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Native snails in Hawai`i face a multitude of threats from many directions. Habitat loss and pressure from invasive species are pushing these beautiful and culturally significant mollusks to the brink of extinction. We sat down with Dr. David Sischo, coordinator of the Snail Extinction Prevention Program, to talk about current conservation efforts focused on protecting these snails, why certain families of snails have experienced a near 90% reduction in total species diversity, and why these little snails are regarded as some of the best singers on these islands. Conservation Talk Story is a storytelling forum for conservationists in Hawaii. We host experts on topics covering every aspect of conservation science, including mitigating human impacts, protecting rare species, and public education. Our goal is not only to increase awareness regarding specific conservation issues in the state but also to provide correct information, backed by science, to our listeners so they are equipped to make decisions about sustainability and conservation in their own lives. Hosted by Max Bendes, Conservation Talk Story is brought to you by the Hawai`i chapter of The Society for Conservation Biology (HISCB) with support from KTUH.

Coral reef ecosystems are some of the most beautiful and diverse ecosystems to be found on our planet. Many players contribute to keeping these reefs healthy and vibrant. But, the contribution of a certain group of coral reef herbivores is often overlooked. These "ocean lawnmowers" keep coral clean and healthy by eating up all the algae and the byproduct is the very sand that comprises our beaches! We sit down with Dr. Mark Hixon, esteemed professor at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, to talk about coral ecology, science communication, and why we love our oceans so much. Conservation Talk Story is a storytelling forum for conservationists in Hawaii. We host experts on topics covering every aspect of conservation science, including mitigating human impacts, protecting rare species, and public education. Our goal is not only to increase awareness regarding specific conservation issues in the state but also to provide correct information, backed by science, to our listeners so they are equipped to make decisions about sustainability and conservation in their own lives. Hosted by Emily Sesno and Max Bendes, Conservation Talk Story is brought to you by the Hawaii chapter of The Society for Conservation Biology (HISCB) with support from KTUH.

Invasive species pose a serious threat to native ecosystems in Hawai'i. In this episode, we profile the successful eradication of invasive rats (and rabbits) and the rehabilitation of native plant and bird species on Lehua Island. Delving into the goals, practices, and ethics of invasive species management with the woman who oversaw the project herself, Ecologist Mele Khalsa. Conservation Talk Story is a storytelling forum for conservationists in Hawaii. We host experts on topics covering every aspect of conservation science, including mitigating human impacts, protecting rare species, and public education. Our goal is not only to increase awareness regarding specific conservation issues in the state but also to provide correct information, backed by science, to our listeners so they are equipped to make decisions about sustainability and conservation in their own lives. Hosted by Emily Sesno and Max Bendes, Conservation Talk Story is brought to you by the Hawaii chapter of The Society for Conservation Biology (HISCB) with support from KTUH.

We're always talking about protecting and preserving native plants. But why? What do they do that makes them so valuable compared to alien species? We explore just what's so special about native plants and their role in Hawaiian ecosystems with help from Conservationist Jane Beachy, Manager of the Army Natural Resources Program. Conservation Talk Story is a storytelling forum for conservationists in Hawaii. We host experts on topics covering every aspect of conservation science, including mitigating human impacts, protecting rare species, and public education. Our goal is not only to increase awareness regarding specific conservation issues in the state but also to provide correct information, backed by science, to our listeners so they are equipped to make decisions about sustainability and conservation in their own lives. Hosted by Emily Sesno and Max Bendes, Conservation Talk Story is brought to you by the Hawaii chapter of The Society for Conservation Biology (HISCB) with support from KTUH.

Ever wonder how mongooses came to the Hawaiian Islands? Do you want to know more about coral reef ecology and the challenges facing coral researchers? In this episode, Max and Emily tell two stories. First, the story of mongoose introduction and the dangers of invasive species in Hawaii. And second, closing the loop on coral reef ecology and how scientific egos can get in the way of community engagement. It's a conservation double-feature!

Microplastics pose a serious threat to the well-being of Hawaii's beaches, harming both people and ocean creatures alike. We sit down with Trashologist Ray Aivazian to talk about his new method for separating these pollutants from beach sand, as well as taking a deep dive into the impacts of microplastics in Hawaii and the science behind it all. Hosted by Max Bendes and Emily Sesno.