Conservation Stories

Dusty Timmons visits with attorney and conservation advocate Cole Payne about the changing landscape of Texas land use. From wind and solar leases to battery storage, data centers, remediation requirements, and long-term landowner protections, Cole explains why landowners need to understand the details before signing agreements that could shape their property for generations. The conversation also turns toward conservation easements and the importance of preserving working lands, wildlife habitat, and outdoor traditions. Cole shares how programs like Texas Brigades are helping young people connect with natural resources, build leadership skills, and carry conservation forward into the future.

Tillery Timmons-Sims visits with Will Masters of Ogallala Life Conservation to learn about landscape rehydration work happening in the Amarillo area. Will shares how his team is using natural materials like rocks, brush, trees, and old Christmas trees to build small “leaky dam” structures that slow runoff, capture sediment, and help water soak back into dryland creek systems. From Wildcat Bluff Nature Center to Rock Creek in Borger, this conversation explores how small, place-based restoration projects can improve watershed health, reduce flooding, support vegetation, and create hope for a more water-secure High Plains. It’s a reminder that conservation does not always come from one silver bullet, but from many small efforts that add up over time. More about our guest:  Will Masters. Attorney. Environmental Educator at Wildcat Bluff Nature Center. Director at Ogallala Life (now a program of Ogallala Commons) Instagram - ogallalalife & wmasters3 Website - www.ogallala.life For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Dusty Timmons visits with Michael Scherer of Fishing’s Future to talk about helping families discover the outdoors through fishing, education, and conservation. Michael shares how the organization began as a way to teach families together, not just kids, and how its programs have grown to include family fish camps, school partnerships, adaptive fishing opportunities, ambassador training, and hands-on conservation education. This conversation explores why fishing is more than catching fish. It is a way to build memories, reconnect generations, teach responsibility for natural resources, and give families the confidence to keep going outdoors together long after the first cast.

Tillery Timmons-Sims welcomes back Ladonna Clayton for a conversation about groundwater conservation, agricultural transition, and what it takes to protect the Ogallala Aquifer before the well runs dry. Ladonna shares how her work in eastern New Mexico is helping producers voluntarily retire irrigation wells, conserve water, and transition to new forms of agricultural production without leaving families or communities behind. The episode explores incentive-based water conservation, conservation easements, aquifer rebound data, the role of state and federal funding, and the possibility of a “CRP for water” approach that could help farmers, ranchers, municipalities, and rural economies adapt for the future. More about our guest:  Ladona Clayton, Executive Director, Ogallala and & Water Conservancy Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Dr.LKC/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ladona-clayton-8a98a423/ Website - ogalwc.org For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Dusty Timmons visits with Dana Dykema of the Ignite Podcast and Women Hunt to talk about her path into hunting as an adult, beginning with a desire to better understand where her food comes from. Dana shares how her work connecting local farmers with consumers led her into conversations about regenerative agriculture, conservation, and eventually hunting as a deeper expression of food responsibility. The conversation follows Dana’s first hunt, her family’s growing interest in the outdoors, the challenges of learning as an adult-onset hunter in Canada, and the community she has found through Women Hunt, the Wild Sheep Foundation, and the Ignite Podcast. It’s a story about food, family, courage, and finding your place in the conservation world.

Tillery Timmons-Sims visits with Mark Funderburk, president and CEO of UMC Health System, to talk about healthcare, leadership, service, and the role UMC plays across Lubbock and the surrounding region. Mark shares his personal path into healthcare, UMC’s mission as a public hospital, and the importance of building a sustainable culture where employees, patients, and communities feel supported. The conversation explores rural healthcare, regional medical access, trauma and burn care, EMS, cancer treatment, urgent care, employee well-being, and the long-term investments needed as Lubbock continues to grow. It’s a meaningful look at how healthcare, community, stewardship, and service intersect in West Texas. More about our guest:  Mark Funderburk, President & CEO, UMC Health System For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Dusty Timmons sits down with longtime Texas fly fishing guide and conservation advocate Chuck Naiser to talk about the decades-long work of protecting the Texas Gulf Coast. From the early fight to stop commercial gill netting of redfish and trout to Chuck’s current work with FlatsWorthy and oyster reef preservation, this conversation explores what it takes to defend a natural resource before it reaches the tipping point. Chuck shares the history, hard lessons, and persistence behind coastal conservation efforts, including the creation of oyster reef sanctuary areas, the importance of healthy bay ecosystems, and why responsible stewardship matters for anglers, communities, and future generations.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery sits down with Marshall Tolleson of HSI Water to talk about irrigation water, soil salinity, and the chemistry behind healthier fields. Marshall shares his path from ag research and extension work to helping bring sulfur-based water treatment technology to Texas, explaining how sulfurous acid systems can help reduce salt buildup, improve infiltration, support nutrient availability, and make every inch of irrigation water work harder. More about our guest:Marshall TollesonWebsiteText SALTY to 9792322528Email For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Tillery Timmons-Sims is joined by her brother, Dusty Timmons, for a behind-the-scenes introduction to a new series of interviews recorded at a hunting and fishing lodge gathering conservation leaders, outdoor advocates, podcasters, and nonprofit voices from across the country. Dusty shares stories from his weekend of recording 11 conversations, covering everything from great white sharks in the Gulf of Mexico and desert bighorn sheep in Texas to oyster reef restoration, women in hunting, veterans on the water, family fishing programs, and the power of simply getting people outdoors. This episode sets the stage for an upcoming run of conversations about conservation, community, access, and the ripple effects that happen when people see a need and decide to do something about it.

