It's been a minute since we published an episode, in part because Chris and Alicia have had complicated lives. Here's how we contend with bad news inside and out of the desert: we go to ground in the desert.

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

It's not a real desert hike unless you get thirsty. Unless your skin gets punctured by an innocent-looking plant. Unless you have a close encounter with a nervous venomous critter. The desert is alive, and it will defend itself. And we will help. 90 Miles From Needles brings you stories from far out in the American outback: a land unlike any other that is both intense and subtle, that has endured for eons in the harshest conditions imaginable but which could go away in a heartbeat if we act the wrong way. Science, politics, hiking and history, culture and creativity all go into defending the desert. Be forewarned: We are out to recruit you to the cause.

It's not a real desert hike unless you get thirsty. Unless your skin gets punctured by an innocent-looking plant. Unless you have a close encounter with a nervous venomous critter. The desert is alive, and it will defend itself. And we will help. 90 Miles From Needles brings you stories from far out in the American outback: a land unlike any other that is both intense and subtle, that has endured for eons in the harshest conditions imaginable but which could go away in a heartbeat if we act the wrong way. Science, politics, hiking and history, culture and creativity all go into defending the desert. Be forewarned: We are out to recruit you to the cause.

90 Miles from Needles Member feed

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.

When we lose parts of the desert, we need ways to keep going.

S2E13: Dealing With Loss

Content note: sadness.

Due to the death of a close family member, we will return on June 5. Listen if you want a few details. 

Pet Loss Resources and Support

Hemangiosarcoma in dogs

Donate to our Fellowship for Desert Reporting

Content note: sadness.
Due to the death of a close family member, we will return on June 5. Listen if you want a few details.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.vet.cornell.edu/impact/community-impact/pet-loss-resources-and-support">Pet Loss Resources and Support</a>
<a href="https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/hemangiosarcoma-dogs">Hemangiosarcoma in dogs</a>
<a href="https://90milesfromneedles.com/fellowship">Donate to our Fellowship for Desert Reporting</a>

Due to the death of a close family member, we will return on June 5. Listen if you want a few details. 

Short Update: Explaining Our Brief Hiatus

In this episode, Chris talks with longtime border environmental activist Russ McSpadden about the controversial plans to erect a second border wall on the U.S.-Mexico borde. From the devastating effects on the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument to the desecration of a sacred geoglyph, Russ details the harm this unnecessary project would cause. The discussion emphasizes the challenges posed by waived environmental and cultural protection laws.

Russ also speaks about new hope—the sighting of a jaguar in the Arizona skies offering a glimmer of resilience in the face of destruction. The episode also highlights his new poetry book "Borderlings," depicting life and conservation struggles along the border. Dive into this compelling dialogue for an in-depth understanding of desert conservation challenges and the ongoing fight to protect these precious landscapes from further harm.

Key Takeaways:


Ecological Impact of Border Wall: The construction of a second border wall poses critical challenges to biodiversity and destroys valuable habitats for numerous species, including the danger of groundwater depletion affecting Quitobaquito Springs.


Cultural Destruction Alert: The episode highlights the significant damage done to ancient geoglyphs and indigenous cultural sites, emphasizing the negligence in preserving sacred sites.


Legal Loopholes: The Real ID Act allows the waiver of significant environmental laws, facilitating unchecked progression of border wall construction, underscoring a critical need for legislative review.


Spotting Conservation Hope: The recent sighting of a new jaguar in Arizona demonstrates the continued, albeit precarious, presence of these majestic creatures in their historical habitats.


Personal Reflections in Poetry: Russ McSpadden's book "Borderlings" offers personal insight and reflections on the emotional and environmental turmoil of border regions, combining advocacy with creative expression.

Notable Quotes:


"These contractors who can't be even trusted to protect cultural sites sitting on the surface can really not be trusted to protect our groundwater sources as well."


"We can't sue under the Endangered Species act because the Endangered Species act has been waived."


"This area represents this whole circuit of trade networks amongst various peoples... it was a place of exchange and movement and trade."


"These are jaguars that are rewilding themselves across the southern border into incredible habitat in their traditional mountain ranges."


"The federal government has declared it [the border] an invasion and a sort of a war."

Resources:


Center for Biological Diversity


Russ McSpadden’s Book: "Borderlings"
See the Jaguar camera trap video


"90 Miles From Needles" Podcast on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and Threads.

