Afleveringen
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Join host Chris Clarke and guest Dr. Naomi Fraga, Director of Conservation Programs at the California Botanic Garden, as they explore the challenges and successes in desert plant conservation in Nevada. Discover the plight of Tiehm's buckwheat threatened by a lithium-boron mining project and the promising steps toward protection for the Tecopa bird's beak. Navigate the complexities of environmental protection amid rapid industrialization and learn about the vibrant ecosystems that hang in the balance. Discover how these efforts intertwine with broader themes of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
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In this special Election Day 2024 episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris sheds light on the crucial role of civic engagement in the ongoing struggle to protect North America’s deserts. Released strategically on a day when decisions hold power over environmental policies, this episode emphasizes the dual efforts needed both in voting and ongoing advocacy to drive the change they wish to see in environmental and desert policies.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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About the Guest(s):
Chris Clarke is the host of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." He brings a wealth of knowledge about wildlife and conservation topics, particularly relating to the American Southwest's deserts.Rick LoBello is the Education and Conservation Curator at the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, with previous experience as a park ranger at Big Bend National Park. A founding member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rick has decades of experience advocating for the conservation of the Mexican wolf.
Erin Hunt is an advocate with Lobos of the Southwest. She has over 16 years of experience working on Mexican wolf conservation, particularly in public education, outreach, and coexistence efforts with ranching communities.
Philip Sozanski is an AP U.S. History and AP Research teacher, and an independent historian focusing on environmental history. He is a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, with a strong interest in Texas's natural heritage and history of wildlife conservation.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into the crucial work of the Texas Lobo Coalition to restore the Mexican wolf to its former ranges in West Texas. Featuring insightful discussions with Rick LoBello, Erin Hunt, and Philip Sozanski, the episode captures the passion and urgency behind their conservation efforts. The group's goal is to foster coexistence between wolves and locals, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits wildlife and people alike. Throughout the episode, listeners learn about the historical and ecological significance of the Mexican wolf, also known as the Lobo, in Texas. Rick LoBello shares his extensive experience with wolf conservation, while Erin Hunt discusses the importance of restoring ecosystems to ensure a future for diverse species, including the Mexican wolf. Philip Sozanski highlights the historical challenges and the cultural fears attached to wolves, which have persisted for centuries. Together, they make a compelling case for reintroducing this essential apex predator, emphasizing the potential positive impact on the Texas landscape.
Key Takeaways:
The Texas Lobo Coalition works tirelessly to create support among local landowners and the broader community for reintroducing the Mexican wolf to Texas.
Mexican wolves once roamed parts of Texas but were hunted to near extinction by the mid-20th century due to conflicts with livestock farming.
Current conservation efforts emphasize the ecological benefits of wolves, including maintaining healthy prey populations and ecosystems.
Myths and fears about wolves persist, but evidence shows they pose little threat to human safety; education is crucial to change outdated perceptions.
Restoring the Mexican wolf requires collaboration, empathy, and understanding that successful coexistence leads to healthier environments for all.
Notable Quotes:
"Our main aim is to find a way to give this animal a chance to return to its native landscape." – Rick LoBello 2. "We're not necessarily asking people to love wolves. We're asking people, what do you need from this land that you care about?" – Erin Hunt "Texans are rabid about their history and about their heritage, and the natural history of Texas is incomplete without the presence of this iconic species." – Philip Sozanski "Coexistence is absolutely possible. We know it works." – Erin HuntResources:
Texas Lobo Coalition: [texaslobocoalition.org](https://www.texaslobocoalition.org)
Lobos of the Southwest: [https://mexicanwolves.org/](https://www. https://mexicanwolves.org/) *
Wolf Conservation Center: [nywolf.org](https://www.nywolf.org)
Join us as we explore fascinating topics about desert wildlife conservation and the intricate dynamics of ecosystems. Listen to the full episode to discover how you too can support efforts to bring back the majestic Mexican wolf to its rightful home.
