Episode Summary: In this episode of 90 Miles from Needles, host Chris Clarke looks into the intricate issues surrounding Bears Ears National Monument with guest Davina Smith, a Diné activist and Co-Chair of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition. The episode's introduction grapples with the political turmoil surrounding federal land designations and their impact on indigenous rights and environmental conservation. Clarke and Smith navigate through the consequences of political maneuvers by successive U.S. administrations, especially concerning the Bears Ears National Monument's existence and preservation. Throughout the episode, Smith discusses the historical and cultural significance of Bears Ears for the Dine people and other Native American tribes, underscoring its critical importance beyond mere land but as a living museum and spiritual sanctuary. Smith passionately depicts current threats from mining interests and unauthorized land use and calls for more robust public understanding and participation in protecting these sacred lands. As listeners are taken through Smith's perspective as an advocate and a former state political candidate, they are encouraged to engage actively in desert protection initiatives.

Key Takeaways:

Historical Significance of Bears Ears:
Bears Ears is regarded by the Diné as a sacred cultural landscape with deep historical ties dating back to their ancestors, serving as a refuge and resource area.

Current Threats to Bears Ears:
The ongoing risk from mining activities and political opposition threatens the preservation efforts, reflecting past attempts to reduce and undermine land protections.

Advocacy and Public Education: 
Emphasizing the importance of educating oneself about Bears Ears and its management plan as a means to participate proactively in conservation efforts.

Political Dynamics:
The Trump administration’s rollback of national monument protections is a recurring theme, revealing the broader political attacks on federal lands.

Community Collaboration:
Exploring avenues for economic growth respecting cultural lands, including tourism as a potential path, highlighting the complexity of local collaboration efforts.

Notable Quotes:
"It's about educating yourself, hearing from those that have worked in this work of protecting Bears Ears." 
"Bears Ears is a living environment, and that's why I go there…it's still communicating with Mother Earth."
"I'm here to be a part of that voice because I was shared from my mother, my grandmother, and the grandmothers before them." 
"Educating people in these areas of Bears Ears…it's about educating these areas, but educating yourself as an individual." 

Resources: Bears Ears Intertribal Coalition: To explore the coalition's work and understand the management plans. https://www.bearsearscoalition.org/
Katherine Smith on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katherine_Smith_(Navajo_activist)
Chris article on the Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute: https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/magazine/entry/clear_skies_in_the_desert

To truly grasp the depth of these issues and support meaningful action, listen to the full episode. Stay up-to-date with 90 Miles from Needles for further insights into the ongoing challenges faced by desert ecosystems and indigenous communities.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris discusses the intersection of environmental activism and political challenges with activist and investigative journalist David Helvarg. The discussion revisits Helvarg's prescient 1994 book, "The War Against the Greens," exploring the evolution of anti-environmental movements from the Wise Use agenda to current political dynamics. They examine threats to democracy, public lands, and global environmental activism amid escalating misinformation and violence. Listeners are given a break mid-episode with serene sounds recorded in Grapevine Canyon, Nevada.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About the Host:

Chris Clarke is the host of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." With an extensive background in environmental journalism, Clarke has covered renewable energy developments in California's deserts for KCET, a public television station in Los Angeles. His work is driven by a passionate commitment to environmental conservation and protection, bringing to light the complexities and challenges of implementing renewable energy projects in sensitive desert habitats. Clarke's expertise and dedication continue to inform and inspire as he navigates the intricacies of desert ecosystems and environmental policies.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke offers a critical analysis of "Abundance," the new book by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson. The episode unpacks the book's treatment of environmental regulations and sustainable development, particularly questioning the authors' thesis of liberal states allegedly hindering renewable projects due to stringent regulations. Clarke, drawing on his years of experience as a renewable energy reporter, counters this narrative with on-ground insights, advocating for the significance of environmental laws. Clarke critiques Klein and Thompson's perspective that liberal regulations are obstacles to progress, especially in solar energy projects. With examples from California's renewable energy history, he underscores how the actual challenges often stem from corporate dynamics rather than regulatory frameworks. Clarke highlights the pitfalls of Klein and Thompson's book, arguing that it oversimplifies complex issues by selectively presenting data, ultimately asserting the need for a grounded understanding of environmental policies. 

Key Takeaways:

Environmental Regulations' Role:
Clarke challenges the notion that environmental regulations, like CEQA, are the main barriers to renewable energy progress, presenting evidence from California's solar energy projects.

Corporate Influence:
The episode points out the critical role of corporate influence, particularly from utility companies, in shaping the renewable energy landscape, rather than blaming public regulations.