Leah Duzy returns to Conservation Stories for a practical conversation about the changing intersection of pesticides, endangered species protections, and EPA label requirements. Leah and Tillery discuss new herbicide, insecticide, and rodenticide strategies, what growers may start seeing on pesticide labels, and how mitigation practices like buffers, cover crops, no-till, and runoff management can help keep farms compliant. They also talk through the challenges of managing requirements field by field, the role of state enforcement, and why reading the label matters whether you’re farming hundreds of acres or spraying weeds in your own backyard. More about our guest:  Leah Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International Email - [email protected] Website - www.complianceservices.com For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmons Sims is joined by attorney, Texas Tech professor, and renewable energy consultant Kassandra McQuillen for a conversation about the rapid development of data centers in West Texas. Together, they unpack what data centers are, why they require significant energy and water resources, and what proposed projects could mean for communities, landowners, and the Ogallala Aquifer. Using the proposed Fermi data center project near Amarillo as a case study, Kassandra explores questions surrounding land use, water rights, public accountability, energy infrastructure, and informed community decision-making. This episode is not about telling listeners what to believe, but about providing the facts needed to better understand the potential impacts of large-scale development in a water-limited region.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Texas FFA state officers Madison Diezi and Kinley Hoelscher to explore the impact of FFA on students, agriculture, and future leadership. They discuss how FFA goes far beyond livestock shows and farming, helping students build communication skills, professionalism, advocacy, and lifelong community. From rural roots to urban agriculture, this conversation highlights why FFA continues to play an important role in preparing young people for careers in agriculture and beyond. More about our guest:  Maddison Diezi, Texas FFA State Officer (Area XI) Kinley Hoelscher, Texas FFA State Officer (Area I) Instagram - @TexasFFA Facebook - Texas FFA Association Website - TexasFFA.org For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Larry Sunn of Rain Bees about rainwater harvesting as a practical water solution for drought-prone areas like West Texas. Larry breaks down how much water can be collected from a roof, what kind of tank size a family might need, how filtration works for potable and non-potable use, and why shifting away from wells and water-hungry landscapes may become increasingly important. The conversation also explores the economics of rainwater systems, public water concerns, aquifer recharge, and how education can help communities rethink the way they value and manage water. More about our guest:  Larry Sunn, Rain Harvesting Consultant Email Website For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmons-Sims visits with Chase Head about the connection between housing, poverty, dignity, and community care in Lubbock. Drawing from his work with the South Plains Food Bank and Yucca Properties, Chase shares how his real estate business has become a way to provide stable housing, practical support, and renewed hope for people facing homelessness, fixed incomes, and difficult transitions. The conversation explores empathy, the fragile realities many families face, and the ways ordinary people can make a real difference through generosity, relationships, and a willingness to see the humanity in others. Conservations Stories will be releasing earlier in the week so you no longer have to wait til friday! Subscribe to be notified when the next eposode drops. Dry Side Dispatch, a radio show centered around conservation, agriculture, hunting, and news in West Texas was recently launched. You can tune into Tillery Timmons-Sims, Andy Timmons, and Dusty Timmons' discussions and interviews on KRFE 95.9 FM on Fridays. More about our guest:  Chase Head, Owner and CEO, Yucca Properties LLC and West Sage Real Estate Email Website Phone: (806)905-7565 For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, the conversation stretches beyond traditional ag topics and into the growing intersection of nutrition, health, and the future of food. Host Tillerry Timmins-Sims sits down with Allison Childress, a registered dietitian, Texas Tech faculty member, and co-founder of a culinary medicine startup, to talk about how food can be used to manage chronic disease, how their app helps people navigate complex dietary needs, and why GLP-1 medications may be reshaping not just personal health, but consumer behavior, grocery buying habits, and even agricultural markets. It’s a wide-ranging discussion about obesity, stigma, food choice, produce culture, and the ways health trends may influence what farmers grow and how communities eat. Conservations Stories will be releasing earlier in the week so you no longer have to wait til friday! Subscribe to be notified when the next eposode drops. Dry Side Dispatch, a radio show centered around conservation, agriculture, hunting, and news in West Texas was recently launched. You can tune into Tillery Timmons-Sims, Andy Timmons, and Dusty Timmons' discussions and interviews on KRFE 95.9 FM on Fridays. More about our guest:  Dr. Allison Childress RDN, CSSD, LD Associate Professor of Practice, Clinical Dietitian and CEO of 3 CulinaryMed Docs Website LinkedIn For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Texas Tech agricultural economist Darren Hudson to explore how decades of innovation in farming have reshaped life on the South Plains. Their conversation looks at the unintended consequences of the biotech revolution, from herbicide resistance and changing management practices to the economic pressures facing producers today. Together, they also dig into the bigger picture: water use, the future of irrigation, and what declining agricultural resources could mean not just for farmers, but for Lubbock and the surrounding communities that depend on agriculture. It’s a thoughtful, wide-ranging discussion about economics, conservation, and how West Texas might adapt to a harder future with less water. More about our guest:  Darren Hudson, Combest Endowed Chair and Associate Dean, Davis College, Texas Tech University Email Twitter: @CompetitiveAg For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Paul Sousa, a California dairy advocate and former water-quality regulator, about what the rest of agriculture can learn from California’s intense regulatory environment. Their conversation looks at the tension between environmental compliance and agricultural viability, especially around water, groundwater nitrates, methane reduction, and the rising cost of regulation for producers. Sousa explains that while California’s rules can be burdensome and politically frustrating, they have also pushed innovation, created new support industries, and in some cases opened up real opportunities, such as methane digesters that generate additional farm revenue and collaborative water-quality programs that pair regulation with practical solutions. Overall, the episode is a nuanced discussion about how policy, when paired with funding and industry partnership, can either burden agriculture or help drive smarter, more resilient systems for the future. More about our guest: Paul SousaDirector of Regulatory and Environmental Affairs Email Western United Dairies Website For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Arkansas farmer Adam Chappell about the economic pressures reshaping modern agriculture, from corporate consolidation and weakened competition to the policy choices that keep farmers trapped in an increasingly fragile commodity system. Drawing on both lived experience and hard data, Chappell explains how seed, chemical, machinery, and grain markets have become so concentrated that many farmers have little real choice in what they buy, grow, or sell, even as their margins collapse. The conversation also explores the emotional and cultural cost of that system: the decline of rural community, the loss of farmer solidarity, the barriers to diversification, and the growing disconnect between consumers, policymakers, and the people producing food.  For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Eric Yates of NoFence about how virtual fencing technology is changing livestock and land management. Their conversation explores how GPS-enabled collars for cattle, sheep, and goats can help producers contain animals, rotate grazing areas, protect sensitive land, respond more quickly to emergencies, and even reduce labor demands in large or difficult terrain. Eric explains how the collars use audio cues and mild corrective pulses to train animals to respect invisible boundaries, while also giving producers real-time location and movement data that can help with everything from gathering livestock to spotting abnormal behavior. Overall, the episode highlights virtual fencing as a practical, conservation-minded tool that could make grazing management more flexible, efficient, and resilient for producers in Texas and beyond. More about our guest: Eric YatesNational Sales Director, Nofencenofence.com For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmins-Sims sits down with Erin Irwin, co-founder of The Daisy Project—a new Lubbock-based nonprofit launched in April 2025 to help families feed their household pets during tough times, with the goal of preventing rehoming and abandonment. Erin shares the personal story behind the organization—created in honor of her daughter Haley and inspired by Haley’s love for animals—along with what it’s been like building a “baby nonprofit” from the ground up. They talk about the real-world impact The Daisy Project is already making (including thousands of pounds of food distributed), the boundaries required to keep services sustainable, and how local partnerships—like their space inside Missy’s Resale—help meet needs across the community. More about our guests:  Erin Irwin, Founder, The Daisy Project Email: [email protected] Phone #: 806-901-3363 Facebook We are active on the NextDoor app as The Daisy Project For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include:  •Andrew Wright, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service • Darren Hudson, Combest Endowed Chair and Associate Dean, Davis College, Texas Tech University