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Juniper Harrower
Juniper Harrower is an artist and ecologist currently serving as an art professor at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. Born in Palm Springs and raised in the high desert, Harrower has a profound connection with desert ecology. Her work is deeply intertwined with Joshua tree ecosystems, blending art with scientific inquiry to explore the impact of climate change on desert habitats. Harrower's work has been featured in academic and artistic spheres, with a focus on ecological relationships and environmental restoration.Sant Khalsa
Sant Khalsa is an accomplished artist and curator who has been actively engaged in environmental issues through her artwork for over four decades. A professor emerita from Cal State San Bernardino, Khalsa has contributed extensively to eco-conscious art practices. Her curatorial work, especially on the exhibition "Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees," highlights her commitment to the intersection of art, environment, and activism.Chris Clarke
Chris Clarke is a presenter and writer with a keen focus on environmental conservation, particularly involving desert ecology and Joshua trees. He has a history of extensive research and analysis on ecological subjects, bringing both scientific and cultural insights into discussions on plant conservation.Episode Summary:
Explore the rich intersections of art, ecology, and desert life in this episode with Juniper Harrower, Sant Khalsa, and Chris Clarke. As curators and contributors to the "Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book, Sant and Juniper provide in-depth insights into their journey from conception to realization of this comprehensive project. Highlighted by compelling storytelling, the episode delves into their deep-rooted connections to the desert, blending scientific research with artistic expression to illuminate the pressing environmental issues affecting Joshua trees today.
The conversation covers the inspiration behind the exhibition, aiming to elevate the dialogue around Joshua Trees through a blend of factual inquiry and creative artwork. The exhibition, part of the Getty-supported PST art and science Collide, explores the rich ecological, cultural, and historical narratives surrounding Joshua Trees. Sant and Juniper share the collaborative process of engaging over 50 artists, writers, and scientists (and some contributors that fit into more than just one of these categories) to create multidimensional representations of the desert ecosystem.
Key Takeaways:
Integration of Art and Science: The "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" project successfully merges scientific research with artistic expression to present a comprehensive understanding of Joshua trees and their ecosystems.
Curatorial Approach: Sant Khalsa emphasizes the exhibition's unique curatorial approach by highlighting its breadth and the synergy between artists who live in the Joshua Tree area.
Community Involvement: Both the book and exhibition foster community engagement by raising awareness of ecological issues and promoting proactive environmental stewardship.
Environmental Threats: The show underscores the urgent threats faced by Joshua Trees, including climate change, industrial development, and habitat destruction.
Cultural Significance: Juniper and Sant explore the deep-rooted cultural symbolism of Joshua Trees and address historical and current challenges through art and science narratives.
Resources:
Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees: Inlandia Institute
Museum Of Art and History: https://www.lancastermoah.org/
Juniper Harrower: Juniper's Work
Sant Khalsa: Sant's Work
Immerse yourself fully in the "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book to appreciate the intricate dance of art, science, and nature presented by Juniper Harrower and Sant Khalsa. Consider this episode a portal into deeper understanding and appreciation of desert life, with a wealth of knowledge that emphasizes sustainability, cultural identity, and ecological balance. Stay tuned for more from the 90 Miles from Needles podcast, illuminating the vast and vibrant landscapes of our deserts.
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About the Guest:
Ben Goldfarb is an award-winning environmental journalist and prolific author known for his focus on the intersection of human activity and wildlife. His works, including Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet, explore groundbreaking ecological concepts and have been recognized by outlets such as the New York Times. Goldfarb's influential book Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter has received critical acclaim for its insightful examination of the ecological significance of beavers. He currently resides in Colorado.Episode Summary: In this episode of 90 Miles from Needles, host Chris Clarke engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb. The focus is on the nuanced field of road ecology and its implications on desert ecosystems. Clarke and Goldfarb delve into the effects of roads on wildlife, touching on staggering statistics like the million animals killed by cars daily in the U.S. alone. They explore how roadkill, highways, and infrastructures challenge species such as desert tortoises and pronghorns in arid regions, combining environmental insight with ground-level observations. As the conversation unfolds, Goldfarb expands on the transformative role of road ecology—a growing scientific discipline that examines the relationship between transportation infrastructures and ecological systems. He highlights pressing issues including hydrological impacts, wildlife mobility, and innovative solutions like wildlife crossings to promote ecological connectivity. Clarke and Goldfarb also explore technologies, policies, and community efforts aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of roads on the environment, weaving in discussions on living sustainability in desert habitats.