In this episode, Chris talks with longtime border environmental activist Russ McSpadden about the controversial plans to erect a second border wall on the U.S.-Mexico borde. From the devastating effects on the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument to the desecration of a sacred geoglyph, Russ details the harm this unnecessary project would cause.&nbsp;The discussion emphasizes the challenges posed by waived environmental and cultural protection laws.
Russ also speaks about new hope&mdash;the sighting of a jaguar in the Arizona skies offering a glimmer of resilience in the face of destruction. The episode also highlights his new poetry book "Borderlings," depicting life and conservation struggles along the border. Dive into this compelling dialogue for an in-depth understanding of desert conservation challenges and the ongoing fight to protect these precious landscapes from further harm.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>
Ecological Impact of Border Wall: The construction of a second border wall poses critical challenges to biodiversity and destroys valuable habitats for numerous species, including the danger of groundwater depletion affecting Quitobaquito Springs.
</li>
<li>
Cultural Destruction Alert: The episode highlights the significant damage done to ancient geoglyphs and indigenous cultural sites, emphasizing the negligence in preserving sacred sites.
</li>
<li>
Legal Loopholes: The Real ID Act allows the waiver of significant environmental laws, facilitating unchecked progression of border wall construction, underscoring a critical need for legislative review.
</li>
<li>
Spotting Conservation Hope: The recent sighting of a new jaguar in Arizona demonstrates the continued, albeit precarious, presence of these majestic creatures in their historical habitats.
</li>
<li>
Personal Reflections in Poetry: Russ McSpadden's book "Borderlings" offers personal insight and reflections on the emotional and environmental turmoil of border regions, combining advocacy with creative expression.
</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ol>
<li>
"These contractors who can't be even trusted to protect cultural sites sitting on the surface can really not be trusted to protect our groundwater sources as well."
</li>
<li>
"We can't sue under the Endangered Species act because the Endangered Species act has been waived."
</li>
<li>
"This area represents this whole circuit of trade networks amongst various peoples... it was a place of exchange and movement and trade."
</li>
<li>
"These are jaguars that are rewilding themselves across the southern border into incredible habitat in their traditional mountain ranges."
</li>
<li>
"The federal government has declared it [the border] an invasion and a sort of a war."
</li>
</ol>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="http://www.biologicaldiversity.org">Center for Biological Diversity</a>
</li>
<li>
Russ McSpadden&rsquo;s Book: "<a href="https://www.artspeakpress.com/shop/p/borderlings">Borderlings</a>"
</li>
<li><a href="https://youtu.be/pFM6DwsjvUI">See the Jaguar camera trap video</a></li>
<li>
"90 Miles From Needles" Podcast on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/90MilesFromNeedles">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/90milesfromneedles">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://bsky.app">Bluesky</a>, and <a href="https://www.threads.net/90milesfromneedles">Threads</a>.
</li>
</ul>

We talk with Russ McSpadden from the Center for Biological Diversity about the alarming destruction of ancient geoglyphs in border wall construction and the challenges faced by local wildlife and Indigenous cultures. There's also a glimmer of hope with the reappearance of a jaguar in Arizona.

S5E16: The Double Border Wall: A New Environmental Catastrophe

Episode Summary:

In this episode, host Chris Clarke revisits the spirited discussion surrounding the High Desert Art Fair and its portrayal in media. Cindy Bernard and Bernard Leibov engage in a dialogue to address critiques and misconceptions, particularly related to an LA Times article that stirred emotions within the Morongo Basin. Their conversation navigates the crucial roles of artists in economic and cultural spheres while emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding among residents and media alike.

As the episode unfolds, Cindy and Bernard elaborate on key differences between various art events like the High Desert Art Fair and Desert X, underscoring their distinct roles in cultural development. They explore the often-contentious relationship between commerce and creativity. Their exchanges offer critical insight into the dynamics of art, community, and conservation in the desert landscapes.

Key Takeaways:
The High Desert Art Fair has been a growing initiative offering free and subsidized opportunities for local artists, contributing significantly to the community's cultural economy.
There is a clear distinction between art fairs, like the High Desert Art Fair, and international biennials, such as Desert X, each serving different purposes and audiences.
Addressing public misconceptions, the guests stress the importance of education and nuanced dialogue between new artistic movements and long-standing community members.
The podcast underscores the value of local movements toward smart cultural and economic integration, contributing to more balanced community development in desert regions.
Cindy Bernard and Bernard Leibov highlight the necessity for creative expression and economic sustainability to coexist in an evolving rural landscape.