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Hugh Aljoe of the Noble Research Institute to talk about the “why” behind Noble—and how the organization evolved from early soil testing and plant research into a national leader focused on regenerative ranching. Hugh shares his own journey from West Texas roots and range science at Texas A&M to three decades at Noble, then breaks down what integrated resource management looks like in practice: pairing grazing, economics, and animal science to help producers reach their goals. The conversation digs into drought cycles, soil health, profitability, peer-to-peer learning, and why lasting change is less about chasing an “easy button” and more about principles, local context, and outcomes that keep people on the land. More about our guests:  Hugh Aljoe, Director of Ranches Outreach and Partnerships, Noble Research Institute Website YouTube Facebook Instagram  For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include:  •Andrew Wright, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service • Darren Hudson, Combest Endowed Chair and Associate Dean, Davis College, Texas Tech University

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Lee Lancaster to uncover a largely forgotten chapter of agricultural history: the 1970s farmer protests that sent tractors rolling toward state capitals and Washington, D.C. Lee shares how a passing reference to modern-day protests led him to research the American Agriculture Movement, a time when farmers organized through phone trees, rallied by the thousands, and demanded “parity, not charity” — simply a fair price for what they produced. Drawing from personal family connections and firsthand accounts, this conversation explores the grit, determination, and quiet resolve of farm families who fought to protect their livelihoods and why their story still matters today. More about our guests:  Lee Lancaster, Author, Lee Lancaster Books Email: julie.hdleelancasterbooks.com Facebook Instagram  For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include:  • Hugh Aljoe, Director of Ranches Outreach and Partnerships, Noble Research Institute • Darren Hudson, Combest Endowed Chair and Associate Dean, Davis College, Texas Tech University

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Julie Hodges, Helen DeVitt Jones Endowed Director of Education at the National Ranching Heritage Center on the campus of Texas Tech University, to explore one of the South Plains’ greatest treasures. Together, they unpack what a ranch really is — not just in history books, but as a living, breathing part of life on the Great Plains today. From 27 acres of preserved historic ranch structures to cutting-edge interactive exhibits, Julie shares how the museum bridges past and present, connecting visitors to the land, livestock, grasslands, and the people who steward them. They also dive into the wildly popular Ranch Life Learning Center inspired by Hank the Cowdog, created in partnership with author John Erickson. Through immersive exhibits, hands-on STEM learning, panoramic ranch footage, and playful storytelling, the center answers the big question: What is a ranch? — and why does it matter? From prairie fires and water conservation to grass as the foundation of ecosystems and livelihoods, this conversation celebrates West Texas heritage while reminding us that ranching isn’t just history — it’s happening right now. Whether you’re a lifelong South Plains native or brand new to the region, this episode will inspire you to see the land — and the stories rooted in it — with fresh eyes. Resource: The Ranching Heritage Center More about our guests:  Julie Hodges, Helen DeVitt Jones Endowed Director of Education, National Ranching Heritage Center at Texas Tech University Email: [email protected] Facebook For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Hugh Aljoe, Director of Ranches Outreach and Partnerships, Noble Research Institute • Lee Lancaster, Author, Lee Lancaster Books