Key Takeaways
Road Ecology Definition: Road ecology is a dynamic scientific field focusing on how transportation infrastructure affects the environment, with extended applications from mitigating roadkill to supporting wildlife crossings. Impact on Desert Ecosystems: Roads in desert landscapes alter wildlife movement and hydrology, posing severe threats to species needing extensive ranges like the desert tortoise and pronghorn.
Wildlife Crossings: Successful wildlife crossings such as the Liberty Canyon project are vital in reducing road mortality and ensuring wildlife connectivity, especially in regions with high biodiversity.
Human Infrastructure Influence: The conversation highlights how human infrastructure can drive either positive ecological developments as in beaver habitats or embody detrimental impacts like excessive road development.
Beavers in Arid Lands: Goldfarb emphasizes that beavers once played a crucial role in maintaining riparian ecosystems in deserts, underlining the potential for ecosystem restoration.
Notable Quotes
"Road ecology is this relatively small but fast-growing field of science that looks at all of the different connections between roads and nature." – Ben Goldfarb "Beavers are sort of integral to those systems… the amount of lush flourishing in desert landscapes is incredible." – Ben Goldfarb
"Every ecological impact stems from a road to some extent. Roads are the root of all evil." – Ben Goldfarb
"We happen to do it in a way that is incredibly detrimental to biodiversity." – Ben Goldfarb
"In some ways, we and beavers are these weird mirror images of each other." – Ben Goldfarb
Resources
Ben Goldfarb's Book: Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet Ben Goldfarb's Book: Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter
Don’t miss out on this enlightening episode as Ben Goldfarb shares his invaluable insights into road ecology and its profound impact on desert ecosystems. Follow 90 Miles from Needles for more episodes that delve into pressing environmental issues and explore sustainable solutions.
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About the Guest:
Kyle Roerink is the Executive Director of the Great Basin Water Network. Roerink has been a pivotal figure in advocating for sustainable water management across the Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. His organization has played a significant role in addressing critical issues related to water rights, environmental protection, and the ecological impact of industry and urban development in the arid Southwest.Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris Clarke speaks with Kyle Roerink, Executive Director of the Great Basin Water Network, about the ongoing battles and emerging concerns regarding water rights and environmental conservation in the arid regions of the Great Basin and the Colorado River Basin. The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about an unusual statement from the former president regarding a mythical "faucet" to solve water issues in California, setting an intriguing tone about broader misconceptions and real challenges. The episode delves deep into current projects and proposals that threaten the water security and ecological balance in the regions. Roerink highlights the pressing issues surrounding lithium mining in Green River, Utah, and its potential environmental impact. The conversation explores the novel direct lithium extraction technology and the legal precedents it may set, impacting future mining projects in the area. The discussion also touches on the alarming number of proposed new dams and diversions in the Upper Colorado River Basin and the implications for downstream water rights and ecological health.
Key Takeaways:
Direct Lithium Extraction and Environmental Concerns: The controversial lithium mining project in Green River, Utah, utilizing direct lithium extraction technology, poses several environmental risks and legal challenges, particularly concerning groundwater rights and public welfare.
Over-Allocation of Colorado River Water: The ongoing issues of water over-allocation on paper versus actual availability, exacerbated by climate change and decreasing water flows, put immense pressure on water management across the Colorado River Basin.
Ecological and Legal Implications of New Dams and Diversions: The numerous proposed dam and diversion projects in the Upper Colorado River Basin underscore the need for rigorous scrutiny and sustainable planning to prevent exacerbating water shortages and ecological damage.
Glen Canyon Dam and Long-term Water Management: Discussion on the feasibility and future of maintaining both Lake Mead and Lake Powell reservoirs, with a growing consensus favoring prioritizing Lake Mead due to infrastructural and water delivery benefits.
