Episode Summary:

This episode tackles the troubling legacy of Cesar Chavez amidst recent allegations of sexual assault and misconduct, which have shaken the progressive and environmental spheres. Host Chris, who shares a personal history influenced by Chavez, critically examines these revelations, comparing past admiration with the need to hold figures accountable for their actions. The episode also navigates the broader implications on movements Chavez impacted, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging both the achievements and failings of public figures.

In a candid exploration, Chris discusses the complexities surrounding hero worship in social justice movements, particularly when such icons are involved in controversy. With references to other figures such as Ed Abbey and David Brower, the episode unravels the persistent issue of separating an individual's contributions from their personal failings. The episode spotlights how such revelations impact the perception of someone like Chavez, who played a significant role in farm labor rights but whose personal actions warrant serious condemnation. Chris concludes with a call for reflection on leadership dynamics within advocacy movements and how they must evolve to prevent future transgressions.

Key Takeaways:

• The episode explores the lasting impact of recent allegations against Cesar Chavez, which profoundly affect his legacy within activist movements.
• Chris discusses the challenges in separating Chavez's contributions to labor rights from his personal misconduct and abuse.
• Examination of leadership within progressive movements highlights the dangers of a centralized cult of personality.
• The discussion offers insights into how allegations of misconduct by leaders affect the morale and trajectory of advocacy efforts.
• The host emphasizes the need for inclusive and responsible leadership that prioritizes the community's cause over individual recognition.

Notable Quotes:

• "Heroes are really problematic. I keep learning this over and over again."
• "The decline of the UFW is a testament to the failings of leadership that centered ego and image over collective goals."
• "When leaders put their self-interests first, they sabotage the very movements they claim to champion."
• "Ask yourself how much more good Chavez might have been responsible for if he had not been a rapist."

Resources:

• For more on the Cesar Chavez revelations, see This article by David Morales at Three Sonorans.
• Three Sonorans also addresses criticism of Dolores Huerta's role in all this.
• Here's the UFW Foundation's comment on the revelations.
• Need help? Visit IASP for crisis support or call 800-656-HOPE.
• Suggestions from the host include exploring the resources available at RAINN.

Listen to the full episode for a more in-depth discussion on Cesar Chavez's complex legacy and stay tuned for upcoming episodes filled with insightful conversations about environmental justice and activism.

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Urgent: Find your member of Congress and tell them to vote no on the Lee-Malloy resolution

Episode Summary:

In this timely and engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, we look into the ongoing legislative challenges faced by Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. In conversation with Dr. Jackie Grant, Executive Director of Grand Staircase Escalante Partners, the discussion unravels the intricacies of environmental policy, community engagement, and the unforeseen impacts of political maneuvers on public lands. This episode is a must-listen for those passionate about conservation and environmental justice.

The episode sheds light on the latest efforts by Utah politicians, including Senator Mike Lee, to overturn the monument's management plan using the Congressional Review Act. Dr. Grant elaborates on the implications of such actions, emphasizing how it could cause chaos across all public lands with management plans. The discussion also highlights the socioeconomic benefits derived from the monument's existence, opposing the idea that these lands are barren and underutilized. Through a meticulous examination of the issue, the conversation underscores the vital importance of community voices and scientific reasoning in land management decisions.

Key Takeaways:

• Congressional Review Act Impact: The recent moves by Utah legislators pose a threat not only to Grand Staircase Escalante's management plan but also to the concept of public land management nationwide.
• Diverse Stakeholder Engagement: The formation of the monument's current management plan involved extensive input from varied community representatives, highlighting the need for balanced perspectives in environmental policy.
• Economic and Ecological Significance: The Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument supports local economies through tourism and recreation while preserving diverse ecosystems and night skies.
• Urgency of Advocacy: Listeners are encouraged to speak out to their elected representatives to protect public land management plans from being undermined.
• Wider Conservation Context: This episode contextualizes Grand Staircase Escalante as a crucial link in the larger preservation corridor stretching from Moab to Mojave.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument is almost 2 million acres in size… We don't really know how big a monument needs to be to protect 660 species of native bees." – Dr. Jackie Grant
2. "If we err on the side of the bigger is more protective, then we know for sure we have protected those bees." – Dr. Jackie Grant
3. "It seems unlikely, but in this administration, nothing's unlikely anymore." – Dr. Jackie Grant

Resources:

• Grand Staircase Escalante Partners
• Headwaters Economics Report on National Monuments
• Grand Canyon Trust – Information on Grand Staircase Escalante
• BLM Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument Page
• Trinational Sonoran Desert Symposium

Explore the urgent and profound issues featured in this informative episode of 90 Miles from Needles; The Desert Protection Podcast. Stay tuned for more remarkable insights and stories addressing the protection of these precious desert landscapes.

