UC Outdoors

On this episode of the UC Outdoors podcast, Holly Taylor joins host Brad Halfacre to highlight the hobby of birding in the Upper Cumberland. She starts off by detailing what birding is, and how simple + easy it is for anyone to get involved! From the unique bird types native to our area, to all of the best places to start your birding journey, Holly Taylor is here to detail it all! Listen To The L...

Nancy Pardue joins Brad Halfacre on this episode of UC Outdoors to give some insight on the vast history of Bend of the River. She talks about the beginning of it all, detailing the origins of the Bend of the River and how it came to be. As well as maintaining their historical roots, Pardue also shares how they are constantly making sure to innovate and evolve. She shares how they offer various sh...

Daniel Whitehead joins Brad Halfacre on the UC Outdoors to discuss how being outdoors can help people in recovery and mental clarity. He explains how being outdoors can provide a great sense of freedom and an improved mood throughout the day. In addition to freedom and improved mood, Whitehead also highlights the other health benefits of living a life in the great outdoors. Listen To The UC Outdoo...

Brad sits down with Eli Harris who bring his expertise in flowers and plants to Putnam County, helping to aid in research that can protect plants and the land they grow on. Harris discusses his journey to Putnam County, while also detailing his plans to help the region maintain their beautiful flower/plant production while also growing this wonderful showcase. Listen To The UC Outdoors Podcast Tod...

Brad sits down with crappie fishing expert Larry Watts to explore his lifelong passion for fishing across the Upper Cumberland. Larry shares stories from his retirement years on the water, including his favorite local lakes such as Rock Island, Dale Hollow, Cordell Hull, and Great Falls Lake. He discusses techniques, seasonal strategies, and the benefits of using modern tools like fish finders and...

Brad sits down with herpetologist Danny Bryan to discuss snakes, ticks, and how to stay safe while hiking and hunting in the Upper Cumberland. Danny shares how urban development has increased human encounters with snakes and explains their important role in controlling rodent and tick populations. He also breaks down the growing concerns surrounding tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease, an...

Brad sits down with Lisa Luck, Executive Director of Keep Putnam County Beautiful Clean Commission, to discuss ongoing efforts to keep Putnam County clean and environmentally responsible. Lisa shares how her journey with the organization began in 2010 and how she found her passion for community cleanup and education. She explains the impact of litter prevention programs, school outreach, and initi...

In this episode, Brad Halfacre sits down with Ryan Higgins of Cedar Lake Camp to explore the rich history and mission behind the camp. Ryan shares how the property began as a struggling farm that was later transformed into a place of refuge for children during the Great Depression, eventually serving as an orphanage before becoming the camp it is today. He also discusses how Cedar Lake Camp now us...

In this episode, Sunny and Michelle join the conversation to highlight the upcoming Casting for Help and Hope Fishing Tournament, happening May 30th in support of the Children’s Advocacy Center. They discuss what anglers can expect on the lake, including the variety of fish species, as well as how the event is structured from check-in to competition. Sunny also shares insight into her forensic rol...

What if everyone—no matter their ability—could experience the beauty of Tennessee’s waterfalls? Host Brad Halfacre sits down with Tessa Davis to discuss an inspiring accessibility initiative from the Cookeville-Putnam County Visitors Bureau, designed to open up four state parks and five waterfalls to visitors of all abilities. From creating detailed maps and digital resources to partnering with WC...

It’s not just about the finish line—it’s about the journey, the team, and every step in between. Brad sits down with Travis Shope and Jennifer Shope to talk about the growing cross country program at Cookeville High School Cross Country and their involvement with the Upper Cumberland Road Runners Club. With 13 boys and 9 girls on the team, they share how summer practices, team bonding, and even a...

Casting lines and building leaders—this team is reeling in more than just fish! Brad Halfacre talks with Dan DeLaCruz, head of the DeKalb County Fishing Team, and vice president Carly Thomas about the growth, grit, and goals behind their program. From young anglers just starting out to seasoned team leaders, they share what it takes to compete, mentor, and chase a shot at nationals. Carly also ope...

Get ready to lace up for a race that fuels young minds and builds a stronger community! Brad sits down with Amanda Elmore to talk about the Cumberland County Imagination Library's 5K Run to Read, coming up on Saturday, April 4th. Learn how this fun, family-friendly event supports early literacy—from free books for kids to a 1-mile fun run and storybook trail. With free registration for students, c...