Community and Environmental Advocacy: Highlighting the importance of grassroots advocacy, collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and the significant role of public knowledge and engagement in addressing the complex water issues in the arid Southwest.
Notable Quotes:
Kyle Roerink: "We can only do the green energy transition once. There's no room for error, there's no margin for error."
Chris Clarke: "There's a whole lot of money that you can make in destroying the desert, but not too much in saving it."
Kyle Roerink: "Mother Nature is the best teacher."
Kyle Roerink: "I think, like post federal lands Policy and Management act, that post Flitma era and push that really bolstered the environmental movement."
Kyle Roerink: "If we're to believe the nation's best scientists, the worst is yet to come."
Resources:
Great Basin Water Network https://greatbasinwater.org/
Living Rivers http://www.livingrivers.org/
Glen Canyon Institute https://www.glencanyon.org/
UC Berkeley Climate Futures Lab https://nature.berkeley.edu/ClimateFuturesLab
For more groundbreaking discussions about desert protection and water conservation, don't forget to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more insightful content from "90 Miles from Needles." The desert needs your support and awareness now more than ever.
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About the Guest:
Dr. Michael E. Ketterer is a Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at Northern Arizona University. With extensive expertise in analytical chemistry and environmental analysis of radionuclides such as uranium and plutonium, Dr. Ketterer has dedicated his recent research to studying hazardous contamination from historical nuclear activities. He collaborates with various organizations to unveil significant public health and environmental threats, focusing particularly on fallout from the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, New Mexico.Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke is joined by Dr. Michael Ketterer, a seasoned expert in analytical chemistry and environmental radioactivity. Together, they explore the often-overlooked subject of plutonium contamination in Los Alamos, New Mexico.
Dr. Ketterer's in-depth research reveals shocking levels of contamination left over from Manhattan Project activities in the 1940s and onward. Living in close proximity to this historic contamination presents significant health risks, which have been largely underreported until now. Dr. Ketterer details his findings, explaining how he independently verified the presence of dangerous amounts of plutonium in water and sediment samples in Acid Canyon, a site previously deemed "cleaned up" by federal authorities. He discusses the broader environmental and public health implications, emphasizing how this hidden contamination endangers not only the local communities but also areas downstream of Los Alamos.
This episode is a clarion call for greater public awareness and stricter environmental standards to protect against long-lasting radiological hazards. Key Takeaways: Undetected Contaminants: Dr. Ketterer’s research uncovers significant levels of plutonium contamination in Acid Canyon, Los Alamos, contradicting official cleanup claims. Health Risks and Oversight: Federal authorities and local scientists have underestimated or dismissed the health risks presented by the historical contamination, raising concerns about regulatory oversight. Isotopic Analysis for Identification: Using isotopic analysis, Dr. Ketterer shows that the contamination traces back to early uranium processing activities from the Manhattan Project, not just global fallout.
Environmental Justice Issues: Downstream communities, including Pueblo populations, face ongoing risks from long-standing contamination, underlining severe environmental justice issues.
Policy Implications: The discussion advocates for the expansion of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to include New Mexicans affected by historic nuclear activities, along with stricter regulatory standards.
Notable Quotes:
"It's mind-blowing to find 80 picocuries per liter of plutonium in the water. That’s extremely contaminated by any standard." "The land, soil, and plants downstream are contaminated forever, affecting people who had no say in these activities." "The government's lack of an apology and acknowledgment of the damage done is a critical issue. As Americans, we should apologize to New Mexicans." "Living near a site like this requires permanent environmental monitoring. The government won't do it for you; you have to take matters into your own hands." "The goal here is awareness and public participation. People, especially younger generations, need to question the reality of their environment and demand accountability."Resources:
Nuclear Watch New Mexico Interactive Map (https://nukewatch.org/interactive-map-plutonium-contamination-and-migration-around-lanl/)
Searchlight New Mexico (https://searchlightnm.org/) - A publication dedicated to investigative journalism, including environmental issues
Dive into this enlightening episode to understand the serious implications of long-term plutonium contamination and the urgent need for public awareness and regulatory action.