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Andrew Wright, an agricultural economist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, to unpack the real-world economics driving farm decisions on the Texas High Plains. From enterprise budgets and input costs (seed, fertilizer, chemicals, and energy) to crop insurance, price risk, and the difference between “subsidies” and risk-management safety nets, Andrew breaks down complex topics in a practical, accessible way. The conversation also looks ahead—exploring long-term water constraints tied to the Ogallala Aquifer, how producers adapt through new cropping systems and technology, and why sustainable solutions must pencil out for farmers to adopt them. For more information about AgriLife Extension Service, contact Andrew Wright:  email: [email protected] phone: 806-723-8458 For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Levi Heffelfinger to explore the often-overlooked wildlife of the Texas Panhandle and the applied research shaping its future. Levi shares his work with the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute and explains why he’s based in Lubbock, diving into real-world research on mule deer, pronghorn, elk, and the changing relationship between wildlife, agriculture, and land management. Together, they discuss how irrigation changes, grazing practices, and conservation programs influence wildlife behavior—and why applied, on-the-ground science is essential for landowners, researchers, and conservationists navigating a rapidly evolving landscape. For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, hosted by Tillery Timmons-Sims, Tillery sits down with Randy Jordan and Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz to unpack the long road behind the proposed Lubbock County Expo Center and why it matters for West Texas. Drawing on Dr. Jim’s decades-long experience helping bring the Brazos County Expo Center to life and Randy’s leadership in guiding Lubbock’s effort, the conversation explores vision, persistence, funding strategies, public trust, and the real economic impact these facilities create beyond their walls. Together, they discuss how community buy-in, phased development, and long-term thinking can turn a bold idea into a generational investment that supports agriculture, drives regional growth, and strengthens the entire South Plains. For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Dr. Kathryn Simpson, Associate Professor of Urban Horticulture and Sustainability at Texas Tech, to talk about an unexpected West Texas opportunity: guayule (pronounced “why-YOO-lee”)—a desert shrub that produces natural rubber and latex. Dr. Simpson explains why guayule matters right now, from global supply-chain disruptions to the growing need for hypoallergenic latex that doesn’t carry the proteins that cause many allergic reactions. She breaks down how guayule is grown, where the rubber lives in the plant, and what it takes to move a crop from research plots to a real-world supply loop—seed, cultivation, processing, and end-use products. The conversation also explores “rubber dandelion,” how Texas Tech fits into a multi-university research effort, and why West Texas may be a perfect testing ground for the next generation of water-smart, high-value crops. More about our guests:  Dr. Kathryn Simpson, Associate Professor of Urban Horticulture and Sustainability at Texas Tech Email Catherine LinkedIn For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Randy Jordan and Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Kerry Siders, Extension Program Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife, about the critical role applied research plays in West Texas agriculture. Drawing on decades of experience at the Barker Research Farm, Kerry shares how extension bridges the gap between university science and on-the-ground decision-making for producers. The conversation covers cotton production, integrated pest management, emerging threats like the cotton jassid, and how research and education help farmers adapt to changing conditions while balancing innovation and conservation. This episode offers a concise look at how practical research supports resilient farms and rural communities across the South Plains. Resource: About the Cotton Jassid More about our guests:  Kerry Siders, Extension Program Specialist, IPMTexas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Email Kerry For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Randy Jordan and Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Brandon Lipps to unpack the realities of hunger, food insecurity, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through the lens of Brandon’s extensive experience in agricultural policy and public service. Drawing from his work on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, leadership at USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, and ongoing involvement with Midwest Food Bank, Brandon offers a balanced, firsthand perspective on how SNAP works, who it serves, and why it remains both essential and deeply complex. The conversation explores misconceptions around fraud, the challenges faced by families living on the economic edge, the role of food banks during crises like government shutdowns, and the difficult policy tradeoffs surrounding benefit levels, work requirements, and long-term solutions. Grounded in both data and compassion, the episode emphasizes the human impact behind policy decisions and the importance of thoughtful, solutions-driven leadership when addressing hunger in America. More about our guests:  Brandon Lipps, Co-Founder & Principal, Caprock Strategies For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Kerry Siders• Randy Jordan and Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery sits down with Dr. Jason Headrick, a Kentucky-born farm kid turned leadership professor in Texas Tech’s Department of Agricultural Education & Communications. From growing up on a tobacco and timber farm to researching civic leadership in rural communities, Jason shares how his roots shaped his passion for people, place, and the “social side” of agriculture. Together, they dig into the importance of bridging the gap between consumers and producers, tackling misinformation about agriculture and food systems, and teaching students how to think critically about the news they consume. Jason also introduces his “We Love West Texas” project—an ambitious study across 41 counties looking at rural strengths, challenges, mental health, access to healthcare, and the surprising tension around cost of living. The conversation turns to who holds power in rural communities, how to make room for new and underrepresented voices at the table, and practical ways people of all ages can get involved—through surveys, local committees, festivals, and simply showing up. If you care about the future of rural communities, leadership, or what it really means to belong and participate where you live, this episode is for you. More about our guests:  Dr. Jason Headrick, Assistant Professor of Leadership & Community Development, Texas Tech University, Department of Agricultural Education & Communications Instagram  For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Peter Dot• Brandon Lipps, Co-Founder & Principal, Caprock Strategies

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmins-Sims sits down with Chase Head, Chief Development Officer of the South Plains Food Bank, to unpack what hunger really looks like across their 19-county service area. Chase shares his journey from cotton R&D and agribusiness into professional fundraising, and explains how the food bank leverages the national Feeding America network and its own buying power so that every donated dollar can provide roughly three meals. They dig into the realities behind SNAP and TFAP, who actually needs help (often working families), and how recent USDA cuts and the government shutdown have created a “perfect storm” of higher demand and less federal support. Chase also highlights the Food Bank’s youth leadership program (formerly GRUB) and five-acre garden, where local teens gain agricultural, kitchen, and workplace skills while growing fresh produce that now goes directly to client families. Throughout, Tillery and Chase return to a central theme: community generosity—through financial support, partnership, and smarter systems—is essential to keeping neighbors fed and helping the next generation break cycles of poverty. More about our guests:  Chase Head, Chief Development Officer, South Plains Food Bank Email Website  Instagram  Facebook For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Peter Dot• Brandon Lipps, Co-Founder & Principal, Caprock Strategies

