The Appalachian Mosaic: Linking Landscapes for a Resilient Future

From Nature is the Solution by The Nature Conservancy

March 17, 2026 · 27 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of connected Appalachian ecosystems for wildlife, people, and climate resilience.

This episode explores why connected Appalachian ecosystems are essential for wildlife, people and climate resilience. TNC joins partners from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and local Berkshire Wildlife Linkage community partners along the Interstate I‑90 corridor. Together, they examine how this major roadway intersects a 2,000‑mile biodiversity corridor and discuss designing infrastructure that reduces barriers, supports wildlife movement, protects public safety and strengthens a thriving, connected Appalachian landscape. Host: Barbara Charry, Director of Rivers and Lands Also featuring: Heather Furman, Appalachians Program Director; Angela Sirois-Pitel, Watershed Conservation Manager; Dave Paulson and Lindsey Forg, Massachusetts Department of Transportation; Meredyth Babcock, Wild & Scenic Westfield River Committee; Jane Winn, former Executive Director, Berkshire Environmental Action Team. Learn more about TNC's work in the Appalachians and Berkshire Wildlife Linkage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Barbara Charry

Guests: Heather Furman, Angela Sirois-Pitel, Dave Paulson, Lindsey Forg, Meredyth Babcock, Jane Winn

Topics covered

ecosystems
wildlife
climate resilience
infrastructure
biodiversity
community partnerships

Keywords

Appalachian ecosystems
wildlife movement
climate resilience
biodiversity corridor
infrastructure design

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Nature Conservancy, Massachusetts Department of Transportation

Places: Appalachian, Berkshire, Interstate I‑90, Westfield River, Berkshire Environmental Action Team