The writer Edward Abbey is revered by many desert activists, and roundly criticized by others, all based on the provocative and occasionally offensive things he wrote. Chris and Alicia talk about the prescient and helpful things Abbey wrote, and about the things they wish that neither Abbey nor anyone else had ever said, some of which have gained currency among the most violent practitioners of rightwing politics.

The writer Edward Abbey is revered by many desert activists, and roundly criticized by others, all based on the provocative and occasionally offensive things he wrote. Chris and Alicia talk about the prescient and helpful things Abbey wrote, and about the things they wish that neither Abbey nor anyone else had ever said, some of which have gained currency among the most violent practitioners of rightwing politics.

Join Chris Clarke and a variety of guests as they explore the challenges and opportunities of the American Southwest's fragile ecosystems. Engaging interviews with experts, activists, and advocates on conservation, land management, and environmental justice. Science and sentiment, politics and philosophy, hiking and history, culture and creativity all go into defending the desert. Be forewarned: We are out to recruit you to the cause.

Join Chris Clarke and a variety of guests as they explore the challenges and opportunities of the American Southwest's fragile ecosystems. Engaging interviews with experts, activists, and advocates on conservation, land management, and environmental justice. Science and sentiment, politics and philosophy, hiking and history, culture and creativity all go into defending the desert. Be forewarned: We are out to recruit you to the cause.

Vital info on protecting our irrepaceable deserts

90 Miles from Needles: the Desert Protection Podcast

Join host Chris Clarke and guests as they explore the challenges and opportunities of the American Southwest's fragile ecosystems. Engaging interviews with experts, activists, and advocates on conservation, land management, and environmental justice.

Join host Chris Clarke and guests as they explore the challenges and opportunities of the American Southwest's fragile ecosystems. Engaging interviews with experts, activists, and advocates on conservation, land management, and environmental justice.

A look at Ed Abbey's legacy, the good and the bad

S1E11: Deconstructing Ed Abbey

In this episode, host Chris Clarke engages in an enlightening conversation with Laiken Jordahl from the Center for Biological Diversity. Focusing on the contentious issue of border wall construction, Jordahl sheds light on the potential threats posed by the Department of Homeland Security's proposed developments near Big Bend National Park in Texas. This discussion is not just a critique of environmental degradation but also highlights the unique coalition of local residents opposing these plans, emphasizing the union of diverse communities in protecting the Rio Grande's ecological integrity.

Jordahl articulates the environmental and social impact of the wall, touching on topics like endangered species, cultural connections, and community resilience. With references to biodiversity in the region, the conversation also delves into the critical role local communities play in safeguarding public lands. From agave blooms to wildlife threats and the interruption of the natural landscape, the dialogue underscores an urgent call to action. Through poignant anecdotes and insightful commentary, this episode captures the essence of grassroots activism and cross-border unity in the face of federal infrastructure challenges.

Note for AI skeptics: the episode artwork was created with Photoshop and a human brain.

Key Takeaways:
Local communities in Big Bend are uniting against proposed border wall construction, citing environmental, cultural, and economic concerns.
The coalition opposing the wall includes diverse stakeholders, from conservative ranchers to progressive environmentalists, all valuing the region's unique ecological and cultural landscape.
Proposed border wall construction risks significant ecological damage, including threats to endangered species and water access within the Rio Grande.
The episode explores the cross-border cultural and environmental exchanges that define the Big Bend region’s identity, threatened by potential development.
Activist efforts and community resilience offer a hopeful prospect for halting destructive infrastructure projects along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Notable Quotes:
"They don't want to see their mountains dynamited and their native plants bulldozed and destroyed." - Laiken Jordahl
"All of the local sheriffs, including a number of very conservative Republicans who run and campaign on border security issues, oppose this wall." - Laiken Jordahl
"The Rio Grande, it's really a river in recovery. And we have an opportunity to restore this river and allow for the recovery of so many native species." - Laiken Jordahl
"Once you see the grandeur, the remoteness, the rugged beauty of this region, there's no way you're not going to fight like hell to protect it." - Laiken Jordahl
"These are not professional organizers. These are not paid NGO actors. These are people fighting for their livelihoods." - Laiken Jordahl

