The Poor Prole’s Almanac

Renowned forager and chef Hank Shaw joins us to discuss foodways, invasives, the impacts of culture on our cuisine, and how we can change the narrative around local foods. We spend some time talking about how pollution and abundance can influence how we perceive different food choices and what we can do to build better, locally-driven food systems. Hank Shaw is an American chef, author, and outdoorsman who runs the wild foods website Hunter Angler Gardener Cook. He is the author of five books Hunt Gather Cook, Duck Duck Goose, Buck Buck Moose, Pheasant Quail Cottontail and Hook Line and Supper, all wild game cookbooks. Hank has appeared on numerous television shows, including Andrew Zimmern’s Bizarre Foods.., Mike Rowe’s Somebody’s Gotta Do It, Steven Rinella’s Meateater, and Randy Newberg’s Fresh Tracks. Check out Hank's work at huntgathercook.com & find him on Instagram @Huntgathercook To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

The butternut walnut is arguably the least known nut tree across eastern North America. Often called the white walnut or the oil nut, it grows throughout the northeastern United States. Once a prized tree for furniture-making, carving, and boats, as well as the delicious nuts, it’s mostly been lost to history today. Unfortunately, its story is similar to the American Chestnut. Butternut Canker Disease (caused by the fungus Ophiognomonia clavigignenti-juglandacearum), was first discovered in the 1960’s (although it may have been in American forests earlier) and has slowly decimated butternut populations across the country, with few regions to the north still showing little signs of butternut canker. In this episode, we review this history of the butternut, the problems with hybridizing it, and the future of the butternut in North America!   Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/the-forgotten-butternut   To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

In this episode, we're joined by author and historian Katy Morlas Shannon to discuss her book "Antoine of Oak Alley". The story of Antoine is emblematic of countless enslaved people whose lives and contributions have been overlooked. Antoine, the enslaved gardener of Oak Alley Plantation, was one of the first people to successfully propagate the pecan tree, yet he exists only as a footnote in the bigger story of Oak Alley Plantation. His pioneering work enabled large groves of trees to be planted creating a lucrative commercial crops and though his horticultural achievement has long been legend, virtually nothing is known about his life. In this episode, we chat about how we reconstruct these types of histories and how we engage with these complicated stories from a vastly different time. Check out Katy's work and other books at: https://www.katymshannon.com/   Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/pecans   To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

Nearly every person reading this has tasted the pecan, a marked difference from every other tree crop subject we have covered so far in this series. Pecans are without a doubt the most successful native commercial nut crop in North America, but what most folks don’t know is that this status is a relatively new phenomenon. In fact, unlike the other tree crops we’ve covered so far, the pecan has debatably had the least amount of human interference of any nut crop in North America. In many ways, the pecan was for generations the definition of what a sustainable, passive native agroforestry system could look like to feed communities healthy food with minimal inputs. In this episode, we jump into the complex history of the pecan, from its indigenous use to its first grafting by an enslaved man named Antoine to the role the government played in making it a staple across grocery shelves throughout the world.   Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/pecans   To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/    