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Chris Clarke delves into the controversial final programmatic environmental impact statement for the western Solar Plan, revealing the potential ecological damage from vast solar developments across 11 states. Despite personal support and advocacy for solar power, Clarke critiques the plan's sprawling approach and highlights a more sustainable alternative that might surprise you. The episode emphasizes the urgent need for smarter solar deployment to mitigate climate change without sacrificing crucial desert ecosystems. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis and a compelling argument for better planning in renewable energy projects.
• Chris Clarke's Email Newsletter: Letters from the Desert• USGS Land Use Data: https://www.usgs.gov/news/estimates-areal-extent-us-parking-lots-now-available
• Western Solar Plan:** (Extensive documentation on the 2024 and 2012 Western Solar Plans for context on the policy discussed.) https://blmsolar.anl.gov/solar-peis-2023/
Listeners are encouraged to tune into this informative episode to gain deeper insights into solar energy policies, their environmental impacts, and the potential for intellige
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Public lands in Utah take center stage as Governor Spencer Cox announces a lawsuit aiming to shift control of those lands from federal to state hands. Chris Clarke explores the implications with Jonathan Thompson, a long-time public lands journalist. They dissect the motivations behind the lawsuit, potential impacts on conservation and recreation, and the significance of the proposed change for implementing laws like NEPA. Is Utah's push a genuine effort for better land management, or a pretext for more development and less regulation? Dive into this detailed discussion to understand what’s at stake for Utah’s cherished landscapes.
Jonathan's newsletter The Land Desk can be read here.
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The rise of renewable energy projects, particularly solar farms, in desert regions has sparked concern regarding their impact on native wildlife, including the desert tortoises. Solar panels cover vast tracts of land to capture sunlight efficiently, which can lead to habitat loss for the tortoises. They can be displaced from their native habitats, or their genetic connectivity can be disrupted. Moreover, the construction and maintenance of these solar farms can lead to direct harm or increase the risk of predator attacks as the landscape changes.
We talk to Kevin Emmerich of Basin and Range Watch about his group's proposal to protect thousands of acres in Nevada's Pahrump Valley by establishing an Area of Critical Environmental Concern, a BLM designation that could rein in the most destructive projects.
Basin and Range Watch: https://www.basinandrangewatch2.org/
Subscribe to Basin and Range Watch's email newsletter here.
Listen to our episode Shannon Salter Fights to Save the Desert.
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In this heartfelt episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke shares an evocative reading from his book, "Walking with Zeke," reflecting on meaningful experiences with his previous dog Zeke. This story reveals the depth of his connection to his pets and nature, illustrating the profound impact these relationships have on his life and work. The touching narrative about camping under the moonlight in Red Rock Canyon offers listeners a serene and introspective break from the podcast's usual format.
Key Takeaways:
Balancing Activism and Personal Life: The importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially for activists.
Personal Challenges: Insights into Chris's recent struggles with extreme weather and his dog's health, fostering a connection with the audience.
Evocative Storytelling: Chris's reading from "Walking with Zeke" demonstrates his deep bond with nature and his pets.
Notable Quotes:
"Taking care of the desert comes from the same root as taking care of your family, taking care of those around you, however you define family."
"My dog breathes soft against my ribs, and an owl takes wing from the far cliffs, and I sit here, and Zeke with me, and he leans tonight, this moment..."
"It is a thigmotropic partnership, this pairing of dog and human. We crave each other's touch..."
"We arrived too late to claim the sheltered campsites at the base of those cliffs. The wind has scoured this campsite clean of all but the Joshua trees."
"I will recall this moment. I will remember this moment forever, I think to myself."
Resources:
90 Miles from Needles - Donate
Mazamar Art Pottery
Walking with Zeke by Chris Clarke
Don't miss out on this moving episode of "90 Miles from Needles" to feel a deeper connection to the desert and the personal lives intertwined with its protection. Stay tuned for more insightful stories and critical discussions about environmental preservation.