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In this update, Chris discusses an unexpected pause in regular programming due to a recent house fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but smoke has damaged his family's belongings, including his extensive and cherished library collection, which includes numerous rare and out-of-print books. Amid these challenges, Chris previews an upcoming episode featuring Dr. Jackie Grant, Executive Director of the Grand Staircase Escalante Partners, who will discuss efforts to protect the national monument. Tune in next week for insightful discussions on conservation, or support the podcast through their website.

Episode image is a stock photo and does not show Chris' house, thankfully.

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Podcast episode image: ©Jim Boone, BirdAndHike.com

This episode, we welcome back Tim Shields, a dedicated desert tortoise biologist whose half-century-long career has been devoted to unwavering efforts in conservation. As we explore abandoned terrains once frequented by old Hollywood, Tim shares his innovative methods combatting raven predation and invasive plant species threatening tortoise habitats.

In this captivating episode, Tim Shields explores how the invasive grass Schismus has transformed once vibrant, diverse desert landscapes into monotonous expanses, diminishing essential food sources and shelter for the desert tortoise. Chris and Tim engage in a panoramic conversation covering technological advances in ecosystem management, the ecological consequences of invasive species, and the ways technology can help mitigate human impact on wildlife. Through innovative tools and perseverance, Tim aims to hand over a toolkit to future generations for the restoration of these precious ecosystems.

Key Takeaways:

• Raven Management: Tim has pioneered non-lethal methods to deter ravens, such as innovative lasers that make the birds uneasy without physical harm, significantly reducing raven presence in key habitats.
• Invasive Species Impact: Schismus grass represents a major threat to desert ecosystems, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to restore native plant diversity.
• Ecological Vibrancy: Creating a sound-based ecological index could help measure the health and diversity of the desert ecosystems, showing the vibrancy and biodiversity of an environment through acoustics.
• Future of Conservation: Tim emphasizes the importance of preparing future generations with the tools and knowledge to continue ecological restoration and avoid repeating past mistakes.
• Hope Through Innovation: Despite challenges, Tim remains optimistic about technologies and methods paving the way for ecological recovery in the desert.

Notable Quotes:

• "Ravens are good students. We are talking to them in bird."
• "If you have an environment that can support tortoises, it supports the whole crew."
• "The Schismus remains invisible to most; they don't notice it, but we see the ecological damage."
• "It’s about putting our hands on the ecological levers; otherwise, protected lands will become irrelevant."
• "This is a beloved landscape, and it is in dire trouble."

Resources:

• Tim Shields & Ornilogic: Discover more about Tim Shields' ongoing efforts and projects in desert conservation here.
• Chris’ 2015 article on raven deterrence: read it at pbssocal.org
• 90 Miles from Needles Podcast: For more information and additional episodes, visit our website.
• Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Explore extensive bird call collections referenced by Tim in the episode here.

Join us in this insightful conversation to uncover how persistence and innovative thinking can foster change in conservation. Engage with how desert ecosystems can be protected and invite yourself to imagine sustainable futures for these wild terrains. Don’t miss tuning into the full episode for an enriching experience, and stay connected for more compelling discussions on the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke discusses the pressing environmental issues faced by the American Southwest with guest Zak Podmore. The discussion centers around the potential for San Juan County, Utah, to become a storage site for nuclear waste. The conversation explores the environmental and social justice implications of such initiatives, pointing out the burden placed on historically underserved communities that have already borne a disproportionate share of impacts from the nuclear industry.

The episode also explores the possibilities for the future of the Colorado River and the diminishing Lake Powell. Zak Podmore provides insights into what lower reservoir levels mean for the region's ecosystems and water management strategies. Encouraging discussions about restoring Glen Canyon and possibly decommissioning Glen Canyon Dam, the conversation transcends mere environmental discourse, hinting at a broader narrative of resilience and adaptation.

Key Takeaways:

• Nuclear Waste Storage Concerns: The proposal to store nuclear waste in Southeast Utah raises significant environmental and social justice issues.
• Glen Canyon Restoration: Lower water levels in Lake Powell reveal the adaptive potential of natural ecosystems, opening doors for restoration opportunities like decommissioning the Glen Canyon Dam.
• Climate Change Impacts: The episode reflects the looming threat of climate change-induced drought in the Colorado River Basin and its implications for water management in the Southwest.
• Community Resistance: Zak Podmore emphasizes the importance of community awareness and resistance against potentially harmful environmental policies.
• Historic Environmental Advocacy: Insights into past environmental battles, including the roles of figures like David Brower, remind listeners of the enduring fight for ecological preservation.

