Into the Wild
The story of South Carolina can be found in its rivers, forests, wetlands, and wildlife. Join Dr. Tom Mullikin, director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, on Into the Wild for a closer look at the natural wonders around us and the people working to preserve them.
Longleaf pine and fire
I walked through a stand of longleaf pine not long ago and noticed something most people miss - grass at the base of a pine tree.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Fiddler crabs at low tide
I was standing on a tidal creek recently at low tide, and if you've ever taken the time to look down instead of out, you know the mud is alive. Hundreds of little fiddler crabs were moving at once.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
The value of wildlife management areas
Wildlife Management Areas are more than places to hunt and fish.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Monarch butterflies and migration
Each year, monarch butterflies undertake one of the most remarkable migrations in the natural world.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
South Carolina's public lands
South Carolina is home to an incredible network of Wildlife Management Areas, state lakes, heritage preserves, and other public lands that provide opportunities for recreation, education, and conservation.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Pollinators and healthy ecosystems
Many of the foods we enjoy and plants we depend on rely on pollinators.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Freshwater fishing in SC
South Carolina's lakes and rivers offer outstanding freshwater fishing opportunities throughout the year.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Preparing for fall hunting seasons
As summer transitions into fall, many South Carolinians are preparing for hunting season. Hunting plays an important role in wildlife management by helping maintain healthy and sustainable wildlife populations.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
The importance of native plants
Late summer is a great time to appreciate the native plants that support South Carolina's wildlife.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Migratory shorebirds
As summer begins to wind down, South Carolina's beaches and coastal habitats welcome thousands of migratory shorebirds making incredible journeys along the Atlantic Flyway.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Changing coastlines
South Carolina's coastline is always changing. Beaches shift, marshes migrate, and shorelines evolve in response to tides, storms, and sea-level changes.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Prescribed fires
When people hear the word fire, they often think of destruction. But prescribed fire is one of the most important tools wildlife managers use to maintain healthy habitats.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Oyster reefs
Oysters are much more than a favorite seafood. A single oyster can filter gallons of water each day, helping improve water quality and support healthy coastal ecosystems.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Hurricane season and natural resilience
Hurricane season reminds us that South Carolina's coast is constantly changing. While storms can reshape beaches and marshes, these natural systems are remarkably resilient.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Boating safety
Summer is one of the best times to get out on South Carolina's waterways. Whether you're fishing, cruising, or enjoying time with family, safety should always come first.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Why sand dunes matter
When people think about beach protection, they often think about seawalls or engineering projects. But one of our best natural defenses is the sand dune.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Shark awareness
South Carolina's coast is home to a variety of shark species, especially during the warm summer months. While sharks often make headlines, they play an important role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Salt marshes
One of South Carolina's greatest natural treasures isn't found on the beach—it's found in our salt marshes. These vibrant ecosystems serve as nurseries for shrimp, crabs, fish, and countless other species that support our coastal economy and way of life.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Living with alligators
As temperatures rise, alligators become more active across South Carolina's waterways. Seeing an alligator in a pond, marsh, or river is a sign of a healthy ecosystem. While alligator encounters are common, conflicts are rare when people give them space and never feed them.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Sea turtle nesting season
South Carolina's beaches are bustling this time of year, and not just with visitors. Summer is peak sea turtle nesting season, when female loggerhead sea turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs.
For more from Into the Wild, visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/intothewild.
For more information about the SC Department of Natural Resources, visit dnr.sc.gov.
Coming Soon: Into the Wild
Join Dr. Tom Mullikin with SCDNR for an exploration of South Carolina's remarkable wildlife, natural resources, and outdoor traditions. From the mountains to the coast, we'll uncover stories of conservation, discovery, and stewardship while meeting the people dedicated to protecting our state's natural treasures.