Author and outdoors enthusiast McKenzie Long joins Aaron and Kate to chat about her new book, This Contested Land: The Storied Past and Uncertain Future of America’s National Monuments. The book is an exploration of national monuments—why they matter, what it takes to create them, and how they impact nearby communities. McKenzie visited 13 national monuments across the country for the book, interviewing locals in some, while setting out on solo adventures in others.

Kate and Aaron also discuss the designation of Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument, and Aaron shares some reflections on his experience attending the signing ceremony for President Biden’s first national monument.

• President Joe Biden declares Camp Hale a national monument — Colorado Public Radio
• Winning the West: Escape (extended version) — Center for Western Priorities
• Garamendi, Padilla call upon president to expand Berryessa Snow Mountain monument —The Vacaville Reporter
• Purchase This Contested Land — University of Minnesota Press

Hosts: Kate Groetzinger & Aaron Weiss

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Music: Purple Planet

Featured image: Courtesy of Aaron Weiss

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