Grasslands, Indigenous History, and Finding Your Passion with Dr. Gabrielle Patterson

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Laura and Nic interview Dr. Gabrielle Patterson, historian at the Southeastern Grasslands Institute, to explore the forgotten history of America’s grasslands, the role of Indigenous fire stewardship, and how historical research can support modern conservation efforts. From uncovering centuries-old journals and maps to finding a career fueled by passion, this episode reveals how the landscapes of the past continue to shape the future of restoration and environmental stewardship.

Welcome back to Environmental Professionals Radio, Connecting the Environmental Professionals Community Through Conversation, with your hosts Laura Thorne and Nic Frederick! 

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This podcast is produced by the National Association of Environmental Professions (NAEP). Check out all the NAEP has to offer at NAEP.org.

Connect with Gabrielle Patterson at gabrielle.patterson@segrasslands.org

Guest Bio:
Dr. Gabrielle Patterson serves as SGI’s Historian, specializing in environmental, natural, and Indigenous history. Her research focuses on the historical distribution of grasslands across the Southeastern United States and how landscapes have shaped human activities over time. She conducts historical and archival research, compiles historical maps, and develops GIS-based analyses to support SGI’s mission of saving the forgotten grasslands of the Southeast. Gabrielle holds an M.A. in History with a concentration in Native American History, an M.Ed. in Community College Leadership, and an Ed.D. in Adult and Lifelong Learning from the University of Arkansas. She enjoys golfing, hiking, hunting, traveling, and spending time with her two dogs.

Music Credits
Intro: Givin Me Eyes by Grace Mesa
Outro: Never Ending Soul Groove by Mattijs Muller

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