Notable Quotes:

1. "These meetings were held, the nonprofits involved said they were just listening sessions. They said, we're not trying to actually bring radioactive waste to your area. We're just here to listen and provide information." — Zak Podmore
2. "I don't think that's a very valid argument. But even if you really believe that, they still leave out the impacts from all the rest of the nuclear fuel cycle." — Zak Podmore
3. "The ecosystems are incredibly resilient and they're recovering faster than anyone expected." — Zak Podmore
4. "It's a dire situation for 40 million people who get water from the Colorado River throughout the Southwest." — Zak Podmore
5. "If you give Glen Canyon, this famous place that was lost to the Glen Canyon Dam in the 1960s, a chance to recover, it will come back." — Zak Podmore

Resources:

• Zak Podmore's Website
• Zak’s Substack
• "Life After Deadpool: Lake Powell’s Last Days and the Rebirth of the Colorado River"

Listen to the full episode to engage deeply with these issues and explore further enlightening insights from "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." Stay tuned for more episodes that continue to unveil the stories and voices of the desert.

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In this enlightening episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke takes listeners to the heart of the desert Southwest for a special commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Timbisha Shoshone Homeland Act. The episode celebrates the journey of the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe in reclaiming their ancestral lands in Death Valley National Park. Tribe members, including Jimmy John Thompson, Mandy Campbell, and George Gholson share their stories and highlight ongoing collaborations with the National Park Service.

Rich in history and advocacy, this episode explores both the triumphs and challenges faced by the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe in the years since the landmark legislation was enacted. Jimmy John Thompson and Mandy Campbell express their frustrations over recent censorship concerning the tribe's narrative in the park's visitor center materials. The episode conveys the tribe's resilience and determination to protect and celebrate their culture while addressing contemporary environmental and social challenges. The discussion doesn't shy away from revealing the systemic issues still at play, urging listeners to reflect on the broader implications on cultural preservation and environmental justice.

Key Takeaways:

• The Timbisha Shoshone Homeland Act was a significant event for the Tribe, granting them 7,800 acres of ancestral land within Death Valley National Park, a singular achievement for a Native American tribe.

• The collaboration between the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe and the National Park Service highlights a critical step in building partnerships for the preservation and recognition of indigenous lands and culture.

• Current tribal council members, including Jimmy John Thompson, stress the ongoing need to address issues like censorship and the importance of reflecting true tribal narratives in public spaces.

• The Timbisha Shoshone people continue to fight for their rights and cultural survival, underscoring the importance of indigenous advocacy and environmental justice in modern society.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I see partners, I see friends, I see family. These relationships would not work if we do not respect each other and trust each other." – Jimmy John Thompson

2. "We're here to honor those that came before us who got this accomplished." – Jimmy John Thompson

3. "We were pushed from land to land around here, from home to home. It kind of felt like when I figured it out, it felt like we were nobody then, but now we are somebody, and we are still here." – Mandy Campbell

4. "Imagine for a second, if you did not know if your home was going to be there when you went home." – George Gholson

Resources:

• Timbisha Shoshone Tribe Website: timbisha.com

• Desert Advocacy Media Network: Desert Advocacy Media Network

• Raising funds for Desert Journalism Fellowship:

  • Website: 90milesfromneedles.com/fellowship

The compelling narratives and insights from this episode provide a deep understanding of the Timbasha Shoshone Tribe's heritage, challenges, and collaborations. Tune into the full episode for more profound stories and stay connected with "90 Miles from Need

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In this enlightening episode of 90 Miles from Needles, host Chris Clarke explores the intricate world of bees with Mary O' Brien from Project 1100. The conversation delves into the potentially deleterious effects of honeybee apiaries on public lands, a topic that's both counterintuitive and crucial for the public to understand. Honeybees, although often seen as critical to agriculture and ecosystems, can pose significant threats to native solitary bees that have co-evolved with local flowering plants.

Mary O' Brien sheds light on how these industrious honeybees outcompete their native cousins, impacting pollination dynamics that are vital for the desert's diverse flora. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of preserving native bee species, the complexities of their ecological roles, and the nuanced implications of honeybee proliferation. O'Brien also shares practical strategies for those interested in conservation, emphasizing the importance of habitat protection and mindful consumerism when it comes to honey and pollinator support.