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Chris chats with Lucas Basulto, president of the Desert Advocacy Media Network, from a swelteringly hot living room about snakes in the desert. They trade snake stories, discuss common misconceptions about these reptiles, and stress the ecological importance of preserving their habitats. From Lucas' childhood snake-collecting antics to how to handle snake bites and the issue of road mortality, this episode offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of desert snakes. Whether you're a herpetology enthusiast or just snake-curious, this episode offers valuable insights and engaging discussions.
The site Luke mentioned for identifying California snakes is californiaherps.com. Similar sites focusing on snakes of other states: Here are Arizona and Texas and New Mexico and Nevada.
The video of Chris' dog Heart chilling out with a cranky red racer (a.k.a. coachwhip) is here.
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A representative of a Canadian mining firm poised to damage Ash Meadows and the Amargosa says opponents might be shills for oil and gas companies. We take him to task. We often hear that sacrificing natural landscapes is a necessary evil for renewable energy. But as Rebecca Wisent says, “...the conversation now is almost entirely about ways to handle climate change without changing how we live.” We can do better.
We're going on a brief hiatus: Back July 9.
About the Guest(s):
Chris Clarke is the host of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast and a prominent advocate for desert protection. His extensive work includes contributions to the Desert Advocacy Media Network, where he serves as the driving force behind several conservation initiatives. Chris is also heavily involved in local grassroots movements and has a wealth of knowledge about the ecological and cultural significance of desert environments.
Joe G. is the voiceover artist for the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast. His role adds a dynamic and engaging element to the show's introduction and closing segments.
Episode Summary:
Welcome to another impactful episode of the "90 Miles from Needles: Desert Protection Podcast," hosted by Chris Clarke. In this emotionally charged episode, Chris dedicates the show to his late brother-in-law, Greg Oberg, and announces a brief hiatus to address personal and professional commitments. Moving forward, Chris dives deep into the heated opposition faced by Rover Critical Minerals in Amargosa Valley, where residents are raising concerns about the potential environmental damage of lithium mining.
Throughout the episode, Chris Clarke utilizes his platform to shed light on the environmental and social ramifications of resource extraction, highlighting the stark opposition from local communities, environmental advocates, and indigenous tribes. With compelling arguments, he challenges the narrative that pits renewable energy initiatives against environmental conservation, calling out the misleading tactics used by companies like Rover Critical Minerals. By emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that considers both human needs and ecological preservation, Chris provides a thought-provoking discourse on modern energy policies and desert protection.
Key Takeaways:
Personal Tribute: Chris Clarke dedicates this episode to his late brother-in-law, Greg Oberg, and announces a short hiatus for personal and professional reasons. Community Opposition: The residents of Amargosa Valley are unanimously opposed to Rover Critical Minerals' lithium mining plans, citing threats to local groundwater and ecosystems. Environmental Conservation: Chris highlights the tension between renewable energy projects and environmental protection, criticizing the tactics of some industry proponents. Desert Advocacy: The episode underscores the importance of protecting desert habitats and respecting the cultural and ecological significance of these landscapes. Unified Resistance: Diverse groups, including environmentalists, local communities, and indigenous tribes, are coming together to resist harmful mining practices in the desert.Notable Quotes:
"Gregory Oberg was an excellent brother-in-law. Thank you for everything, Greg." - Chris Clarke "People in Amargosa Valley are justifiably upset at Rover Critical Minerals." - Chris Clarke "There is no renewable energy industry. There is just the energy industry." - Chris Clarke "It's just ego. Just ego is all it is." - Chris Clarke "The degree to which we, as a species, disregard the importance of any other species we share this planet with…" - Chris ClarkeResources:
Desert Advocacy Media Network: thedamn.org Amargosa Conservancy: https://amargosaconservancy.org Las Vegas Review Journal: (Article by Alan Halaly referenced in the episode) https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/youre-just-the-suit-residents-spar-with-mining-exec-at-tense-town-hall-3073095/ Rebecca Wisent's Substack Newsletter: Fearless Green https://fearlessgreen.substack.com/For those passionate about environmental conservation and interested in the delicate balance between energy development and ecological preservation, this episode is a must-listen. Stay tuned for more from "90 Miles from Needles," and join us at the next watering hole. See you on July 9.
