Jeff Hunter is the Southern Appalachian Director with National Parks Conservation Association, which is dedicated to enhancing and protecting public lands for present and future generations.
Twenty-five years ago, a thru hike on the Appalachian Trail set Jeff—then working in telecommunications in New York—down a new career path focused on conservation. Today, he’s based in Burnsville, North Carolina, and his work focuses on Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
Later in this episode, Jeff shares details on an avian study and a collaborative project focused on improving wildlife’s ability to safely cross Interstate 40 in the Pigeon River Gorge.
But first, we focus on urgent issues: the impact of the Trump Administration’s mass firing of federal workers, including those in the National Park Service, and the status of recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
You can also listen via the following outlets or on your favorite podcast platform.
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
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Important Links
National Parks Conservation Association
Congressman Chuck Edwards
Washington, D.C. office: (202) 225-6401
Senator Ted Budd
Washington, D.C. office: 202-224-3154
Senator Thom Tillis
Washington, D.C. office: (202) 224-6342
Theme Music
The song “Goa” was written by Lyndsay Pruett and performed by the Jon Stickley Trio.
On The Blue Ridge 