BY NATURE’S DESIGN is a visually stunning PBS Western Reserve docuseries offering approachable insights into the science behind Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania’s fascinating ecosystems. It is the recipient of the Division 2 Public Media Award for Youth Media Education, a recognition of media produced by those under the age of 25.

Season 2 — Inside the Forest

Fridays, Sept. 18–Oct. 2, at 8:30 PM

PBS Western Reserve’s original nature series BY NATURE’S DESIGN returns for a second season, offering a close look at what makes the forest a place of evergreen importance.

Through serene landscapes, approachable science, and visits to the Holden Arboretum, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and Pennsylvania’s Plain Grove Fens Natural Area, this season captures the fascinating forest ecosystems of our region with help from local experts.

“Walking into a forest always seems to take my breath away, so being able to talk to experts about everything that happens inside a forest was a great experience,” said series creator Sophia Gillespie. “I think we can take for granted just how magnificent and sophisticated our environment is. My hope for this season is that people gain a better understanding of not just what we see above the ground, but also what is happening below
the ground.”

Each new episode of the series will be available for free on-demand streaming on the PBS App, YouTube and PBSWesternReserve.org following its broadcast premiere.

Floor to Foliage

Friday, Sept. 18, at 8:30 PM

Repeats Saturday, Sept. 19, at 1:30 AM; Sunday, Sept. 20, at 5:30 PM; and Thursday, Sept. 24, at 3 PM

Airs on Fusion on Saturday, Sept. 19, at 4 PM

Escape into the world of forests and learn what’s happening at each layer of these ecosystems from floor to canopy. Hear from experts on the dangers posed to woodland habitats and the importance of maintaining forest life.

Flora and Fauna

Friday, Sept. 25, at 8:30 PM

Repeats Saturday, Sept. 26, at 1:30 AM; Sunday, Sept. 27, at 5:30 PM; Monday, Sept. 28, at 12:30 AM; Thursday, Oct. 1, at 3 PM

Airs on Fusion on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 4 PM

Investigate the species inhabiting the forest, from wildflowers and old-growth trees to insects and deer, uncovering the importance of native species and their resilience against invasive species. Plus, experts offer tips and resources to help identify species.

Fundamental Fungi

Friday, Oct. 2, at 8:30 PM

Repeats Saturday, Oct. 3, at 1:30 AM; Sunday, Oct. 4, at 5:30 PM; and Thursday, Oct. 8, at 3 PM

Airs on Fusion on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 4 PM

Gain new appreciation for old-growth forests and the hidden network of fungi and roots that strengthen the forest’s resiliency by forming a communication network. Experts share fascinating insights into the science behind this “wood wide web.”

Now Streaming

Season 1 — Wetlands

Wade into the wonderful world of wetlands for a three-episode exploration of these endangered ecosystems and the delicate balance of biodiversity they need to thrive. Through interviews with local experts, this season of BY NATURE’S DESIGN captures everything need-to-know about the region’s swamps, bogs, marshes and fens.

Welcome to the Wetlands

Explore the threats facing Ohio’s wetlands and the fight for their future.

Native & Invasive Species of the Wetlands

Get a closer look at the native and invasive species of our wetlands.

Wetlands: Seasons of Change

Explore wetlands throughout the seasons and the impact of climate change on this delicate ecosystem.

Stream BY NATURE’S DESIGN

Into the Forest Screening & Tour

Saturday, Sept. 26, at 11 AM

Exploration Gateway
5712 12th St NW, Canton, OH 44708

Join PBS Western Reserve and Stark Parks at Exploration Gateway for an exclusive early screening of Season 2 of By Nature's Design, followed by a Q&A session and an educator-led tour around the forest.

By Nature’s Design is a docuseries that highlights a different area of native wildlife in our region each season. The second season focuses on forests. This episode dives into each layer of the forest, from the floor to the foliage.

This event is free and open to all, but registration is required. It is recommended for participants aged 18 and older.

Explore More

State Forests to Explore in Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania

by Reese Urbach, Marketing & Communications Intern

You don’t have to go far to find a great escape into the woods.

What You Can Do to Protect Our Wetlands

by Madeline Myers, Public Relations and Communications Specialist

Change starts at home — discover how you can support our wetlands.

Sophia Gillespie is PBS Western Reserve’s associate producer of content and the creator of BY NATURE’S DESIGN. Originally from Pittsburgh, Sophia is a Kent State graduate with a passion for original storytelling that educates, entertains and inspires. She is also part of the Emmy-winning team behind PBS Western Reserve’s series CITY CENTRIC.