Notable Quotes:
"The desert needs all sorts of people in order to be the economic place that it is. It's an environmental place, but it's also an economic place." — Cindy Bernard
"Let's allow people some grace… We're all trespassing in a sense." — Bernard Leibov
"Art and culture's existence in desert regions is crucial not only to expression but also to fostering economic opportunities." — Cindy Bernard
"We are all adapting and learning, and education about the land and community is crucial for any new player in the desert landscape." — Bernard Leibov

Resources:
Visit Desert Trumpet for local news coverage in the Morongo Basin.
Explore Boxo Projects to learn more about artists' residencies and programs in Joshua Tree.
Reference the guidelines for artists on land use developed by key organizations, including the Mojave Desert Land Trust.

This engaging dialogue brings to light the complex dynamics of the desert art scene and community interface, packed with insights on fostering sustainable cultural economics. Tune in to the full episode and continue joining us for more explorative discussions on art, culture, and conservation in "90 Miles from Needles."

Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Chris Clarke revisits the spirited discussion surrounding the High Desert Art Fair and its portrayal in media. Cindy Bernard and Bernard Leibov engage in a dialogue to address critiques and misconceptions, particularly related to an LA Times article that stirred emotions within the Morongo Basin. Their conversation navigates the crucial roles of artists in economic and cultural spheres while emphasizing the need for nuanced understanding among residents and media alike.
As the episode unfolds, Cindy and Bernard elaborate on key differences between various art events like the High Desert Art Fair and Desert X, underscoring their distinct roles in cultural development. They explore the often-contentious relationship between commerce and creativity. Their exchanges offer critical insight into the dynamics of art, community, and conservation in the desert landscapes.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>The High Desert Art Fair has been a growing initiative offering free and subsidized opportunities for local artists, contributing significantly to the community's cultural economy.</li>
<li>There is a clear distinction between art fairs, like the High Desert Art Fair, and international biennials, such as Desert X, each serving different purposes and audiences.</li>
<li>Addressing public misconceptions, the guests stress the importance of education and nuanced dialogue between new artistic movements and long-standing community members.</li>
<li>The podcast underscores the value of local movements toward smart cultural and economic integration, contributing to more balanced community development in desert regions.</li>
<li>Cindy Bernard and Bernard Leibov highlight the necessity for creative expression and economic sustainability to coexist in an evolving rural landscape.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ul>
<li>"The desert needs all sorts of people in order to be the economic place that it is. It's an environmental place, but it's also an economic place." &mdash; Cindy Bernard</li>
<li>"Let's allow people some grace&hellip; We're all trespassing in a sense." &mdash; Bernard Leibov</li>
<li>"Art and culture's existence in desert regions is crucial not only to expression but also to fostering economic opportunities." &mdash; Cindy Bernard</li>
<li>"We are all adapting and learning, and education about the land and community is crucial for any new player in the desert landscape." &mdash; Bernard Leibov</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>Visit <a href="https://deserttrumpet.substack.com/">Desert Trumpet</a> for local news coverage in the Morongo Basin.</li>
<li>Explore <a href="http://boxoprojects.com/">Boxo Projects</a> to learn more about artists' residencies and programs in Joshua Tree.</li>
<li>Reference the guidelines for artists on land use developed by key organizations, including the Mojave Desert Land Trust.</li>
</ul>
This engaging dialogue brings to light the complex dynamics of the desert art scene and community interface, packed with insights on fostering sustainable cultural economics. Tune in to the full episode and continue joining us for more explorative discussions on art, culture, and conservation in "90 Miles from Needles."

Dive into a nuanced revisitation of the High Desert Art Fair with Chris Clarke, Cindy Bernard, and Bernard Leibov. This episode explores the intersection of art, commerce, and desert communities, addressing local perspectives and the broader implications for the art world. Discover insights on cultural and economic dynamics in the Morongo Basin, comparisons between desert towns like Marfa and the Hamptons, and the evolving relationship between art and environment. Join the conversation about balancing artistic vision and community concerns, and explore how desert landscapes inspire these discussions.

S2E13: Dealing With Loss

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90 Miles from Needles: the Desert Protection Podcast

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