Complexity in Policy Discussions:
Emphasizes the need for detailed and nuanced discussions about housing and energy development, contrasting with the book's broad brush critiques.

Grounded Evidence: 
Advocates for the significance of ground truthing and environmental laws in preventing unforeseen project impacts, contrary to the book's implications.

Desert Habitat Challenges: 
Explores the environmental and cultural challenges of renewable projects in the California desert, highlighting systemic issues outside mere regulatory concerns.

Notable Quotes:

"In Klein and Thompson's telling of how liberal regulation is getting in the way of renewable energy development, the actual history of renewable energy development in the desert never showed up."

"The function of these laws is to ground truth projects, to reduce the number of unanticipated consequences."

"[Rooftop solar in California] is having some issues because the utilities don't like it."

"This book is a testament to the power of selective cherry picking of data in order to bolster an ideological argument."

"Abundance is essentially a polemic, an extended OP-ed, and in this climate, it's just not helpful."

Resources:

90 Miles from Needles Website: http://90milesfromneedles.com

California Distributed Generation Stats: https://www.californiadgstats.ca.gov/

"Rooftop Solar Reduces Costs for All Ratepayers" report by the California Solar and Storage Association: https://mcubedecon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/calssa_rooftop-solar-reduces-costs-for-all-ratepayers-2025.pdf

Mehdi Hasan and Derek Thompson discussing "Abundance": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTC5jKpYYNU

Zeteo (Mehdi Hasan's new news network): https://zeteo.com/

Rose Foundation report on CEQA and housing: https://rosefdn.org/wp-content/uploads/CEQA-California_s-Living-Environmental-Law-10-25-21.pdf

CEQA and Housing Production: https://www.califaep.org/docs/CEQA_and_Housing_Report_1-30-19.pdf

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary: Join host Chris Clarke in this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles" as he delves into the crucial humanitarian efforts of Laurie Cantillo and Humane Borders. As the border challenges unfold, Laurie discusses her organization's mission to provide life-saving water stations in the desert for migrants facing extreme peril during their journey to the United States. This episode sheds light on the often-misunderstood realities of border crossings and the humanitarian responses necessary to combat these challenges. Through vibrant storytelling, Laurie Cantillo and Chris Clarke engage in a candid discussion about the evolving landscape of the U.S.-Mexico border, addressing widespread misconceptions and the dire need for compassion and accurate representation of migrants. The conversation highlights the devastating impact of border policies and the unyielding resolve of those risking their lives for a chance at a better future. With insights into borderland human rights, as well as environmental concerns caused by border militarization, this episode offers an in-depth exploration of the human and ecological costs associated with the border crisis.

Key Takeaways:

• Humane Borders provides life-saving water stations across the Sonoran Desert to support migrants, hikers, and even wildlife, confronting the severe drought conditions and inhumane border policies. 
• Contrary to this administration's narrative, migrants crossing the desert to seek asylum are not an "invasion," but rather families and individuals fleeing violence and economic instability. 
• The concept of "prevention through deterrence" initiated by the U.S. government did not deter crossings but instead caused thousands of migrant deaths since its implementation. 
• Laurie emphasizes the stark reality that many Americans are misinformed about migrant communities, which are less prone to crime and more likely to contribute positively to society. 
• Initiatives like Humane Borders represent nonpartisan, humanitarian efforts focused on human dignity and environmental responsibility amidst geopolitical complexities at the border. 

Notable Quotes:

“We're all human. We all need water.” - Laurie Cantillo

“The government knew at the time that people would die, but did not expect it to occur at the scale that's happening.” - Laurie Cantillo

“I would much rather have as my neighbor someone who would cross the desert to become a U.S. citizen than someone who just wants to slam the door shut on people in need.” - Laurie Cantillo 

“The only fear I ever have at the border is from far right militia and vigilante groups.” - Laurie Cantillo

“The wall will fall down of its own accord. Probably before I do.” - Chris Clarke

Resources:

Humane Borders Website: humaneborders.org
Humane Borders' mortality map: https://humaneborders.info/app/map.asp

Border Angels: Organization mentioned that helps families find missing loved ones. Website: https://www.borderangels.org/

Comparing crime rates between undocumented immigrants, legal immigrants, and native-born US citizens in Texas; Light et al, PNAS.org, https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2014704117

Dive deeper into this episode to discover the revealing insights Laurie Cantillo shares about border issues, humanitarian crisis, and the heightened militarization impacting both human lives and biodiversity at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke sits down with Teal Lehto, a passionate water rights activist also known on social media as Western Water Girl. Teal shares insights into her work on public lands protection, the challenges posed by current legislative threats to environment-focused organizations, and the critical issues facing the Colorado River Basin. The episode delves deep into the complexities of water politics across Southwestern U.S. deserts. Teal discusses the antiquated water usage system governed by the doctrine of prior appropriation and its impact on current water scarcities. The conversation explores the political stand-off between upper and lower basin states within the Colorado River framework, highlighting the contentious role agriculture, particularly alfalfa farming, plays in the ongoing water crisis. Reflecting on her journey from frustrated activist to social media influencer, Teal elucidates how she has become a vital communicator of water issues, navigating both support and the vitriol commonly aimed at women in digital spaces.