Resources:
No Big Bend Wall on Instagram
Follow Laiken Jordahl on social media for updates on border issues: Twitter, Instagram.
Center For Biological Doiversity press release: Congress Urged to Block Border Wall Construction Through Texas’ Big Bend Parks

Listen to the full episode of "90 Miles from Needles" for an in-depth discussion on the environmental and social dimensions of border wall construction, and stay tuned for more insightful conversations on desert protection and advocacy.

In this episode, host Chris Clarke engages in an enlightening conversation with Laiken Jordahl from the Center for Biological Diversity. Focusing on the contentious issue of border wall construction, Jordahl sheds light on the potential threats posed by the Department of Homeland Security's proposed developments near Big Bend National Park in Texas. This discussion is not just a critique of environmental degradation but also highlights the unique coalition of local residents opposing these plans, emphasizing the union of diverse communities in protecting the Rio Grande's ecological integrity.
Jordahl articulates the environmental and social impact of the wall, touching on topics like endangered species, cultural connections, and community resilience. With references to biodiversity in the region, the conversation also delves into the critical role local communities play in safeguarding public lands. From agave blooms to wildlife threats and the interruption of the natural landscape, the dialogue underscores an urgent call to action. Through poignant anecdotes and insightful commentary, this episode captures the essence of grassroots activism and cross-border unity in the face of federal infrastructure challenges.
Note for AI skeptics: the episode artwork was created with Photoshop and a human brain.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>Local communities in Big Bend are uniting against proposed border wall construction, citing environmental, cultural, and economic concerns.</li>
<li>The coalition opposing the wall includes diverse stakeholders, from conservative ranchers to progressive environmentalists, all valuing the region's unique ecological and cultural landscape.</li>
<li>Proposed border wall construction risks significant ecological damage, including threats to endangered species and water access within the Rio Grande.</li>
<li>The episode explores the cross-border cultural and environmental exchanges that define the Big Bend region&rsquo;s identity, threatened by potential development.</li>
<li>Activist efforts and community resilience offer a hopeful prospect for halting destructive infrastructure projects along the U.S.-Mexico border.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ol>
<li>"They don't want to see their mountains dynamited and their native plants bulldozed and destroyed." - Laiken Jordahl</li>
<li>"All of the local sheriffs, including a number of very conservative Republicans who run and campaign on border security issues, oppose this wall." - Laiken Jordahl</li>
<li>"The Rio Grande, it's really a river in recovery. And we have an opportunity to restore this river and allow for the recovery of so many native species." - Laiken Jordahl</li>
<li>"Once you see the grandeur, the remoteness, the rugged beauty of this region, there's no way you're not going to fight like hell to protect it." - Laiken Jordahl</li>
<li>"These are not professional organizers. These are not paid NGO actors. These are people fighting for their livelihoods." - Laiken Jordahl</li>
</ol>
Resources:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/nobigbendwall">No Big Bend Wall on Instagram</a></li>
<li>Follow Laiken Jordahl on social media for updates on border issues: <a href="https://twitter.com/">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/">Instagram</a>.</li>
<li>Center For Biological Doiversity press release: <a href="https://biologicaldiversity.org/w/news/press-releases/congress-urged-to-block-border-wall-construction-through-texass-big-bend-parks-2026-03-12/?_gl=1*aehhu1*_gcl_au*MjkwNTE0NzgyLjE3NzM2ODUxMTg.">Congress Urged to Block Border Wall Construction Through Texas&rsquo; Big Bend Parks</a></li>
</ul>
Listen to the full episode of "90 Miles from Needles" for an in-depth discussion on the environmental and social dimensions of border wall construction, and stay tuned for more insightful conversations on desert protection and advocacy.

