Join host Chris Clarke and guest Dr. Naomi Fraga, Director of Conservation Programs at the California Botanic Garden, as they explore the challenges and successes in desert plant conservation in Nevada. Discover the plight of Tiehm's buckwheat threatened by a lithium-boron mining project and the promising steps toward protection for the Tecopa bird's beak. Navigate the complexities of environmental protection amid rapid industrialization and learn about the vibrant ecosystems that hang in the balance. Discover how these efforts intertwine with broader themes of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

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 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.

S3E33: Dr. Naomi Fraga on the Frontlines of Botanical Conservation

In this special Election Day 2024 episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris sheds light on the crucial role of civic engagement in the ongoing struggle to protect North America’s deserts. Released strategically on a day when decisions hold power over environmental policies, this episode emphasizes the dual efforts needed both in voting and ongoing advocacy to drive the change they wish to see in environmental and desert policies.

In this special Election Day 2024 episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris sheds light on the crucial role of civic engagement in the ongoing struggle to protect North America’s deserts. 

S3E32: Vote, Engage, and Protect Our Desert

About the Guest(s): 

Chris Clarke is the host of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." He brings a wealth of knowledge about wildlife and conservation topics, particularly relating to the American Southwest's deserts.

Rick LoBello is the Education and Conservation Curator at the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, with previous experience as a park ranger at Big Bend National Park. A founding member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rick has decades of experience advocating for the conservation of the Mexican wolf.

Erin Hunt is an advocate with Lobos of the Southwest. She has over 16 years of experience working on Mexican wolf conservation, particularly in public education, outreach, and coexistence efforts with ranching communities.

Philip Sozanski is an AP U.S. History and AP Research teacher, and an independent historian focusing on environmental history. He is a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, with a strong interest in Texas's natural heritage and history of wildlife conservation.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into the crucial work of the Texas Lobo Coalition to restore the Mexican wolf to its former ranges in West Texas. Featuring insightful discussions with Rick LoBello, Erin Hunt, and Philip Sozanski, the episode captures the passion and urgency behind their conservation efforts. The group's goal is to foster coexistence between wolves and locals, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits wildlife and people alike. Throughout the episode, listeners learn about the historical and ecological significance of the Mexican wolf, also known as the Lobo, in Texas. Rick LoBello shares his extensive experience with wolf conservation, while Erin Hunt discusses the importance of restoring ecosystems to ensure a future for diverse species, including the Mexican wolf. Philip Sozanski highlights the historical challenges and the cultural fears attached to wolves, which have persisted for centuries. Together, they make a compelling case for reintroducing this essential apex predator, emphasizing the potential positive impact on the Texas landscape.



Key Takeaways:



The Texas Lobo Coalition works tirelessly to create support among local landowners and the broader community for reintroducing the Mexican wolf to Texas.

Mexican wolves once roamed parts of Texas but were hunted to near extinction by the mid-20th century due to conflicts with livestock farming.

Current conservation efforts emphasize the ecological benefits of wolves, including maintaining healthy prey populations and ecosystems.

Myths and fears about wolves persist, but evidence shows they pose little threat to human safety; education is crucial to change outdated perceptions.

Restoring the Mexican wolf requires collaboration, empathy, and understanding that successful coexistence leads to healthier environments for all.

Notable Quotes:
"Our main aim is to find a way to give this animal a chance to return to its native landscape." – Rick LoBello 2. "We're not necessarily asking people to love wolves. We're asking people, what do you need from this land that you care about?" – Erin Hunt
"Texans are rabid about their history and about their heritage, and the natural history of Texas is incomplete without the presence of this iconic species." – Philip Sozanski
"Coexistence is absolutely possible. We know it works." – Erin Hunt

Resources:

 Texas Lobo Coalition: [texaslobocoalition.org](https://www.texaslobocoalition.org)

Lobos of the Southwest: [https://mexicanwolves.org/](https://www. https://mexicanwolves.org/) *

Wolf Conservation Center: [nywolf.org](https://www.nywolf.org)



Join us as we explore fascinating topics about desert wildlife conservation and the intricate dynamics of ecosystems. Listen to the full episode to discover how you too can support efforts to bring back the majestic Mexican wolf to its rightful home.

About the Guest(s): Chris Clarke is the host of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." He brings a wealth of knowledge about wildlife and conservation topics, particularly relating to the American Southwest's deserts.
Rick LoBello is the Education and Conservation Curator at the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, with previous experience as a park ranger at Big Bend National Park. A founding member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rick has decades of experience advocating for the conservation of the Mexican wolf.
Erin Hunt is an advocate with Lobos of the Southwest. She has over 16 years of experience working on Mexican wolf conservation, particularly in public education, outreach, and coexistence efforts with ranching communities.
Philip Sozanski is an AP U.S. History and AP Research teacher, and an independent historian focusing on environmental history. He is a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, with a strong interest in Texas's natural heritage and history of wildlife conservation.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into the crucial work of the Texas Lobo Coalition to restore the Mexican wolf to its former ranges in West Texas. Featuring insightful discussions with Rick LoBello, Erin Hunt, and Philip Sozanski, the episode captures the passion and urgency behind their conservation efforts. The group's goal is to foster coexistence between wolves and locals, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits wildlife and people alike. Throughout the episode, listeners learn about the historical and ecological significance of the Mexican wolf, also known as the Lobo, in Texas. Rick LoBello shares his extensive experience with wolf conservation, while Erin Hunt discusses the importance of restoring ecosystems to ensure a future for diverse species, including the Mexican wolf. Philip Sozanski highlights the historical challenges and the cultural fears attached to wolves, which have persisted for centuries. Together, they make a compelling case for reintroducing this essential apex predator, emphasizing the potential positive impact on the Texas landscape.
 