Key Takeaways:

• Honeybees, although widely supported and utilized in agriculture, can have adverse effects on native bee populations, outcompeting them for resources and spreading diseases.

• The high reproductive rate of honeybees poses a threat to native plants relying on solitary native bees for pollination, potentially destabilizing ecosystems.

• Public lands serve as critical refuges for native bee species, which are often overlooked in conventional conservation discussions.

• Consumers can contribute to bee conservation efforts by choosing their honey responsibly and fostering habitats for native pollinators.

• Regulatory frameworks around public land usage play a significant role in the sustainability of native bee populations, calling for increased transparency and stakeholder engagement.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Trying to save bees by saving the honeybee is like trying to save birds by saving the chicken."

2. "Native bees evolved in tandem with flowers, and honeybees are not very good pollinators of many species of plants."

3. "Once you know native solitary bees are in your world, you really can delight in seeing such diversity."

4. "Public lands are the wildflower repositories for the Western U.S.; especially in the desert."

5. "It's often quite attractive to think that you're buying wildflower honey; however, you're almost certainly buying honey that was produced on public land."

Resources:

• Project 1100 Website

• Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation

• The Forgotten Pollinators by Stephen Buchmann and Gary Nabhan

• Common Bees of Western North America laminated guide

• Center for Biological Diversity resources on pollinators:

  • Bees

  • Pollinators

  • Pollinators in Peril report

Discover the intricate dynamics between honeybees and native pollinators and why preserving the biodiversity of our desert ecosystems is more crucial than ever. Listen to the full episode to deepen your understanding of this vital subject and stay tuned to 90 Miles from Needles for more insightful discussions on desert conservation.

Podcast episode artwork: Mojave poppy bee (Perdita meconis). Photo courtesy Zach Portman / University of Minnesota Department of Entomology via the Nevada Independent.

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In this episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris Clarke engages in a thought-provoking discussion with guest Rick LoBello about ambitious conservation strategies along the U.S.-Mexico border. Rick shares insights into his life-long campaign to establish a transboundary protected area encompassing Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and several protected regions in Mexico. Despite the current political climate, Rick’s vision emphasizes the possibility of international cooperation in conservation efforts as a means to foster better cross-border relationships and protect vital ecosystems.

Throughout the episode, the conversation traverses a wide range of fascinating topics such as the historical context of the international park proposal and natural wonders of the Big Bend region. The dialogue also highlights the challenges and opportunities in bridging conservation efforts across borders, particularly considering the complex socio-political dynamics. Rick stresses the importance of collaborative frameworks, engaging with local communities, and leveraging relationships to advance conservation initiatives. He draws on past examples of successful cross-border collaborations and provides a roadmap for future actions.

Key Takeaways:

• Transboundary Conservation Vision: Rick LoBello shares his initiative to promote a transboundary protected area involving U.S. and Mexican protected lands, aiming for improved environmental preservation and cultural cooperation.

• The Role of Local Communities: Local Mexican communities like those in Boquillas del Carmen play a crucial role in conservation efforts, showcasing the importance of community engagement in international environmental initiatives.

• Unique Biodiversity: The Big Bend region boasts a rich diversity of wildlife which includes black bears, desert bighorn sheep, and a wide range of plant life, underscoring its value as a conservation priority.

• Successful Cross-Border Collaboration: Historical precedents suggest that meaningful, structured collaboration between countries can address mutual conservation challenges effectively, despite political headwinds.

• Educational Outreach: Rick’s efforts to increase awareness of Chihuahuan Desert biodiversity through initiatives like the El Paso Wildlife Conservation Society and educational events highlight the critical need for public knowledge in conservation success.

Notable Quotes:

• "I've made it a mission in my life to do all I can to help make [a transboundary protected area] a reality."

• "People need to know each other and people need to trust each other if we're going to make progress."

• "The black bear told us that the environment can heal, and there's hope for other species too."

• "My main concern when it comes to development is that it be done in a way that's ecologically sensitive."

• "If they know it and they love it, then they're going to want to protect it."

Resources:

• Chihuahuan Desert Education Coalition

• El Paso Wildlife Conservation Society

• Chihuahuan Desert Conference: Visit Chihuahua Desert Conference for details on upcoming events.

Listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode to explore more about Rick LoBello's inspiring proposals for cross-border conservation, and to stay updated with upcoming episodes of "90 Miles from Needles" for more engaging cont

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