The Natural Heritage of Indiana

From ancient seas and coral reefs, to Ice-Age glaciation, the first program will explore the massive changes in Indiana's landscape, as well as the plants and animals that developed over these periods. Just 250 years ago, the area was vastly different than the land we know today.

This documentary takes viewers into these habitats, where they will witness the diversity of life that exists. Sometimes, the life cycles take place on a nearly microscopic level. Elsewhere, the program reveals prehistoric looking fish and amphibians that still inhabit the landscape, as well as spectacular waterfowl.

Producer/photographer Samuel Orr travels into the state's forests and caves, and reveals a land teeming with sometimes strange and beautiful plants and trees, and the birds and beasts that share these habitats. Among the highlights of this episode: the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly, and its amazing migration from Indiana to Mexico.

This program will focus on the alteration of the natural landscape of Indiana by humans, the consequences to native systems and organisms, and the coming of conservation and ecological study and stewardship. Much has been altered, but there are stories of hope, as well.