Unlock the secrets to cultivating nut trees in the unforgiving cold climates of central Vermont with Buzz Ferver of A Perfect Circle Farm. In this episode, we promise you'll gain insights into Buzz's journey of overcoming skepticism to successfully grow a diverse range of edible nut trees and shrubs. Discover the meticulous process Buzz employs to select resilient plant genetics, inspired by historical tree crop pioneers, and learn how his dedication has led to the development of hardy seedlings capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. Experience the challenges and triumphs of nursery bed management through Buzz's innovative techniques for identifying and nurturing vigorous tree varieties, particularly persimmons. With a focus on adaptability and cold resistance, Buzz shares the trials and successes of finding standout cultivars like Granger and Hess. You'll be intrigued by the unique methods Buzz employs in nursery bed preparation and rootstock selection, which prioritize healthy root systems and weed management without herbicides, all while embracing sustainable agricultural practices. Join us as Buzz reveals the fascinating dynamics between grafted oaks and wildlife interactions, offering a glimpse into his endeavors with oaks like Dale's Giant and sweet varieties such as Ashworth and Hershey. Buzz also delves into his strategies for maintaining a social media presence to engage with the community, illustrating the importance of support in his agricultural journey. This episode offers a compelling look at how one farmer's passion and commitment to his craft are shaping the future of sustainable, cold-climate agriculture. Buzz has worked for 30 years as a consultant to farming operations on every scale, designing and developing on-farm composting as appropriate technology. Buzz has been managing a nursery for tree crops for a decade, and has developed a unique collection of improved native crops as well as some non-native species. In our interview, he mentions a hard-to-find book around tree selections, check out the link below for a free copy: https://www.songonline.ca/songnews/nutgrowing.html Check out Buzz's nursery at perfectcircle.farm To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Nut Trees, Cold Climate, Central Vermont, Buzz Ferver, A Perfect Circle Farm, Edible, Skepticism, Resilient Plant Genetics, Historical Tree Crop Pioneers, Hardy Seedlings, Harsh Weather Conditions, Nursery Bed Management, Persimmons, Adaptability, Cold Resistance, Granger, Hess, Nursery Bed Preparation, Rootstock Selection, Sustainable Agricultural Practices, Grafted Oaks, Wildlife Interactions, Dale's Giant, Ashworth, Hershey, Social Media Presence, Community Engagement, Sustainable Agriculture, Cold-Climate Agriculture, Farm Cultivar Selection, Nursery Bed Management Techniques, Nursery Bed Preparation and Efficiency, Nursery Bed Management and Rootstock Selection, Exploring Tree Crop Selection and Outreach, Colorful Home Furnishings, Community Investment

If the oak tree is the tree that fed the world, Hickories are the tree that helped humans thrive in North America. Across eastern North America until only 300 or so years ago, hickories were the staple crop consumed most commonly. Like the oaks, their mast years drove the successes of communities, and even until recently, there were records of thin-shelled hickories that were likely planted and protected by indigenous people. To eat a hickory nut is to taste thousands of years of history on the continent. For the uninitiated, hickory nuts are a treat; they can mostly similarly be compared to pecans, which is unsurprising given that they are so closely related they can interbreed (and hicans are an area of breeding worth exploring for several reasons). Hickories, specifically from shagbark hickories, have a subtle, maple flavor which underscores the pecan-esque flavor. The hard part is getting to the nut itself. While we call hickories and pecans nuts, they are referred to as drupes or drupaceous nuts rather than true botanical nuts because they grow within an outer husk. The scientific term, tryma, is how these unique types of fruits are classified. This can seem confusing at first, but if we consider the husk as an inedible fruit and the nuts the pit, they’re much easier to understand and categorize. In this episode, we dive into the history of hickories, their misunderstood use on the landscape, why folks should care a whole lot more about them, and what the future of the hickory is on the American landscape! Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/hickories?utm_source=profile&utm_medium=reader2 To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