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmins-Sims visits with Dr. Peter Dotray, a weed scientist with a rare three-way appointment split between Texas Tech University, AgriLife Extension, and AgriLife Research, alongside regular guest Dr. Todd Bauman. Peter shares how his role bridges research, classroom teaching, and on-the-ground extension, helping ensure that new science actually reaches producers and is shaped by their real-world questions. The conversation walks through how weed populations change over time, how herbicide resistance develops, and why overreliance on a single chemistry is so risky—especially in cotton-centric West Texas. They unpack what a “weed” really is, the ecological roles weeds can play, and how modern plant breeding and GMOs compare to the kinds of crosses farmers and breeders have been making in fields for decades. Peter and Todd explain herbicide-resistant crops, the strict regulation around new chemistries, and how today’s products use far lower rates with much lower mammalian toxicity than the highly toxic pesticides of previous generations. They also get into drift and volatilization concerns, temperature inversions, and how better nozzles, equipment, and training are improving on-target applications. The episode closes by looking at reduced-input weed management, integrating tools like cover crops, precision tillage, flame cultivation, electrocution, and more competitive crop varieties alongside herbicides—always with economics and soil health in mind. Throughout, the three reflect on the cultural and relational side of these decisions in small farming communities, the mounting financial pressure on today’s producers, and the importance of praying for and supporting farmers as agriculture faces challenges reminiscent of the 1980s. More about our guests:  Todd Baughman Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center Director Email Website  For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Peter Dot• Brandon Lipps, Co-Founder & Principal, Caprock Strategies

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery welcomes back a returning guest in a brand-new role — Liz Hirschfield, now Executive Director of Cotton Council International. Liz shares her journey from J.Crew/Madewell to consulting, and now to leading CCI’s global mission of expanding demand for U.S. cotton across more than 15 countries. Liz explains how CCI works under the National Cotton Council to promote U.S. cotton as the world’s most consistent, traceable, and sustainably grown fiber — and how their teams collaborate with mills, spinners, brands, and U.S. government offices to break down trade barriers and increase adoption. She highlights a major strategic push to grow markets beyond China and strengthen sourcing relationships across Latin America, where demand and manufacturing interest are rapidly rising. The conversation dives deep into: Why U.S. cotton’s quality and consistency outperform global competitors How CCI’s “solutions team” helps mills improve yields and reduce cost through better processing The growing interest in regenerative cotton vs. traditional organic Global misconceptions about GMOs, sustainability, and the realities of modern farming How brands are reevaluating synthetics due to microplastic pollution and health concerns The economic importance of raising cotton prices to reflect real production costs Emerging policy efforts like the Buy American Cotton Act and how listeners can support it Liz and Tillery also explore labor issues, H2A programs, and how smarter, safer labor pipelines can strengthen agricultural communities both in the U.S. and abroad. The episode closes with a conversation on cotton’s biodegradability, consumer labels like BCI, and why everyday choices in fiber content matter for environmental and human health. This episode gives growers, brands, and consumers alike a grounded look at where cotton stands today — and where U.S. cotton is headed next. More about our guests:  Liz Hershfield Executive Director Cotton Council International Email Website  For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Peter Dot• Brandon Lipps, Co-Founder & Principal, Caprock Strategies

In this episode of Conservation Stories, Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Laura Seal, Assistant Director of the AmeriCorps program housed at West Texas A&M University in Canyon. Laura explains how AmeriCorps operates as a federally funded service program that places members with nonprofits across the Texas Panhandle to strengthen community resilience in areas like health, wellness, education, land stewardship, and economic opportunity. Together, they discuss how AmeriCorps members build the capacity of nonprofits by taking on vital roles that organizations often can’t afford to staff on their own. Laura shares insights into recruitment, training, the diversity of members—from first-time job seekers to retirees—and the real value AmeriCorps brings to both nonprofits and the members themselves through skill-building, certifications, and education awards. The conversation highlights success stories, unique member roles (including wildlife TV segments!), and how AmeriCorps can serve as a stepping-stone into meaningful careers. Tillery emphasizes the positive impact the program has had on her own organization and encourages more nonprofits—especially in rural communities—to explore becoming partners. The episode wraps with practical guidance on how interested organizations can get involved and why AmeriCorps is a powerful tool for growing community-driven work across the region. More about our guests:  Laura Seals, Assistant Director, Community Resilience Corps Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Peter Dot• Liz Hershfield, Executive Director Cotton Council International• Brandon Lipps, Co-Founder & Principal, Caprock Strategies

Host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with repeat guest Sarah Burnett of Texas Earth for an update on her microbial soil products and a third-party “Proving Ground” trial run through Agrelis. The blind test—on a 46-acre watermelon farm in Sampson County, North Carolina. Sarah explains why mixed bacterial/fungal inoculants and carbon sources matter, how overreliance on synthetic N can dull natural nutrient cycling, and why “place-based” regenerative practices work for both organic and conventional growers. They also cover biochar inoculation projects with Oklahoma rancher Susan Bergen, Texas Earth’s home-gardener line (Bio Floof) for moisture retention, past produce partnerships (e.g., leafy greens), and emerging demand in arid regions like the UAE. Threaded through is a defense of small, community-rooted businesses and a nod to Sarah’s late father’s early microbial insights. More about our guests:  Sarah Burnett, owner of Texas Earth Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Peter Dot• Liz Hershfield, Executive Director Cotton Council International• Laura Seals, Assistant Director, Community Resilience Corps

