learn about wildflower hotspots, meadow landscapes, and family-friendly trails, along with conservation efforts that protect native plants and strengthen local ecosystems. The conversation also highlights community celebrations and unique events that bring residents and visitors together each spring.

From the Tule River Parkway and Dry Creek Preserve to blooming meadows in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, discover how spring transforms the landscape into a colorful playground for hikers, photographers, gardeners, and nature lovers.

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include: * Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm * Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ * Cathy Capone - Tule River Parkway Association https://www.tuleriverparkwayassociation.org/

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/

NEW! CHECK OUT THE "CALIFORNIA SEQUOIA COUNTRY" DIGITAL PODCAST MAGAZINE: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/lhko/#p=1

THIS EPISODE is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend", "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," "Nature Connection" and "Garden Gossip" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Photos: VisitVisalia.com & Big Blend Media