Key Takeaways:

Advocacy Amidst Executive Orders: Teal explores current executive orders threatening public lands and non-profit environmental groups, emphasizing their purpose to dismantle the protections that keep these landscapes safe.

Colorado River Basin Stalemate: The historical water distribution system faces scrutiny as upper and lower basin states stall on new guidelines essential for preserving water resources.

Social Media as a Platform for Change: Teal's rise as Western Water Girl began as a reaction to being sidelined; now she uses Instagram and TikTok to educate thousands on water issues.

Prominent Issues in Water Management: The widespread impact of alfalfa farming on water resources underlines a significant yet under-addressed element of Western water politics.

The Influence of Engaging Narratives: Authentic content creation on TikTok significantly impacts environmental communication, allowing Western Water Girl to reach and inspire a broad audience.

Notable Quotes: 

"I never started my platform expecting it to blow up. Like, I literally told my partner that if five people see my video, it'll make me feel better." - Teal Lehto

"You can actually have a pretty direct impact on what side of the Internet somebody's content goes to just by leaving a comment." - Teal Lehto

"People are really into engaging with water equity because it's so mind-blowing to learn the Navajo Nation only has running water in one out of each three homes." - Teal Lehto

Resources:

Teal Lehto on Social Media: Follow @westernwatergirl on TikTok and Instagram for updates and education on water politics.

90 Miles from Needles Podcast Website: For more episodes and donation opportunities, visit 90MilesFromNeedles.com (https://90milesfromneedles.com).

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke is joined by author Barret Baumgart. The conversation centers around Baumgart's book "Yuck," which explores the peculiar and iconic Joshua Tree. From its historical misunderstandings and numerous failed attempts to capitalize on the plant, to its symbolic resistance against commodification, the chat offers a fresh perspective on the interaction between humans and this resilient desert species. The episode also leaps into broader themes of environmental justice and political critique, with Chris Clarke expressing strong views on contemporary socio-political issues affecting the natural world. The juxtaposition of Baumgart's insights into the Joshua Tree's defiance against use and Clarke's vehement declaration against destructive political practices not only enriches listeners' understanding of desert ecology but also encourages active engagement in environmental advocacy. 

Key Takeaways:

Nature's Resistance: The Joshua Tree has repeatedly thwarted attempts to be commercially exploited, symbolizing nature's stubbornness. 

Historical Perspectives: Early explorers and settlers often misunderstood and disparaged the Joshua Tree, seeing it as unattractive and offensive.

Environmental and Political Rants: Host Chris Clarke passionately criticizes the contemporary political landscape, likening destructive policies of the Trump administration to historical atrocities.

Genre Blending in Writing: Baumgart discusses his unique approach to blending fact with narrative creativity, challenging traditional environmental writing norms. Call for Activism: The episode strongly encourages activism, urging listeners to oppose the US's current authoritarian regime due to its flgrant disregard for environmental and human rights.

Notable Quotes:
"There's something really deep and beautiful in that, without getting too reverent." "I have avoided traps I don't want to fall into."
"Being this infuriated for this long gets exhausting."
"History isn't written by people who gave up; it's written by people who stayed angry, stayed stubborn."
"I think it is immoral to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement."

Resources:

Barrett Baumgart's personal website: barrettbaumgart.com

Information about his book, "Yuck: The Birth and Death of the Weird and Wondrous Joshua Tree," can be found by visiting 90 Miles from Needles' dedicated page: 90milesfromneedles.com/yuck