More about our guests:  DeLinda Hicklen, Relationship Agent at Capital Farm Credit Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Katy Lewis• Liz Hershfield, Executive Director Cotton Council International• Laura Seals, Assistant Director, Community Resilience Corps

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons Sims sits down with crop insurance expert and lifelong cotton industry advocate Delinda Hicklin to unpack one of agriculture’s most misunderstood topics — crop insurance. Together, they explore how the program evolved from the 1980s farm crisis into today’s vital safety net for U.S. farmers, protecting not just individual livelihoods but the nation’s food and fiber security. Delinda explains how the shared-risk model between farmers, private insurers, and the federal government works, why crop insurance is essential for securing operating loans, and how misconceptions about “farm subsidies” distort the public’s understanding of agriculture. The two also discuss the economic pressures on modern farmers, stagnant commodity prices, and how international competitors like Brazil and EU countries benefit from even larger government supports. Beyond economics, the conversation broadens into global trade, sustainability, and conservation — highlighting farmers’ role as stewards of the land and innovators in adapting to changing climates and consumer expectations. The episode closes with reflections on the generational evolution of farming technology and the ongoing need for public awareness of where our food, fiber, and agricultural security truly come from.   More about our guests:  DeLinda Hicklen, Relationship Agent at Capital Farm Credit Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman and Katy Lewis• Liz Hershfield, Executive Director Cotton Council International• Laura Seals, Assistant Director, Community Resilience Corps

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Navy veteran Billy Knox and barbecue pitmaster Ian Timmons to share the story behind Beefy, a Lubbock-based startup transforming brisket into an innovative, healthy snack. Born out of Ian’s legacy at Tom & Bingo’s Barbecue and fueled by Billy’s logistical expertise, Beefy is creating high-protein, preservative-free meat chips that are winning fans for their unique texture and flavor—crispy like a chip, buttery like bacon. The conversation dives into much more than food. Billy and Ian reflect on the importance of roots, community, and building something lasting for their families and region. They discuss rethinking distribution models, favoring local farmers’ markets and community ecosystems over traditional grocery chains, and emphasize their mission to keep jobs and production local by building their own USDA facility from the ground up. Beyond snacks, they wrestle with larger issues: broken food systems, school nutrition, the dangers of “low-fat” dogma, and the power of parents and communities to demand healthier options for kids. They connect food choices to broader cultural themes—valuing family, questioning “business as usual,” and restoring agency in local economies. This episode blends entrepreneurship, conservation, and cultural reflection, reminding listeners that everything is connected—from microbes in the soil to the snacks in our schools to the way we build community resilience. More about our guests:  Ian Timmons & Billy Knox, founders of Beefy Meat Chips Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • DeLinda Hicklen, Capital Farm Credit• Todd Baughman and Katy Lewis

 In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Todd Baughman, director of the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Lubbock, to explore how cutting-edge research connects directly to the challenges and opportunities facing High Plains producers. Todd reflects on this year’s unusual weather patterns—cooler nights and timely rains—and what they mean for cotton crops, plant stress, and yield potential. He highlights the center’s expanding drip irrigation research, as well as projects in fertility, cropping systems, regenerative agriculture, and integrating livestock into row-crop systems. The conversation dives into soil health, compaction concerns, and innovative practices like short-term grazing, which can reduce costs, improve cover crop viability, and create new opportunities for younger producers. Tillery and Todd also tackle big-picture themes: the importance of trustworthy, unbiased research in an age of information overload, the evolving role of GMOs, and how U.S. agriculture underpins not only local economies but also national security. They discuss challenges in global competitiveness, the burden of innovation on American farmers, and the potential for direct farmer-to-buyer models that strengthen local economies and reduce middlemen in the supply chain. Blending science, economics, and on-the-ground experience, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how research, resilience, and collaboration keep agriculture moving forward in West Texas and beyond. More about our guests:  Todd Baughman Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Ian Timmons, Beefy Meat Chips• DeLinda Hicklen, Capital Farm Credit• Todd Baughman and Katy Lewis

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Canadian rancher and conservation leader Brian Gilvesey about the ALUS (Alternative Land Use Services) program, a farmer-driven initiative that pays landowners for producing ecosystem services like clean water, biodiversity, soil health, and carbon storage. Brian shares his personal journey from raising Texas Longhorn cattle in Ontario to helping expand ALUS across 41 communities in North America, empowering farmers to take ownership of conservation without burdensome easements or government red tape. The program’s grassroots model gives communities autonomy to set priorities while attracting funding from corporations, municipalities, and nonprofits eager to invest in environmental outcomes. Together, Tillery and Brian discuss how ALUS redefines farmers as solution providers—not just food and fiber producers, but stewards of landscapes that benefit all of society. They explore real-world examples, from buffer strips that recycle nutrients through cattle, to wetland restoration, pollinator habitats, and regenerative grazing pilots. Brian emphasizes the importance of valuing ecosystem services, keeping programs voluntary, and telling agriculture’s story in a way that reclaims the environmental agenda. This episode highlights a new model of conservation—farmer-led, community-based, and market-supported—designed to reward stewardship, strengthen rural communities, and create a more resilient planet.   More about our guests:  Bryan Gilvesy, Chief Strategy Officer at ALUS, Owner Y U Ranch. Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Ian Timmons, Beefy Meat Chips• DeLinda Hicklen, Capital Farm Credit• Todd Baughman and Katy Lewis

