We're not going to be able to save the desert if we self-immolate. Alicia reads Chris the riot act about taking time to enjoy the desert without being preoccupied by saving it. He responds by heading to the Colorado River. Also, we are happy to report on a major blow to the fiendish Cadiz water mining project, and we read your letters. Well, one letter anyway.

We're not going to be able to save the desert if we self-immolate. Alicia reads Chris the riot act about taking time to enjoy the desert without being preoccupied by saving it. He responds by heading to the Colorado River. Also, we are happy to report on a major blow to the fiendish Cadiz water mining project, and we read your letters. Well, one letter anyway.

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.

Saving the desert is a marathon, not a sprint. Remember to breathe.

S1E18 Chris is Stressed Out + Some Good News

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).

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:&nbsp;
"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." -&nbsp;Teal Lehto
Resources:
Teal Lehto on Social Media: Follow @westernwatergirl on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@westernwatergirl">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/westernwatergirl/">Instagram</a> for updates and education on water politics.
90 Miles from Needles Podcast Website: For more episodes and donation opportunities, visit 90MilesFromNeedles.com (<a href="https://90milesfromneedles.com">https://90milesfromneedles.com</a>).

S4E14: @WesternWaterGirl Gives Social Media a Reality Check

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.

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.&nbsp;
Key Takeaways: 
Nature's Resistance: The Joshua Tree has repeatedly thwarted attempts to be commercially exploited, symbolizing nature's stubbornness.&nbsp;
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: <a href="https://barrettbaumgart.com">barrettbaumgart.com </a>
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: <a href="https://90milesfromneedles.com/yuck">90milesfromneedles.com/yuck </a>
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.

Author Barrett Baumgart joins host Chris Clarke on the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast to discuss his new book, "Yuck: The Birth and Death of the Weird and Wondrous Joshua Tree." They explore the historical and cultural perceptions of the Joshua Tree, its stubborn resistance to commodification, and its role in California's desert ecosystem. The conversation dives into Baumgart's unique approach to nature writing and the historical narratives shaping our understanding of this iconic plant. Chris also shares thoughts on current events and environmental challenges facing the desert southwest.

S4E13: Yuck: The Wild, Weird History of Joshua Trees with Barret Baumgart

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.

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&rsquo;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&hellip; the dire wolf is useless without its habitat."
"The ecosystem that held the species and the relationships changes&hellip; 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&hellip;"
Resources:
Learn more about the podcast and support 90 Miles from Needles: <a href="https:/90milesfromneedles.com">https:/90milesfromneedles.com</a>
Hank Green's response: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar0zgedLyTw">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar0zgedLyTw</a>
Hank offers a correction: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jGFT2rnL8Y">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jGFT2rnL8Y</a>
Ventana Wildlife Society Condor Status pge: <a href="https://www.ventanaws.org/status.html">https://www.ventanaws.org/status.html</a>
The Bernie &amp; AOC event in Los Angeles (All 5.5 hours!) <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU_GhbFH2Gw&amp;t=11697s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU_GhbFH2Gw&amp;t=11697s</a>
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.

Chris explores the controversial claim of dire wolves' de-extinction, the ecological implications, and the potential risks tied to genetic modification. Get insights into recent political maneuvers, the delicate nature of ecosystems, and why reviving the past isn't as simple as it seems.

S1E18 Chris is Stressed Out + Some Good News

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