Listeners are encouraged to explore these resources further and join the ongoing conversation about desert protection and preservation. Tune in to the full episode for more insights and stories, and stay informed with future releases from the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast for more thought-provoking and inspiring content.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About the Host: Chris Clarke is an environmental advocate and the knowledgeable host of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast. He is committed to desert protection and conservation, bringing decades of experience and insights into environmental issues, policy discussions, and activism. Known for drawing attention to critical environmental concerns, including endangered species and responsible land use, Chris actively engages with audiences who care deeply about ecological preservation and advocacy.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris Clarke examines the much-talked-about claim of dire wolf de-extinction by a biotech firm. Chris navigates through the intricacies of this scientific breakthrough, unearthing the partial truths and sensationalism, while keeping a focus on broader environmental implications. Throughout the episode, Chris challenges the notion of de-extinct species fitting seamlessly into today's ecosystems. Drawing parallels between the dire wolves and other potential candidates for de-extinction, like the Shasta ground sloth, he discusses the feasibility and ethical considerations of such scientific pursuits. The conversation isn't just about biology; it encompasses the cultural and ecological dynamics that ground these animals in past and present narratives. Tying together scientific discourse and environmental activism, Chris highlights why preserving current ecosystems is critical for any species reintroduction success.

Key Takeaways:

The idea of de-extincting dire wolves is riddled with complexities, from scientific limitations to ecological impacts. Dire wolves possibly have physical adaptations ill-suited to surviving in today’s drastically altered ecosystems, calling into question their viability if brought back. De-extinction efforts are providing the antienvironmentalists in power with arguments to rescind environmental protection laws. The example of California condors serves as a reminder of the financial and ecological challenges faced in conservation and species restoration efforts. Chris advocates for a holistic approach to conservation that considers ecosystems' dynamic nature and the cultural knowledge animals pass down through generations.

Notable Quotes:

"Even if we grant Colossal Biosciences claims… the dire wolf is useless without its habitat."

"The ecosystem that held the species and the relationships changes… they become, to some extent, new ecosystems."

"What's the difference between that and releasing an invasive species into a habitat that doesn't have a niche for it?"

"As long as they're in Botanic gardens, we don't have to worry, right? But it's the relationships that are important here."

"If the process of theoretical de extinction is going to be used as an excuse to get our basic environmental laws…"

Resources:

Learn more about the podcast and support 90 Miles from Needles: https:/90milesfromneedles.com

Hank Green's response: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar0zgedLyTw

Hank offers a correction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jGFT2rnL8Y

Ventana Wildlife Society Condor Status pge: https://www.ventanaws.org/status.html

The Bernie & AOC event in Los Angeles (All 5.5 hours!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU_GhbFH2Gw&t=11697s

Listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of the topic discussed and stay tuned for more insightful discussions from "90 Miles from Needles." This episode serves as both an enlightening exploration of modern conservation challenges and a call to action for listeners invested in ecological preservation.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About the Guest: 

Josh Jackson is a passionate author and explorer of public lands, focusing specifically on the often-overlooked Bureau of Land Management (BLM) territories in California. He is the mastermind behind the "Forgotten Lands Project," where he explores and highlights the beauty and significance of BLM lands throughout the West. His forthcoming book, "The Enduring: A Journey into California's Public Lands," scheduled for release later this year, captures his extensive experiences and insights from visiting these lands. Jackson is committed to raising awareness and fostering appreciation for America's public lands, hoping to inspire conservation efforts.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of 90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast, host Chris Clarke engages in a compelling conversation with author Josh Jackson about the significance of BLM lands in California. Josh shares his journey from discovering BLM lands to exploring them extensively and writing a book about his experiences. His book, "The Enduring: A Journey into California's Public Lands," aims to shed light on the underappreciated beauty and value of these lands, advocating for their protection against growing threats. This episode explores deeper themes of environmental conservation, management challenges, and the intersection of recreation and preservation on public lands. The discussion also dives into the current crises facing BLM lands under the current trying political climate, including government slashing agency budgets and staff. Josh offers his perspective on the importance of public engagement in land conservation, drawing parallels between treasured national parks and less-known but equally significant landscapes managed by the BLM. The conversation underscores the valuable connection between experiencing these lands and the motivation to protect them, highlighting Jackson’s aspiration to fuel public awareness and political action.

Key Takeaways:
BLM Land Discovery & Exploration: Josh Jackson discusses his initiation into exploring BLM lands in California and how those experiences fueled his book, "The Enduring."
Environmental and Political Challenges: The episode highlights the severe staffing and funding cuts faced by the BLM, threatening the conservation and management of public lands. Importance of Public Engagement: The conversation emphasizes the necessity of the public connecting with BLM lands to inspire conservation efforts.
California’s BLM Land Significance: Despite California's better balance in BLM land use, threats like mining persist, calling for heightened awareness and action.
Future Projects: Josh hints at potential explorations and writings about BLM lands in Utah, indicating continuous efforts in advocating for these regions.
Notable Quotes: "In the end, we will conserve only what we love." - Baba Dioum
"The anonymity that once protected these landscapes now works against them." - Josh Jackson
"It's a delicate balance between recreation and conservation." - Josh Jackson
"The desert invited me to leave behind my notions about what I might find or experience, or even how I might feel." - Josh Jackson