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with Billy Tiller, a fifth-generation cotton farmer, entrepreneur, and data solutions innovator from West Texas. Billy shares his journey from farming and ag banking to launching technology ventures focused on ag data cooperatives and water management solutions. He explains how his work in Nebraska’s Twin Platte Natural Resource District helped pioneer a large-scale project using electric smart meters to track irrigation more accurately and encourage conservation—an approach now viewed as a model across the state. The conversation expands beyond water to the challenges of dryland farming, the role of crop insurance, and the slim margins farmers face amidst rising input costs. Billy and Tillery also reflect on food systems, from international competition in cotton markets to the need for healthier diets in rural America. Billy shares personal insights on resilience, from cooking during COVID to innovations in chemical solutions through his new venture, the Grower Freedom Alliance, which promotes more efficient and sustainable ag inputs. Closing with a heartfelt discussion on mentors and legacies, Billy honors those who shaped his path and emphasizes the importance of hope, second chances, and lifting up positive voices in agriculture. This episode blends innovation, faith, and community spirit—painting a vivid picture of how one farmer is working to secure the future of agriculture on the High Plains and beyond.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims welcomes Tony Vorster and Nick Young, researchers at Colorado State University’s Natural Resource Ecology Lab, to explore how NASA’s remote sensing technology can directly support farmers and ranchers. With years of experience in applied research and the NASA Develop Program, Tony and Nick explain remote sensing in everyday terms—how satellites measure landscapes, track vegetation, and provide insights on soil moisture, biomass, flood risks, and long-term land changes. The conversation highlights the NASA Acres initiative, which partners with producers to make taxpayer-funded satellite data more accessible and practical. From mapping cover crops and forage availability to helping ranchers use tools like the Rangeland Analysis Platform, the discussion emphasizes the importance of farmer feedback in shaping tools that actually work on the ground. The episode also previews an upcoming project in West Texas to refine cover crop mapping using satellite imagery, with local farmers invited to contribute simple but vital data. Accessible, collaborative, and farmer-led, this episode shows how space technology can become a down-to-earth ally for agriculture—helping producers adapt to changing landscapes, improve decision-making, and shape the future of conservation.   More about our guests:  Tony Vorster and Nick Young - research associates at CSU Natural Resource Ecology Lab Website   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Bryan Gilvesy, Chief Strategy Officer at ALUS, Owner Y U Ranch.• Ian Timmons, Beefy Meat Chips• DeLinda Hicklen, Capital Farm Credit

 In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with agricultural law expert Jim Bradbury to unpack the complexities of conservation easements—what they are, how they work, and why they’re gaining popularity across Texas. Together, they explore how easements provide landowners with tools to preserve property for future generations, manage estate planning, and protect against fragmentation, all while maintaining agricultural productivity. Jim explains the mechanics of easements, the financial structures behind them, and how compensation can come through tax deductions, grants, or direct payments. The discussion also addresses skepticism in rural communities, the fears tied to government overreach, and the role of misinformation in shaping public opinion. Jim emphasizes the importance of good communication, intergenerational planning, and understanding easements as a voluntary tool rather than a threat. The conversation expands to broader conservation and water law issues, touching on produced water, Playa Lake protection, and emerging land-use research initiatives. Tillery and Jim highlight how local solutions, transparency, and farmer-led initiatives build trust and lasting impact. This episode provides landowners, policymakers, and conservation advocates with a clear-eyed look at how easements can balance economic needs, environmental stewardship, and family legacy. More about our guests:  James D. Bradbury, PLLC Email Website   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Bryan Gilvesy, Chief Strategy Officer at ALUS, Owner Y U Ranch.• Ian Timmons, Beefy Meat Chips• DeLinda Hicklen, Capital Farm Credit

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims speaks with Joe Martinez, founder of a nonprofit dedicated to helping U.S. farms legally recruit agricultural workers through the H-2A, H-2B, and TN visa programs. With decades of agricultural labor challenges as the backdrop, Joe explains how his organization connects farmers with trained, reliable laborers from Mexico, Guatemala, and beyond—offering not just workers, but long-term relationships that support both farm productivity and community development. The conversation explores the history of undocumented farm labor, the pressures of immigration enforcement, and how the formal visa system provides a more sustainable solution for farmers facing rising costs and uncertainty. Joe shares how professionalizing the workforce benefits everyone: farmers gain consistency, retailers strengthen their supply chains, and workers’ home communities thrive as wages are reinvested in land, businesses, and infrastructure. Together, Tillery and Joe highlight the bigger picture—how consumer choices, corporate accountability, and labor reform intersect to shape the future of American agriculture. This episode reveals a powerful truth: feeding and clothing the world depends not only on crops and livestock, but also on the people whose hands harvest and sustain them.   More about our guests:  Joe Martinez, CEO, Cierto, H2A H2B TN Visa Recruiter Email LinkedIn Website   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Bryan Gilvesy, Chief Strategy Officer at ALUS, Owner Y U Ranch.• Jim Bradbury, Attorney

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims talks with Dr. John Beusterien, professor at Texas Tech and founder of the Lubbock Waters project. With a background in literature and history, John shares how his curiosity about the land, culture, and ecology of West Texas led him to water—our most vital and fragile resource. They explore the hidden history of the Southern High Plains, from ancient peoples and mammoths to early farming practices, and discuss how water has shaped settlement and survival in the region. John highlights the unique urban water reuse system designed in the 1970s by Jim Bertram, which transformed Lubbock’s canyons into a six-mile lake system that both filters water and provides recreational space. The conversation also acknowledges tensions between development and preserving archeological sites, as well as the need to reclaim underutilized public spaces like Yellow House Canyon. John’s vision for Lubbock Waters is part museum, part community hub, and part research center—a place where families can engage with water in fun, hands-on ways while learning about conservation, and where innovators can collaborate on future water solutions. This episode blends deep history, present challenges, and bold imagination, reminding listeners that water connects culture, conservation, and community.   More about our guests:  Dr. John Beusterien, Founder of Lubbock Waters, Professor at Texas Tech Email Lubbock Waters Website Texas Tech Faculty Information Page Heaven's Harsh Tableland Book   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center• Joe Martinez, CEO, Cierto, H2A H2B TN Visa Recruiter• Bryan Gilvesy, Chief Strategy Officer at ALUS, Owner Y U Ranch.    