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About the Guest(s):
Mitch Miller: Mitch Miller is a seasoned landscape photographer based in Joshua Tree, California. With a career that started in 1981, Mitch has a unique affection for capturing night sky images. His extensive knowledge of Joshua Tree National Park and a deep connection to the desert landscape informs his artistic pursuits. Mitch's work reflects a profound appreciation for the interrelationship between natural beauty and celestial phenomena.
Steve Bardwell: Steve Bardwell is the President of the Morongo Basin Conservation Association. Steve has been an advocate for desert preservation since 1990, contributing significantly to the community’s efforts to protect natural resources, including the enactment of the San Bernardino County Light Trespass Ordinance. His dedication to environmental conservation is backed by a deep appreciation for the desert environment and its intrinsic value.
Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode of 90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast, host Chris Clarke delves into the importance of dark skies over the Southern California desert. With guests Mitch Miller and Steve Bardwell, the conversation navigates the significance of reducing light pollution for the benefit of human health, wildlife, and astrophotography. This episode also updates listeners on the latest progress of the light trespass ordinance in San Bernardino County.
Beginning with an update on Chris's dog, Heart, and a shout-out to followers and contributors, the conversation soon shifts to the importance of dark skies. Mitch Miller shares his journey with night sky photography, describing its artistic and sensory aspects. Steve Bardwell discusses the scientific reasons behind the need for dark skies including the detrimental effects of artificial lighting on human and wildlife health. This episode is filled with practical insights into the ongoing struggle to preserve dark skies and the pivotal roles played by various organizations in enforcing regulations.
Key Takeaways:
The Importance of Dark Skies: Dark skies are crucial for human health, wildlife, and preserving natural night views. The Light Trespass Ordinance: Enacted to reduce light pollution, this ordinance impacts exterior lighting regulations in San Bernardino County. Community Involvement: The successful passage of the light trespass ordinance involved concerted efforts from local and national organizations. Astrophotography Appeal: Mitch Miller’s night sky photography work underscores the beauty of naturally dark environments and their importance. Practical Lighting Solutions: Tips on how to implement dark sky-compliant lighting using simple, cost-effective methods are shared.Notable Quotes:
"Landscape photography is about knowing where to stand and when to stand there." – Mitch Miller "Nature evolved with dark skies, and artificial light is throwing a wrench in the whole work." – Steve Bardwell "Light pollution is like bringing up the house lights during the best song." – Mitch Miller "It's glare that creates unsafe conditions because you can't see when you have a lot of glare." – Steve Bardwell "You can take simple steps like painting the inside of a fixture or using a rusted can to shield light efficiently." – Steve BardwellResources:
World Atlas of Night Sky Brightness: darkskymap.com/nightskybrightness Darksky International: darksky.org Morongo Basin Conservation Association: https://www.mbconservation.org/ Mitch Miller’s Photography: https://www.fineearthphotography.com/For more on preserving our desert environment and to stay updated on the fight against light pollution, be sure to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for upcoming content from 90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast.
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Surviving and thriving in desert heat require a combination of knowledge, preparation, and vigilance. Understanding the immediate dangers, recognizing early symptoms of heat injuries, and taking practical precautions can help ensure safety for everyone venturing into these extreme conditions. By sharing these insights, we can better equip ourselves and our communities to handle the increasing temperatures and enjoy the desert’s unique beauty responsibly.
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Daniel Leivas, Southern Paiute-Chemehuevi from Lake Havasu, shares his journey of reviving ancestral agricultural practices on the Chemehuevi Nation's traditional farm. He narrates how his family transformed the land into a thriving ecosystem. Exploring connections between the land, water, and spirit, Leivas recounts battles with wildlife, environmental conservation efforts, and cultural preservation. Chris Clarke discusses the broader impact of water projects on Native lands while highlighting the resilience and cultural revival spearheaded by Leivas and his community. A deep dive into heritage, sustainability, and the power of connection.
