New Season of Windows to the Wild Explores Nature, Adventure and Human Connection

(Durham, NH) – (August, 29, 2024) – New Hampshire PBS is releasing the entire new season of its award-winning nature and adventure documentary series, WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE, online with NHPBS Passport in advance of its broadcast premiere on October 3rd. The new season will take viewers on captivating journeys through diverse landscapes and explore environmental issues while sharing inspiring stories about how people connect with nature.

WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE launches season 19 today online with 13 new episodes. For the month of September, NHPBS members can binge-watch these new episodes via NHPBS’ on-demand streaming service, NHPBS Passport. Traditional viewers will be able to enjoy watching WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE on-air every Thursday at 8 PM on New Hampshire PBS starting October 3, 2024.

From the challenges of climate change to the triumphs of human resilience, WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE delves deep into the heart of nature and the people who are working to protect it. Viewers will witness breathtaking scenery, meet fascinating characters and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

As the show explores New England’s mountains, trails, rivers and lakes, the crew understands that each traveler is on a personal journey.

“Some leave a busy world behind, others challenge themselves to reach new destinations, while others look for ways to preserve our planet for future generations,” said executive producer Phil Vaughn. “Whatever the reasons for being ‘out there’, everybody should experience a sense of belonging. The stories we share during the new season of WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE are of people who, no matter where they live, their age, gender, race or ability, have found ways to belong in nature.”

This season features a wide range of compelling stories, including heroic efforts to save the New Hampshire coastline, the inspiring journey of an outdoor adventurer turned social media superstar and the epic canoe journey that traces ancestral indigenous waterways. The series also explores the importance of environmental conservation, the power of community and the enduring connection between humans and nature.

“For the past nineteen years, WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE has taken viewers outdoors and shared stories about how, in some way, we’re all connected to nature,” said Vaughn. “Our goal for the new season is to continue that journey. Willem Lange loves being outdoors and meeting other people who share that passion and is always eager to hear their stories about what the natural world means to them.”

WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE launches today online with NHPBS Passport and will broadcast on NHPBS starting Thursday, October 3rd at 8PM.

WINDOWS TO THE WILD – SEASON 19 PROGRAM GUIDE:

Saving Our Shores: EPISODE 1901
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 8PM

A group of dedicated swimmers embark on a seven-mile ocean challenge from the Isles of Shoals to Rye Beach to commemorate a historic battle against a proposed oil refinery on New Hampshire's coastline. Fifty years ago, a determined group of citizens, including the mothers of two featured swimmers, successfully fought to protect their beloved shoreline from environmental devastation. Join host Willem Lange as we witness a present-day open water swim that honors their victory while also exploring current environmental concerns and the importance of community action.

Mirna the Motivator: EPISODE 1902
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 8PM

Mirna Valerio’s nickname is “The Mirnavator.” She’s become a social media star, known all over the world for her outdoor lifestyle. Mirna developed a deep love for nature that has inspired others, regardless of their age, size or background, to overcome obstacles and find joy in outdoor activities. Host Willem Lange meets up with Mirna in Vermont to learn more about her urban beginnings and how she became a trailblazer, both literally and figuratively.

History Remembered: EPISODE 1903
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 8PM

Follow Willem Lange and land surveyor Marshall Hudson as they canoe along the Merrimack River and Marshall shares long forgotten stories from deep in the New Hampshire wilderness. With every boundary line and property survey, Marshall uncovers fascinating tales of the past. From Native American history to the quirky details of town line disputes to the secrets of a moonshine-making farmer, Marshall shares his passion for unearthing the past through his unique profession.

Little Foot: EPISODE 1904
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 8PM

Scarlett, also known as “Little Foot,” has hiked all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000-footers in both summer and winter. Join host Willem Lange as he meets this six-year-old avid hiker and her grandparents at the trailhead of Mount Washington. Together, they've conquered New Hampshire's most challenging mountains and taught others about hiking safely. This isn’t just a tale of peak bagging; it’s about spending quality time together, knowing your limits and slowing down to take in all the mountains have to offer.

A River Reborn: EPISODE 1905
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, October 31, 2024 at 8PM

Photographer Joe Klementovich and a team of intrepid paddleboarders embark on an epic journey down the Penobscot River. Battling rapids, dense forests and swarms of mosquitoes, they explore the river's tributaries and witness the transformative impact of recent dam removals. Alongside scientists and members of the Penobscot Nation, they delve into the river's rich history, ecological resurgence and cultural significance. As Atlantic salmon return to their ancestral spawning grounds for the first time in a century, this expedition captures the river's rebirth and its enduring importance to the local community.