Join us on a captivating exploration into the world of hazelnut cultivation with Dr. Thomas Molnar from Rutgers University, a leading figure in the hazelnut breeding program. Guided serendipitously into this field under the mentorship of Dr. Funk, Dr. Molnar shares his journey from turfgrass to nut tree breeding and unveils the rich history and nutritional benefits of hazelnuts. We unravel the complexities of tackling Eastern Filbert Blight and clarify misconceptions surrounding its impact on both native and European hazelnut varieties. Embark on a 25-year journey of innovation and patience as we uncover the intricate process of developing new hazelnut cultivars like Raritan, the Beast, Somerset, and Hunterdin. Dr. Molnar sheds light on the challenges faced in breeding plants for diverse climates and the promise of hazelnuts as a viable crop for the Northeast. Through collaborations with local chefs and bakers, these fresh and flavorful nuts are making their mark on the market, fueling optimism for their future role in agriculture. As hazelnuts emerge as a high-value agricultural product, we explore their potential across diverse climates and consumer demands. From their use in candies and pastes to the promise of oil production, these nuts offer an exciting opportunity for both traditional and non-traditional farmers. Discover the collaborative efforts among renowned universities and institutions, aiming to identify adaptable hazelnut varieties for various environments, ensuring their success in future food systems. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, hazelnuts are poised to become a staple in local agriculture. Thomas Molnar received his PhD from Rutgers University in 2006. He is currently an Associate Professor in the Plant Biology Department of the Rutgers University School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA). His research program concentrates on the genetic improvement and study of hazelnuts (Corylus) and large-bracted dogwoods (Cornus). Part of this work includes germplasm exploration, collection, and evaluation. A major aspect of his current research is developing and characterizing genetic resistance to eastern filbert blight, a fungal disease which is the primary limiting factor of hazelnut production in the eastern North America. Check out the Rutgers Hazelnut research program at: https://research.rutgers.edu/agricultural-products/hazelnuts For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Hazelnut Cultivation, Dr. Thomas Molnar, Rutgers University, Hazelnut Breeding Program, Eastern Filbert Blight, Nut Tree Breeding, Hazelnut Varieties, Hazelnut Production, Hazelnut Cultivar Selection, Hazelnut Disease Resistance, Hazelnut Research, Hazelnut Market, Hazelnut Oil Production, Hazelnut Consumption, Sustainable Agriculture, Hazelnut Collaborations, Hazelnut Germplasm, Hazelnut Testing, Hazelnut Legacy Project

In this episode, we dive into the history and use of the American hazelnut. Often an afterthought in nut production, the American hazelnut offers significant potential as a food crop while also offering critical ecosystem services. We compare its production to other tree crops and discuss where breeding work for American hazelnuts should focus to bring this plant back into food crop discussions.   Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/the-american-hazelnut To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

Unlock the secrets of one of America's forgotten tree heroes, the Ozark chinkapin, as we chat with Steve Bost, the passionate founder of the Ozark Chinkapin Foundation. Discover the compelling story of this majestic tree, once thriving in our forests, now on the brink of vanishing due to the devastating chestnut blight. Steve shares insights into the extensive research and DNA studies being conducted to unravel the genetic mysteries of the Ozark chinkapin and the foundation's relentless efforts in preserving its legacy against the odds. Explore the vital role human activity plays in both the spread and control of invasive species that threaten our native ecosystems. We highlight the resilient nature of the Ozark chinkapin, which could hold clues to climate adaptability and ecological restoration. This episode sheds light on the complexities of breeding programs designed to foster trees with blight resistance and drought tolerance, while also revealing surprising allies like neotropical birds that contribute to these ecological endeavors. Join us on a journey through history and ecology, as we rediscover the interconnectedness of species like the American buffalo and native plants, shaped by traditional conservation practices. Steve and his team not only focus on the science but also emphasize the importance of community involvement in restoration efforts. Learn how you can become part of this crucial mission to protect our natural heritage and support the Ozark Chinkapin Foundation's inspiring work. If you're unfamiliar with the chinquapin, you can check out the previous episode or read the piece linked below to learn more! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/chinquapins To learn more about the Ozark Chinquapin Foundation, check out the following link: https://ozarkchinquapinmembership.org/ To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Ozark Chinkapin, Tree, Foundation, Conservation, Invasive Species, Ecosystem, Genetic Research, DNA Studies, Chestnut Blight, Native Plant Species, Breeding Programs, Climate Adaptability, Ecological Restoration, American Buffalo, Traditional Conservation Practices, Community Involvement, Environmental Changes, Donations, Volunteering, Awareness

In this episode, we dive into the history of the forgotten chinquapin and what new research tells us about its diversity and actual range. For folks unfamiliar, the chinquapin is often considered the smaller cousin of the American Chestnut, despite the fact that research today suggests that isn't the whole story. We're talking about the Ozark, Allegheny, and the Alabama chinquapins and what role these trees can play in our climate-change driven future!   Check out the corresponding substack article for resources, citations, and more information! https://poorprolesalmanac.substack.com/p/chinquapins  To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac  For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/