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In this episode we welcome back Mason Voehl from the Amargosa Conservancy for an engaging and informative update on the situation surrounding Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and the threat of lithium mining explorations by Rover Critical Minerals. As environmental defenders, the Conservancy alongside partners like the Center for Biological Diversity and the Nature Conservancy has successfully pressed for a pause on Rover's exploration. But Rover has responded by upping the ante.
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Discover the ancient plants of the desert in this episode of 90 Miles from Needles. From the 11,700-year-old King Clone creosote bush to the surprisingly long lifespans of cholla cacti and Mojave yuccas, host Chris Clarke explores the remarkable longevity of these desert plants. Learn how scientists determine the age of these plants through historic photographs and longitudinal studies. Gain a new appreciation for the resilience and beauty of these ancient desert inhabitants.
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About our Guest:
Jon Rezendes is an influential conservationist with a dedication to the preservation and rewilding of the Chihuahuan Desert region, particularly in El Paso, Texas. His military background brought him to El Paso, where he found a second home amid the natural beauty of the desert landscape. As the Vice President of the Frontera Land Alliance and a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rezendes is a champion for environmental causes in the region. He is a strong advocate for the protection of the Rio Bosque wetland, a critical riparian habitat threatened by development proposals.
Episode Summary:
In this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke engages with Jon Rezendes to explore the rich ecological landscape and current environmental threats facing the Chihuahuan Desert, particularly the battle over the Rio Bosque wetlands in El Paso. The conversation provides an in-depth look at the socio-political challenges and the community's fight to prevent detrimental changes.
Jon Rezendes passionately discusses the significance of protecting the delicate Rio Bosque wetlands against proposed infrastructure projects such as a disruptive highway. The area, crucial for migratory birds and local flora and fauna, faces the pressure of urban sprawl and industrial traffic which could irrevocably damage this unique ecosystem. Supported by the local community and organizations, Rezendes highlights the urgent need for advocacy and action to sustain this natural gem. He envisions a future where rewilding efforts expand, forever changing the local desert into a cradle of biodiversity that could one day welcome apex predators like the Mexican wolf back into the region.
Key Takeaways:
The Rio Bosque wetlands near El Paso are a vital habitat for over 260 bird species and numerous other animals, yet they are currently endangered by various threats, including proposed highway projects. Jon Rezendes advocates for realistic and sustainable alternatives to alleviate traffic that don't damage vital ecosystems, such as improving the existing rail transit system. Defenders of the wetland are rallying against Texas DOT's proposal for highway construction, gathering community support through petitions and local agency involvement. The vision for the Rio Grande Valley is one of expanded rewilding, potentially re-establishing apex predators like the Mexican wolf and removing barriers such as the border wall for ecological restoration. It's critical for the conservation community and influencers beyond Texas to support the efforts to protect and rewild the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystems.Notable Quotes:
"We intend to shine enough light on this situation to make sure that we're elevating the voices of the people in Socorro that don't want their home to be turned into an unrecognizable industrial wasteland." "El Paso is small in terms of our influence, but we are mighty in terms of our grassroots efforts." "We are not going to let this happen. This is absolutely backwards, and we will do anything in our power to prevent a highway through our wetland." "Nothing would make me happier to know that wolves are running up and down the Rio Grande Valley again, passing between Mexico and the United States." "Rio Bosque is fighting for survival amid Texas' broader environmental narrative, where prosperous future melds with respect for the land and vibrant riparian forests."Resources:
Follow Friends of the Rio Bosque on Instagram:@friendsriobosquewetlands Comment on the Border East highway before May 14 (Even if you're not a Texan). Texas Lobo Coalition: Texas Lobo CoalitionAs we delve into the rich tapestry of environmental activism and the future of the Chihuahuan Desert, we invite listeners to experience the full episode as Jon Rezendes shares his urgent advocacy call for Rio Bosque wetlands. Tune in and join this engaging conversation that may very well shape the natural legacy of Texas and beyond. Stay connected for more episodes from "90 Miles from Needles" that continue to enlighten and inspire.
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