This episode takes us to White Sands National Park in Southern New Mexico, home to the world’s largest gypsum dune field. The brilliant white sands form a stunning landscape shaped by both nature and history, offering a glimpse into the unique ecosystems and cultural heritage of the border region. White Sands, once a National Monument, became a National Park in 2019, marking an exciting chapter in its long history.

We’re joined by Marie Frias Sauter, the park’s superintendent since 2012. Marie’s journey is as dynamic as the dunes she oversees. Growing up as a dual citizen in Mexico City, her early fascination with geography and cartography led her to study at the University of Georgia, where she witnessed the transformation of traditional map-making into modern GIS technology. Over her career, Marie has lent her expertise to parks across the country, bringing her passion for preservation and innovation to every role.

In this episode, Marie shares her insights on managing a park with deep ties to both the Department of Defense and its sister park in Mexico, the evolving science of the gypsum dunes, and the park’s soon addition—the Ice Age Trail. She also discusses the discovery of ancient trackways, the thrill of hiking and sledding down the dunes, and the challenges of climate change, including the potential loss of wet dune systems as water tables decline.

Join us as we explore Marie’s extraordinary career, the vibrant culture of the borderlands, and the unique wonders of White Sands National Park.

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Who Runs This Park is produced by Maddie Pellman with music by Danielle Bees.