Chris Clarke and Laiken Jordahl of the Center for Biological Diversity, discuss the campaign against proposed border wall expansions in the Big Bend region of West Texas.  The episode explores the wall's potential impact on communities, ecosystems, and wildlife. Discover grassroots efforts uniting diverse communities in opposition to the wall, driven by shared passion for preserving the area's ecological and cultural heritage. Learn about the organized efforts to safeguard one of the last untouched stretches of the U.S.-Mexico border and the unexpected alliances forming to counteract this divisive project.

S5E10: ¡No al muro! Big Bend Neighbors Fight Proposed Border Wall

In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke invites Caroline Tracey, author of "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History," to discuss her newest work and its publication on March 17th. The conversation navigates from Caroline's initial inspiration at the Salton Sea in 2014 to the array of topics covered in her book, including the ecology of salt lakes, their historical significance, and the weaving in of queer theory as a lens for understanding these unique ecosystems.

The episode dives deep into Caroline's exploration of salt lakes around the world, illustrating unexpected commonalities in their ecological functions and human impacts. By employing queer theory, she highlights non-normative reproductive structures and challenges traditional perceptions of barren desert landscapes. Chris and Caroline further discuss the personal evolution that paralleled the book’s creation, providing listeners with an enriched understanding of the world’s salt lakes' environmental and cultural intricacies. This episode serves as a compelling invitation to rethink the narratives around desert ecosystems, encouraging proactive preservation through enriched storytelling.

Key Takeaways:


Caroline Tracey began her journey to writing "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History" after visiting the Salton Sea in 2014, inspired by the interplay of natural history, policy, and personal narrative.


The book highlights the global patterns of ecological degradation in salt lakes due to factors like water diversion for agriculture, drawing parallels between lakes in North America, Central Asia, and Mexico.


Caroline incorporates queer theory to explore ecological dynamics, introducing a fresh perspective on the biodiversity and resilience of salt lakes.


Deserts and their salt lakes are misunderstood landscapes, often labeled as wastelands, yet they are biologically and culturally rich.


The interview sheds light on various ecosystems, advocating for conservation efforts by demonstrating how altered perceptions can foster environmental appreciation and advocacy.

Notable Quotes:


"I think for some people just the idea of what a salt lake is, it helps to ground them in terms of not just the utility but the beauty."


"Queer theory played a role in that because I really wanted to think about those conceptual issues of 'how do you feel at home in a place that's changing very fast?'"


"Salt lakes are...like a canary in a coal mine...because they are at the end of the water system."


"If I can convince other people that these landscapes are beautiful and fertile and worth protecting, that has a ripple effect upwards."

Resources:


Caroline Tracey's book tour for Salt Lakes


Buy "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History"


The Border Chronicle


read Sunaura Taylor's "Disabled Ecologies: Lessons from a Wounded Desert"

