90 Miles from Needles: the Desert Protection Podcast

In this episode host Chris Clarke shares his recent visit to the Amargosa Basin, highlighting the stunning wildflower bloom and the importance of supporting local communities. He also presents three captivating desert stories, including the self-awareness of bursage plants, the connection between humans and coyotes, and the deceptive allure of desert magic.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles," the Desert Protection podcast, we journey with the host to the shores of the rapidly shrinking Great Salt Lake and the steps of the Utah State Capitol. We delve into the urgent efforts led by advocates and scientists to save the critical ecosystem of the lake and protect species like the Wilson's Phalarope through the Endangered Species Act. The discussion highlights the worrying state of the Great Salt Lake, its declining water levels, and the dire consequences for the unique saline ecosystem that supports millions of migratory birds. The plight of the Wilson's Phalarope, a bird species whose existence is threatened by the lake's dehydration, and its petition for federal protection, stands as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of biodiversity and our responsibility in its stewardship. About the Guest(s): Terry Tempest Williams is a renowned author, conservationist, and advocate for environmental justice and human rights. Her work as an essayist and naturalist has been influential in the environmental literature scene. She has a rich publication history on topics related to the American West, wilderness preservation, and social justice. Her notable works include "Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place," a memoir intertwining her family's experience with cancer and the rising Great Salt Lake. Williams' affinity for the natural world and her impact as a voice for conservation have established her as a beloved and respected figure in environmental advocacy. Patrick Donnelly is the Great Basin Program Director for the Center for Biological Diversity, a leading role in the organization's efforts to protect the wildlife and wild places of Nevada and the Great Basin region. His involvement in conservation spans various projects, including species petitioning and habitat preservation. Ryan Carl, a biologist with the group Oikonos Ecosystem Knowledge, specializes in the study of phalaropes and other wildlife dependent on saline lake ecosystems. His work is crucial in understanding and mitigating the threats these species face due to environmental changes. Adelaide Scott represents Utah Youth Environmental Solutions, voicing the concerns and active role of younger generations in environmental conservation and advocacy. Key Takeaways: Notable Quotes: Resources: Center for Biological DiversityUtah Youth for Environmental SolutionsTerry Tempest Williams Listen to the full episode to immerse yourself in the intense and passionate fight to save the Great Salt Lake and prevent an ecological tragedy. Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations and explorations that bring critical environmental issues to the forefront. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke reflects on the significance of the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada. He shares personal stories of his deep connection to the desert landscape and the transformative power it holds. The episode also includes excerpts from the ceremony celebrating the monument's designation and the efforts of local tribes and activists. With stunning descriptions and heartfelt anecdotes, Clarke emphasizes the importance of preserving this sacred and beautiful land.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke interviews Myles Traphagen, a conservationist and scientist working with The Wildlands Network. They discuss the impact of the border wall on wildlife and the environment, as well as the artificial humanitarian crisis at the US-Mexico border. Traphagen highlights the need for a more humane and constructive approach to immigration and emphasizes the importance of understanding the ecological consequences of border policies. Tune in to gain insight into the complex issues surrounding the border and the urgent need for change. The borderlands storymap Myles describes is here. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of the Chihuahuan Desert in this episode of "90 Miles from Needles, the Desert Protection Podcast." Host Chris Clarke explores the challenges of conserving this vast desert, primarily located in Mexico but also extending into Texas and New Mexico. He speaks with Janae Reneaud Field, Kathia Gonzalez, and Rocio Ronquillo from El Paso's Frontera Land Alliance, who share their efforts to protect the Castner Range National Monument and educate the community about the importance of preserving the desert's unique ecosystem. Join them on this journey to connect with and conserve the Chihuahuan Desert.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Chris Clarke shares an excerpt from his book in progress about the Joshua tree, the signature plant of the Mojave Desert. He reflects on his experiences in the desert, the balance of nature, and the kinship of all life. With vivid descriptions of the desert landscape and personal anecdotes, Clarke explores the connection between humans and the natural world.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join host Chris Clarke as he explores the proposed Great Bend of the Gila National Monument with advocates Skylar Begay and Mike Quigley. They discuss the importance of protecting this pristine Sonoran Desert landscape, rich in cultural and natural history. With the threat of encroaching development and destructive recreation, the establishment of the monument would safeguard significant cultural sites and provide habitat for endangered species like the Sonoran pronghorn.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Chris Clarke speaks with Patrick Donnelly of the Center for Biological Diversity about a significant victory in the Nevada Supreme Court regarding water rights. They discuss the case of Coyote Springs, a proposed city in the desert that would have a detrimental effect on the Muddy River and its endangered species. The court ruling sets a precedent for managing groundwater and surface water as a single resource, potentially affecting other areas in Nevada facing similar water issues. This episode sheds light on the importance of protecting desert ecosystems and the interconnectedness of water resources. Read the Center for Biological Diversity's press release on the Nevada Supreme Court decision. Read and subscribe to Patrick Donnelly's email newsletter Sage and Sand. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Chris Clarke discusses the successful fight against a proposed glamping project called Flamingo 640 in the California desert. Clarke is joined by community member Caroline Partamian, former president of the Homestead Valley Community Council Justin Merino, and Luke Basulto from the National Parks Conservation Association. They discuss the negative impacts the project would have had on wildlife, traffic, and the peaceful atmosphere of the area. Through community organizing and advocacy, they were able to successfully defeat the project. Tune in to learn more about their efforts to protect the desert landscape. Save our Deserts Website is here. Listen to Other Desert Radio here. