WRVO presents an archived edition of the popular weekly essay, The Nature of Things, from Naturalist John Weeks. Weeks was born on August 21, 1924 on a little farm in West Webster, NY. His father was a commercial artist, his mother a writer and reciter of dialect essays. His early interest in nature was fostered by his parents, his 5 siblings and his teachers.
In this episode from July 1, 1993, John Weeks urges listeners to visit Rice Creek Field Station at sunrise to hear its' woodland symphony.
In this episode originally aired, June 17, 1993, John Weeks discusses the effects television can have on the perception of nature. Humans have a biological kinship to the environment, oxygen production, carbon dioxide consumption and the water cycle, according to Weeks. Listen as he explains ways to avoid being cheated out of the uncut version of natures' wildlife.
Nearly 40 years ago John Weeks changed his ways as a floral bigot and decided to view weeds equal in beauty and purpose to noninvasive plants. This episode, originally aired June 4, 1993, addresses the importance of weeds to natures' ecosystems.
In this episode from May 31, 1991, John Weeks observes a raccoon in Baltimore Woods and makes an exciting announcement regarding Rice Creek Field Station.
Jim Anderson pays a visit to John Weeks in this episode from May 27, 1988, and the two discuss birding. Anderson shares recommendations for beginners and the importance of a decent pair of binoculars.
During a three week workshop with Diane Jackson and 15 fourth graders, John Weeks worked to collect flatworms, crustaceans and insects to teach the children about central New York’s aquatic life. In this episode from May 24, 1991, Weeks reflects on what they learned.
Flourishing green pastures have been transformed by towns and neighborhoods into swampy inhabitable forests. In this episode from May 21, 1992, John Weeks shares his experience returning wetlands to their natural state.
The former curator of education at Burnett Park Zoo, Jim Aiello, talks with John Weeks about upcoming events and new birth taking place at the Zoo. This episode is from May 20, 1988.
In this episode from May 14, 1992, John Weeks questions the power wielded by those whose jobs are saved through sloppy environmental controls. Weeks remains optimistic though, after interacting with local students.
Over the years, John Weeks' affinity for springtime and birds has become apparent. In this episode, from May 5, 1992, Weeks reflects on the lives of wild turkeys roaming the Cayuga Nature Center with depth and curiosity.