Resources:
Forgotten Lands Project: https://www.forgottenlandsproject.com
Pre-order Josh Jackson's book: https://90milesfromneedles.com/books
Past podcast episode with Kristen Brengel discussing Park Service layoffs: https://90milesfromneedles.com/s4e5
Find a Bernie Sanders event near you: https://berniesanders.com/oligarchy/
Find an April 19 event: https://www.fiftyfifty.one/events
This rich episode provides an insightful look into the complex world of BLM lands, urging listeners to appreciate and protect these often-overlooked areas.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke looks into three astonishing science facts about deserts that challenge traditional views of these arid landscapes. From the surprising biological interactions involving desert tortoises and ticks to the hidden carbon-sequestering prowess of desert soils, the episode showcases desert ecosystems, their intricate balance, and the sometimes unexpected roles they play. This episode provides a fresh perspective on how deserts contribute to global environmental stability and why they merit protection.

The first segment of the episode highlights the intriguing relationship between desert tortoises and ticks, specifically the role tortoises play in reducing the prevalence of tick-borne diseases like tick-borne relapsing fever. Clarke discusses research by Dr. Molly June Bechtel, which reveals that desert tortoises possess a blood factor that reduces harmful Borrelia bacteria, thereby offering insights into the greater ecological importance of these critically endangered reptiles.

In another surprising desert fact, Clarke explores the soil carbon sequestration abilities of arid ecosystems. Despite popular misconceptions, deserts store immense amounts of carbon, thanks to unique geological and biological processes such as calcium carbonate formation and glomalin production by mycorrhizal fungi. These findings emphasize the critical environmental role deserts play and their potential impact on mitigating climate change.

The episode concludes with a fascinating examination of desert pavement, a geological phenomenon that stabilizes loose sediment and contributes to air quality by preventing dust pollution. Clarke describes how desert pavement forms over time and its ecological benefits, like housing viable wildflower seed banks. This episode not only captivates with revelations about the intricate mechanisms at play in desert environments but also reinforces the necessity of preserving these ecosystems for their environmental and health benefits.

Key Takeaways

Desert tortoises host ticks, which have a low incidence of Borrelia due to a bactericidal factor in tortoise blood, aiding in controlling tick-borne diseases.

America's deserts act as significant carbon sinks, sequestering over 55 million tons of carbon annually through soil processes like glomalin production and caliche formation.

Desert pavements, formed over time through wind and water interactions, play vital roles in air quality and soil stability.

Protecting desert ecosystems is crucial, not only for conserving biodiversity but also for their role in reducing climate change impacts and preventing the spread of diseases.

The podcast emphasizes the various misunderstood yet essential ecological functions of deserts, advocating for their conservation.

Notable Quotes

"One desert tortoise has done more for human public health than an entire RFK junior."

"We may actually be making climate change worse in the long term by destroying the desert to put in solar power."

"A feature of the landscape that's about as innocuous as you can imagine turns out to clean our air of asthma-inducing dust." 

"If we're going to get through this really ugly period, it's going to have to be about the love."

Resources

Desert Protection Podcast Website: https://90milesfromneedles.com

Research by Molly June Bechtel, PhD: https://www.90milesfromneedles.com/downloads/bechtel_ticks/

Andrew Alden's blog post on desert pavement at the Cima Volcanic Field: https://www.thoughtco.com/theories-of-desert-pavement-1441193

More on glomalin from the Summertree Institute: https://summertree.org/the-desert-underground/

Desert Advocacy Media Network: https://thedamn.org

To uncover more revealing insights into the remarkable intricacy of desert ecosystems, listen to the full episode.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Clarke explores the intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with desert protection, highlighting how Trump's attacks on DEI harm not just people but also the ecosystems and communities inhabiting deserts. He delves into historical and contemporary issues, from indigenous genocide to border wall impacts, underscoring the importance of inclusive environmental advocacy. Clarke also reflects on the diversity challenges within his podcast team, urging for broader representation. Join him for insights on DEI's crucial role in fostering social justice and environmental resilience in desert landscapes. No guests featured this episode.

Resources:

90 Miles from Needles Website: https://90milesfromneedles.com

Southwest Organizing Project 1990 Big Green letter: https://www.90milesfromneedles.com/downloads/swop/

Explore the full episode to better understand of how diversity and inclusion intertwine with the fight to protect our deserts.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.