In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke invites Caroline Tracey, author of "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History," to discuss her newest work and its publication on March 17th. The conversation navigates from Caroline's initial inspiration at the Salton Sea in 2014 to the array of topics covered in her book, including the ecology of salt lakes, their historical significance, and the weaving in of queer theory as a lens for understanding these unique ecosystems.
The episode dives deep into Caroline's exploration of salt lakes around the world, illustrating unexpected commonalities in their ecological functions and human impacts. By employing queer theory, she highlights non-normative reproductive structures and challenges traditional perceptions of barren desert landscapes. Chris and Caroline further discuss the personal evolution that paralleled the book&rsquo;s creation, providing listeners with an enriched understanding of the world&rsquo;s salt lakes' environmental and cultural intricacies. This episode serves as a compelling invitation to rethink the narratives around desert ecosystems, encouraging proactive preservation through enriched storytelling.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>
Caroline Tracey began her journey to writing "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History" after visiting the Salton Sea in 2014, inspired by the interplay of natural history, policy, and personal narrative.
</li>
<li>
The book highlights the global patterns of ecological degradation in salt lakes due to factors like water diversion for agriculture, drawing parallels between lakes in North America, Central Asia, and Mexico.
</li>
<li>
Caroline incorporates queer theory to explore ecological dynamics, introducing a fresh perspective on the biodiversity and resilience of salt lakes.
</li>
<li>
Deserts and their salt lakes are misunderstood landscapes, often labeled as wastelands, yet they are biologically and culturally rich.
</li>
<li>
The interview sheds light on various ecosystems, advocating for conservation efforts by demonstrating how altered perceptions can foster environmental appreciation and advocacy.
</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ul>
<li>
"I think for some people just the idea of what a salt lake is, it helps to ground them in terms of not just the utility but the beauty."
</li>
<li>
"Queer theory played a role in that because I really wanted to think about those conceptual issues of 'how do you feel at home in a place that's changing very fast?'"
</li>
<li>
"Salt lakes are...like a canary in a coal mine...because they are at the end of the water system."
</li>
<li>
"If I can convince other people that these landscapes are beautiful and fertile and worth protecting, that has a ripple effect upwards."
</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.changinghands.com/event/march2026/caroline-traceyhttps://freight.cargo.site/w/1440/q/75/i/R2823984205234517378020547229432/SaltLakes_Tour_2.jpg">Caroline Tracey's book tour for Salt Lakes</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://bookshop.org/a/96025/9781324089025">Buy "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History"</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.theborderchronicle.com/">The Border Chronicle</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://bookshop.org/a/96025/9780520424692">read Sunaura Taylor's "Disabled Ecologies: Lessons from a Wounded Desert"</a>
</li>
</ul>

Join host Chris Clarke on "90 Miles from Needles" as he talks with Caroline Tracey about her latest book, "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History." Explore themes of salt lake conservation, colonialism, and queer theory, revealing unique insights into these fragile desert ecosystems. The discussion touches on global lake preservation efforts and the intertwining of personal transformation with ecological narratives. This episode offers a compelling blend of environmental advocacy and cultural discourse, seamlessly integrating human and natural stories.

S5E9: Why Salt Lakes Matter More Than Ever

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.

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:
<ul>
<li>The episode explores the lasting impact of recent allegations against Cesar Chavez, which profoundly affect his legacy within activist movements.</li>
<li>Chris discusses the challenges in separating Chavez's contributions to labor rights from his personal misconduct and abuse.</li>
<li>Examination of leadership within progressive movements highlights the dangers of a centralized cult of personality.</li>
<li>The discussion offers insights into how allegations of misconduct by leaders affect the morale and trajectory of advocacy efforts.</li>
<li>The host emphasizes the need for inclusive and responsible leadership that prioritizes the community's cause over individual recognition.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ul>
<li>"Heroes are really problematic. I keep learning this over and over again."</li>
<li>"The decline of the UFW is a testament to the failings of leadership that centered ego and image over collective goals."</li>
<li>"When leaders put their self-interests first, they sabotage the very movements they claim to champion."</li>
<li>"Ask yourself how much more good Chavez might have been responsible for if he had not been a rapist."</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>For more on the Cesar Chavez revelations, see <a href="https://threesonorans.substack.com/p/cesar-chavez-marches-are-being-canceled">This article by David Morales at Three Sonorans</a>.</li>
<li>Three Sonorans<a href="https://threesonorans.substack.com/p/no-mas-santos-no-mas-santas-solo"> also addresses criticism of Dolores Huerta's role in all this</a>.</li>
<li><a href="https://ufwfoundation.org/statement-from-the-ufw-foundation/">Here's the UFW Foundation's comment on the revelations.</a></li>
<li>Need help? Visit <a href="https://www.iasp.info/">IASP</a> for crisis support or call 800-656-HOPE.</li>
<li>Suggestions from the host include exploring the resources available at <a href="https://www.rainn.org/">RAINN</a>.</li>
</ul>
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.

In this episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris shares a personal perspective on the legacy of Cesar Chavez and discusses the impact of recent revelations on the progressive movement. Chris is a seasoned journalist and advocate for desert protection with a robust history of addressing environmental and social justice issues.

S1E11: Deconstructing Ed Abbey

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