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Utility-Scale Solar energy development is shaping the future of solar in the western United States. In this episode, host Chris Clarke explores the different alternatives proposed in the draft and their potential impact on public lands. He discusses the exclusion areas, the size of land available for solar development, and the importance of considering rooftop solar as an alternative. Listeners are encouraged to comment on the draft and make their voices heard. Tune in to learn more about the future of solar energy in the desert. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke introduces four books that will challenge preconceptions about the desert. The first book, "The Arid Lands: History, Power, and Knowledge" by Diana K. Davis, challenges the notion that deserts are wastelands in need of development. The second book, "Peoples of a Sonoran Desert Oasis" by Jared Orsi, explores the history and culture of Quito Bacito and the impact of border policies on the oasis. The third book, "Dead in Their Tracks" by John Annerino, sheds light on the human cost of crossing the desert borderlands. Lastly, "Chasing Centuries" by Ron Parker uncovers ancient agave cultivars and their significance in Native American cultures. Tune in to discover a new perspective on the desert. Buy the books: The Arid Lands; History, Power, Knowledge Chasing Centuries Peoples of a Sonoran Desert Oasis: Recovering the Lost History and Culture of Quitobaquito Dead in Their Tracks: Crossing America's Desert Borderlands in the New Era Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About The Guest(s): Dr. Christina Aiello is a bighorn sheep biologist and research associate with Oregon State University. She has dedicated her career to studying and conserving desert wildlife, particularly desert tortoises and desert bighorn sheep. With a focus on the Mojave Desert region, Dr. Aiello's research examines the impacts of habitat loss, fragmentation, and climate change on bighorn sheep populations. Summary: Dr. Christina Aiello joins host Chris Clarke to discuss the conservation of desert bighorn sheep in the Mojave Desert. They explore the threats facing these iconic animals, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and the spread of respiratory diseases. Dr. Aiello highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity and connectivity between bighorn populations to ensure their long-term survival. They also discuss the potential impacts of the proposed high-speed rail project on bighorn sheep movement and the need for wildlife crossings to mitigate habitat fragmentation. Despite the challenges, Dr. Aiello remains hopeful and inspired by the resilience of desert wildlife. As a bonus, desert writer Louise Mathias offers a related commentary on the likely impact of the proposed Soda Mountain Solar Project on bighorn sheep in Mojave National Preserve. Key Takeaways: Quotes: Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summary: Chris discusses the challenges that the deserts will face in 2024, including increased utility scale development of renewable energy, the threat of lithium mining, and the continuation of border policies that waive environmental laws. Chris emphasizes the need for accurate advocacy for the deserts and challenges the misconception that the desert is a defective version of other ecosystems. He introduces the Desert Advocacy Media Network and highlights the importance of support to continue their work in providing accurate information and promoting desert protection. Key Takeaways: Quotes: How to Donate Use the podcast's Patreon account at 90milesfromneedles.com/patreonhttps://facebook.com/ninetymilesfromneedles to donate via Network For GoodBecome a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About The Guest(s): Obi Kaufmann is an artist, author, and naturalist known for his California Field Atlas series. His latest book, "The Deserts of California," explores the biodiversity and ecological systems of California's deserts. Summary: Obi Kaufmann joins hosts Chris Clarke and Alicia Pike on the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast to discuss his latest book, "The Deserts of California." The book is part of his California Field Atlas series, which aims to explore the how of ecological systems rather than the what or where. Kaufmann shares his fascination with the complexity and diversity of California's deserts and the importance of celebrating and understanding their biodiversity. He also discusses the challenges of conservation and preservation in the face of development and exploitation. Kaufmann emphasizes the need for a democratic approach to finding solutions and the power of combining data and love in stewardship efforts. The conversation touches on the changing nature of the deserts, the importance of oral tradition and sharing knowledge, and the role of beauty and art in inspiring curiosity and hope. Key Takeaways: Obi Kaufmann's podcast with Greg Sarris, Place and Purpose, can be found here: https://www.placeandpurpose.live/ Order The Deserts of California here: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-deserts-of-california-a-california-field-atlas/19407146?ean=9781597146180 Quotes: Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a minute since we published an episode, in part because Chris and Alicia have had complicated lives. Here's how we contend with bad news inside and out of the desert: we go to ground in the desert.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We delve into the world of the saguaro cactus, exploring its cultural significance, scientific studies, and more. We talk to journalist Henry Brean of the Arizona Daily Star and Tucson storyteller Audrey Scheere about different aspects of this magnificent plant, the threats it faces, and how people interact with it — for good or ill. Join us as we uncover the secrets of the saguaro! Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris and Alicia discuss the recent victory in delaying exploration for lithium near Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. They also announce the formation of the Desert Advocacy Media Network, the podcast's new nonprofit organization home. The hosts then delve into their love for the desert plant, the Globe Mallow. They share personal stories and observations about the plant's adaptability and its role in the desert ecosystem.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mason Voehl from the Amargosa Conservancy joins hosts Chris Clarke and Alicia Pike to discuss the threat posed by a Canadian mining company's plans to conduct exploratory drilling for lithium near the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Nevada. The drilling could potentially puncture the aquifer and cause catastrophic damage to the fragile ecosystem. The hosts highlight the conflict between the need for renewable energy and the preservation of biodiversity, and call for public support to protect Ash Meadows. They provide a petition and encourage donations to the Amargosa Conservancy to help in the fight. Episode photo of Devils Hole pupfish by Olin Feuerbacher/US Fish and Wildlife Service Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We spend a lot of time correcting misapprehensions about the desert. But don't get the impression we think we're flawless! We've made our share of mistakes about the desert as well. In this episode, we share some of the things we once thought about the desert that are just plain wrong, on topics ranging from rainfall to rattlesnakes. And of course we do this on a hike in the Mojave Desert. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris and Alicia talk to Elizabeth Paige of Native American Land Conservancy and Save Our Springs. Podcast episode photo by John Fowler. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.