Bird in the Hand: EPISODE 1906
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 8PM

Known for their bold personalities and love of human food, Canada Jays are beloved by hikers, but these seemingly innocent birds may pose a threat to the delicate forest ecosystem. Researchers are investigating the impact of human interaction on these clever corvids, particularly on their role as nest predators. Join the WINDOWS TO THE WILD crew as they climb Mount Hale to uncover the complex relationship between humans, Canada Jays and the survival of other bird species.

Paddle Through History: Part One EPISODE 1907
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 8PM

Follow a group of paddlers as they embark on a 1,500-mile canoe journey around New England. More than just a physical challenge, this expedition delves into indigenous history and culture. Join a crew of Native American paddlers and adventure journalist Freddie Wilkinson as they explore ancient waterways, reconnect with ancestral lands and learn about the cultural significance of the trail. From the rugged Maine coast to the bustling heart of Boston to New York City and then north to the St. Lawrence Seaway, you’ll experience a unique perspective on the region's history and its people.

Paddle Through History: Part Two EPISODE 1908
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, November 21, 2024 at 8PM

Continuing their epic 1500-mile canoe journey around New England, a group of paddlers delve deeper into the region's indigenous history. From the challenges of navigating open waters to the profound connection with ancestral waterways, we’ll explore the importance of preserving Native American traditions. As they paddle through history, the team reflects on the significance of their journey and its impact on future generations.

Mountains and Memories: EPISODE 1909
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, November 28, 2024 at 8PM

Being outdoors means different things to different people. For some, it's a much-needed escape from daily life. For others, it's a chance to reconnect with nature. For Greg Rec and his daughter Corinna, it's a special bond forged on countless trails over the years. Join Willem Lange as he meets this inspiring father-daughter duo at the Cascade trail and discover how their shared adventures have strengthened their relationship.

Student at the Summit : EPISODE 1910
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 8PM

As a meteorology and atmospheric science student from Maryland, Myah Rather is drawn to the extreme weather of Mount Washington for a summer internship. Despite the harsh conditions, she finds a passion for weather forecasting and a sense of community among the observatory staff. Join Willem Lange as he learns about the challenges and rewards of working in such an environment and talks to Myah about her aspirations for the future.

Elevate Youth: EPISODE 1911
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 8PM

Join Willem Lange as he introduces us to Elevate Youth, a Boston-based program dedicated to introducing urban youth to the outdoors. We’ll meet up with Chaya Harris and follow a group of students from Dorchester on a field trip to a cranberry bog, exploring their surroundings with cameras in hand. The program's mission is to create a new generation of environmental stewards and inspire a deeper connection with nature.

Discover France: EPISODE 1912
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 8PM

Our overseas adventure starts in Chamonix, France, the home of the first Winter Olympics. Host Willem Lange and a merry band of travelers make their way from the Alps, where they learn about the impact of climate change on the Mer de Glace glacier, to a Roman engineering marvel, the Pont du Gard, and then on to an ancient city where blue jeans originated. The group winds its way down to the port city of Marseille, a city with a complex history from its Greek and Roman origins to its role in World War II, and the adventure wraps up with a cruise along the fjords of Southern France.

Power from the Gulf: EPISODE 1913
NHPBS Broadcast Premiere: Thursday, December 26, 2024 at 8PM

The proposed Gulf of Maine offshore wind farm could become New England’s next big source of renewable energy. Host Willem Lange visits Rhode Island’s Block Island Wind Farm to delve into the complexities of developing a large-scale offshore wind farm, particularly in the deeper waters of the Gulf of Maine. Commercial fishermen, scientists and industry experts discuss the potential impacts on marine life, the fishing industry, the economy and the environment.

HOW TO WATCH WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE

NHPBS Passport (on-demand)

Viewers can binge-watch the entire new season of WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE online starting today via NHPBS Passport. Passport provides members with extended access to a comprehensive library of quality public television programming. Sign-up is a simple three-step process. Passport is available on most devices: Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, iPhone, iPad, and Android.

Broadcast Premiere Starting October 3rd:

WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE airs Thursdays at 8 PM on NHPBS, with repeats throughout the broadcast schedule. Following their initial broadcast, episodes will be made available to watch online at any time.

Podcast:
Download Willem Lange’s podcast Words from the Wild or listen from your favorite podcast platform. The podcast encompasses short stories and essays from Lange’s book Words from the Wild and from his weekly column, A Yankee Notebook. Hear Lange’s wisdom and perspectives garnered from decades as an outdoor enthusiast. The podcast is a partnership with the Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication at Franklin Pierce University.

WINDOWS TO THE WILD WITH WILLEM LANGE is generously supported by the Alice J. Reen Charitable Trust, Bailey Charitable Foundation, The Fuller Foundation and Road Scholar.

Pressroom Contact

Carla Gordon Russell
Director of Communications
crussell@nhpbs.org
(603) 868-4339