Step into the wild side of spring! Host Brad Halfacre sits down with Standing Stone Park Ranger Jonathan Williams to preview the 2026 Annual Spring Nature Rally, a beloved event that’s been bringing outdoor lovers together since 2004. With 28 different activities led by 21 presenters, the rally features everything from wildflower walks and fungus programs to cave exploration talks and even a speci...

Tradition meets the outdoors at Fall Creek Falls. Brad Halfacre speaks with Park Ranger Matt Brown about the upcoming Arts and Preservation Day and the cultural roots behind the event. Inspired by the long-running Mountaineer Folk Festival, the event celebrates traditional skills, Appalachian heritage, and hands-on learning through special classes and demonstrations. Matt shares how his passion fo...

What’s really living at the bottom of your pond? Brad Halfacre sits down with Wayne Key to dive into the aquatic issues affecting landowners across Tennessee’s Upper Cumberland region. From battling stubborn pond weeds to sampling fish and testing water quality, Wayne explains what it takes to keep ponds healthy — and what can go wrong beneath the surface. If you own land, manage livestock, or car...

Brad Halfacre talks turkey season with Cummins Falls State Park ranger Lauren Fagin, who shares her passion for the outdoors and the traditions that got her into hunting. From must-have gear and practicing your calls to understanding regulations and how weather affects turkey behavior, Lauren offers expert tips for a safe and successful season. Tune in for a timely conversation every Tennessee hun...

Brad Halfacre sits down with Jake Viamonte from Rock Island State Park to talk about the park’s stunning natural wonders and exciting events coming up this season. From the Caney Fork River and Twin Falls—where the waterfall pours straight through a rock face—to family-friendly February programs and a big Walleye tournament in March, there’s something for everyone to explore. Tune in and get inspi...

Brad Halfacre catches up with TWRA biologist Casey Mullen to talk about the role trapping still plays in Tennessee today. Casey explains how trapping helps protect livestock, manage invasive species like armadillos, and preserve a tradition that’s been passed down for generations. Along the way, they touch on wildlife encounters, family bonding, and what to do if you see illegal trapping. Listen T...

On this episode of the UC Outdoors podcast, Brad Halfacre sits down with Eddie Ramos and Terra Hall from Kayaking Adventures of Tennessee to talk about their passion for keeping local waterways clean. From hauling trash out of Ragland Bottom to organizing cleanup challenges, they share what they’ve found, why it matters, and how faith fuels their mission. It’s an inspiring conversation about stewa...

Brad Halfacre sits down with Ben Wilson and Cade Austin, two dedicated anglers from the Upperman High School Fishing Team, to talk life on the water and competition fishing. The pair share what drew them to the sport, how they prepare for tournaments, and what it’s like balancing fishing with school and other athletics. They also break down safety rules, boating requirements, and the unique setup...

Brad Halfacre talks with Clint Melton about the past, present, and future of the Rickman Community and Recreation Center. Clint shares the center’s history, how it fell into disuse over the years, and his vision to restore it as a safe, welcoming outdoor space for local families. The conversation highlights challenges like funding and facility repairs, along with community partnerships, volunteer...

Brad Halfacre dives underground with Brandon Burris, Dustin Sells, and Misty Pearson of the Clay County TN Cavers for a look into the hidden world beneath our feet. What started as one expensive commercial tour turned into a mission to make caving accessible for everyone—no grotto fees, no barriers, just pure exploration. They break down the unexpected peace of mind caving offers, the essential sa...

Brad Halfacre sits down with UT Ag Extension Agent Jason Garrett for an eye-opening look into the world of feral pigs. Jason breaks down where feral swine originated, why they’re considered an exotic invasive species, and the massive damage they can cause to farms, forests, and even cemeteries. He explains landowner rights, nighttime hunting permits, and why hunters with dogs often have the upper...

Brad Halfacre talks with Mike Beaty from the TWRA to break down why Tennessee’s deer harvest numbers are down this season. Mike explains the differences between EHD—often called “Blue Tongue”—and CWD, and what hunters need to know about both. He also shares the best digital tools for staying up-to-date on hunting and fishing regulations, plus details on the free Sandhill Crane Festival coming to B...