| Sam Warnock, April 2025
How Dam Removals Sustain & Enhance Natural Capital - Part Two
In the first part of our series, we explored the historical significance of dams and the myriad benefits they have provided over the centuries, from hydroelectric power to flood control. We also highlighted the serious environmental drawbac...
| Sam Warnock, April 2025
How Dam Removals Sustain & Enhance Natural Capital - Part One
While dams provide significant benefits, such as reliable water sources and energy with relatively low maintenance costs, these advantages often come at a cost to the environment. Dams can disrupt ecosystems, alter river flows, and generall...
| Natalie Davis, August 2024
Building Confidence in Conservation: Natalie Davis's Journey with Unique Places to Save
When I graduated from University of North Carolina in December of 2020, I did what most fresh college graduates do and I started looking for a job in the environmental science field rather aimlessly. When I saw the job listing from Unique P...
| Christine Pickens, August 2024
Why Do Wetlands Smell Bad?
The wetland superpower behind the stink and why you’ll be saying, “Oh no, my feet smell cheesy!” Experiencing nature can become enlightening when we use our five senses. In the case of wetlands, using your sense of smell can also help you u...
| Christine Pickens, March 2024
Exploring the Diverse Ecosystem & Wildlife of the Deep River
Rivers are not just conduits of life-sustaining water; they are also bustling ecosystems teeming with diverse wildlife. From the majestic bald eagle to the sleek river otter, free-flowing rivers provide habitats for an abundance of species....
| Christine Pickens, February 2024
Rivers Through the Seasons: A Majestic Journey of Flowing Water
Rivers are part of the fundamental support system for our environment and an essential part of the framework for economies and societies worldwide. Their importance cannot be overstated, yet their significance is often overlooked. In this b...
| Christine Pickens, February 2024
How Healthy Rivers Impact Us & Our Local Communities
Rivers are the lifeblood of our communities, providing invaluable benefits that extend far beyond their flowing waters. In the United States, a network of rivers crisscrosses the landscape, offering many advantages to both people, the econo...
| Sam Warnock, February 2024
Capturing the Beauty of Rivers: An Introductory Guide for Photographers
Rivers, ever-changing and full of life, open a world of opportunities for new and experienced photographers alike. Each day brings a new scene, a different mood, and a story waiting to be told. In this short guide, we'll dive into practical...
| Sam Warnock, February 2024
Waterfowl Hunting & Healthy Rivers: Sustaining a Tradition for All Ages
Waterfowl hunting, often embraced as a heritage sport, transcends mere recreation, especially in the context of environmental conservation. At the heart of this activity lies the health of our river ecosystems, which are crucial for sustain...
| Nathan Phillips, January 2024
Christine Pickens | Science Director
Dr. Christine Pickens is a wetland ecologist with over 15 years of experience in ecological research, restoration project management, and partnership building on projects in North Carolina, Louisiana, Ohio, Georgia, and California.