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmins Sims sits down with Leah Doozy from Compliance Services International (CSI) to dive into the world of pesticide regulation and its complex relationship with environmental and agricultural practices. Leah shares her extensive background in agricultural economics and conservation, shedding light on the intricate process of getting pesticides approved by the EPA, the importance of labels in regulating chemical use, and the growing concern for endangered species. The conversation highlights the balance between using chemicals for agricultural efficiency and the potential environmental impacts, such as pesticide resistance and soil health. Leah also discusses the evolving nature of regulation, from EPA's early struggles with endangered species protection to their current strategies for mitigating the risks posed by pesticides. This episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of science, policy, and agriculture, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of how decisions made in the regulatory space affect the environment, farmers, and consumers.   More about our guests:  Leah, Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International [email protected], www.linkedin.com/in/leahmooreduzy   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Todd Baughman Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center• Joe Martinez, CEO, Cierto, H2A H2B TN Visa Recruiter• Dr. John Beisterien, Lubbock Waters    

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with agricultural legend Jane Dever to explore her remarkable journey from a small West Texas cotton farm to leading agricultural research in South Carolina. Jane shares her family’s deep immigrant roots, the legacy of her grandfather’s 160-acre farm, and the powerful story of how her parents opened their home to foster and refugee children. She reflects on decades in the cotton industry—from improving West Texas fiber quality through public breeding programs to working with FiberMax and championing underserved growers. Their conversation also explores agricultural transitions, from hemp fiber’s challenges to innovative uses of indigo, and the importance of connecting end buyers with producers. Now directing Clemson University’s Pee Dee Research and Education Center, Jane discusses managing diverse research programs, adapting to new crops, promoting pollinator habitats, and seeing conservation in action through wildlife and habitat health. This episode blends history, science, and heart—showcasing how stewardship, innovation, and community shape the future of agriculture. More about our guests:  Jane Dever, Professor and Director, Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center Facebook  Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Leah Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International• Todd Baughman Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center• Joe Martinez, CEO, Cierto, H2A H2B TN Visa Recruiter

In this thought-provoking episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims welcomes hydrologist and University of Texas researcher Dr. Bridget Scanlon, whose global perspective and deep technical insight offer a compelling look at water’s future in West Texas and beyond. Originally from southwest Ireland and now based in Austin, Dr. Scanlon shares her journey from farming roots to cutting-edge research in groundwater recharge, produced water reuse, and climate-smart resource management. The episode dives into challenges and innovations around water quantity, quality, and treatment—especially as they relate to agriculture and energy production in the Permian Basin. From reusing produced water to recharge aquifers, to expanding local horticulture models like Leighton’s sustainable strawberry farm, Dr. Scanlon and Tillery discuss practical solutions that balance environmental stewardship, economic realities, and community resilience. With refreshing candor, the conversation also highlights the disconnect between federal programs and local needs, the growing awareness of aquifer depletion, and the importance of farmer voices in policy discussions. This episode serves as both a cautionary tale and a hopeful roadmap for sustainable water use across rural America.   More about our guests:  Bridget Scanlon Research Professor University of Texas at Austin Contact Bridget Water Resources Podcast   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Jane Dever, Professor and Director, Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center• Leah Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International• Todd Baughman Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center    

Upcoming Produced Water Society Event: 10th Annual Permian Basin Conference & Exhibition Dates: August 11–13, 2025Location: Bush Convention Center, Midland, TexasDetails: Industry leaders gather to discuss produced water management.Register: Register Here More About Our Guest Michael GrossmanModerator for Panel 5A ("Treat, Discharge, Recharge: Mitigating Risks and Maximizing Benefits of Surface Discharge") at the Produced Water Society’s 35th Annual Conference. He represents Aquafortus Technologies.LinkedIn: Michael Grossman LinkedIn The Produced Water Society (PWS) is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit comprised of oil and gas water professionals focused on improving produced water management through events, workshops, and community.Website: Produced Water Society Website Social Media & Online Presence Follow PWS on: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery welcomes Dr. Todd Baughman, the new director of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Center in Lubbock, Texas. They explore Todd’s agricultural background, the mission and evolution of land grant universities, and the vital role of research, teaching, and extension in supporting rural communities. The conversation highlights the breadth of ongoing research at the Lubbock center—including cotton, peanuts, corn breeding, and remote sensing with NASA—as well as cutting-edge projects like using produced water from oil drilling for irrigation. They also discuss the importance of independent research, future water conservation strategies, and the extensive resources available through extension offices, including the educational power of 4-H programs. Whether you're a producer, student, or just curious about the intersection of ag science and sustainability, this episode offers a rich look into the present and future of conservation-focused agriculture in West Texas.   More about our guests:  Todd Baughman - Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center Website Email   For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com Support the Conservation Stories Podcast Follow SARA for more updates  •  Instagram  •  Facebook  •  LinkedIn •  X/Twitter Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews. Upcoming Episodes Include: • Bridget Scanlon Research Professor University of Texas at Austin• Jane Dever, Professor and Director, Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center• Leah Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International