Key Takeaways:
 
The Texas Lobo Coalition works tirelessly to create support among local landowners and the broader community for reintroducing the Mexican wolf to Texas.
Mexican wolves once roamed parts of Texas but were hunted to near extinction by the mid-20th century due to conflicts with livestock farming.
Current conservation efforts emphasize the ecological benefits of wolves, including maintaining healthy prey populations and ecosystems.
Myths and fears about wolves persist, but evidence shows they pose little threat to human safety; education is crucial to change outdated perceptions.
Restoring the Mexican wolf requires collaboration, empathy, and understanding that successful coexistence leads to healthier environments for all.
Notable Quotes:
<ol>
<li>"Our main aim is to find a way to give this animal a chance to return to its native landscape." – Rick LoBello 2. "We're not necessarily asking people to love wolves. We're asking people, what do you need from this land that you care about?" – Erin Hunt</li>
<li>"Texans are rabid about their history and about their heritage, and the natural history of Texas is incomplete without the presence of this iconic species." – Philip Sozanski</li>
<li>"Coexistence is absolutely possible. We know it works." – Erin Hunt</li>
</ol>
Resources:
 Texas Lobo Coalition: [texaslobocoalition.org](https://www.texaslobocoalition.org)
Lobos of the Southwest: [https://mexicanwolves.org/](https://www. https://mexicanwolves.org/) *
Wolf Conservation Center: [nywolf.org](<a href="https://www.nywolf.org">https://www.nywolf.org</a>)
 
Join us as we explore fascinating topics about desert wildlife conservation and the intricate dynamics of ecosystems. Listen to the full episode to discover how you too can support efforts to bring back the majestic Mexican wolf to its rightful home.

Rick LoBello, Erin Hunt, and Philip Sozanski of the Texas Lobo Coalition  discuss strategies to reintroduce wolves to Texas and the ecological benefits they may bring.

S3E31: Return of the Lobo: Restoring Texas' Mexican Wolves

Juniper Harrower
Juniper Harrower is an artist and ecologist currently serving as an art professor at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. Born in Palm Springs and raised in the high desert, Harrower has a profound connection with desert ecology. Her work is deeply intertwined with Joshua tree ecosystems, blending art with scientific inquiry to explore the impact of climate change on desert habitats. Harrower's work has been featured in academic and artistic spheres, with a focus on ecological relationships and environmental restoration.

Sant Khalsa
Sant Khalsa is an accomplished artist and curator who has been actively engaged in environmental issues through her artwork for over four decades. A professor emerita from Cal State San Bernardino, Khalsa has contributed extensively to eco-conscious art practices. Her curatorial work, especially on the exhibition "Desert Forest:  Life with Joshua Trees," highlights her commitment to the intersection of art, environment, and activism.

Chris Clarke
Chris Clarke is a presenter and writer with a keen focus on environmental conservation, particularly involving desert ecology and Joshua trees. He has a history of extensive research and analysis on ecological subjects, bringing both scientific and cultural insights into discussions on plant conservation.

Episode Summary:

Explore the rich intersections of art, ecology, and desert life in this episode with Juniper Harrower, Sant Khalsa, and Chris Clarke. As curators and contributors to the "Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book, Sant and Juniper provide in-depth insights into their journey from conception to realization of this comprehensive project. Highlighted by compelling storytelling, the episode delves into their deep-rooted connections to the desert, blending scientific research with artistic expression to illuminate the pressing environmental issues affecting Joshua trees today.

The conversation covers the inspiration behind the exhibition, aiming to elevate the dialogue around Joshua Trees through a blend of factual inquiry and creative artwork. The exhibition, part of the Getty-supported PST art and science Collide, explores the rich ecological, cultural, and historical narratives surrounding Joshua Trees. Sant and Juniper share the collaborative process of engaging over 50 artists, writers, and scientists (and some contributors that fit into more than just one of these categories) to create multidimensional representations of the desert ecosystem.

Key Takeaways:


Integration of Art and Science: The "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" project successfully merges scientific research with artistic expression to present a comprehensive understanding of Joshua trees and their ecosystems.


Curatorial Approach: Sant Khalsa emphasizes the exhibition's unique curatorial approach by highlighting its breadth and the synergy between artists who live in the Joshua Tree area.


Community Involvement: Both the book and exhibition foster community engagement by raising awareness of ecological issues and promoting proactive environmental stewardship.


Environmental Threats: The show underscores the urgent threats faced by Joshua Trees, including climate change, industrial development, and habitat destruction.


Cultural Significance: Juniper and Sant explore the deep-rooted cultural symbolism of Joshua Trees and address historical and current challenges through art and science narratives.

Resources:


Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees: Inlandia Institute


Museum Of Art and History: https://www.lancastermoah.org/


Juniper Harrower: Juniper's Work


Sant Khalsa: Sant's Work

Immerse yourself fully in the "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book to appreciate the intricate dance of art, science, and nature presented by Juniper Harrower and Sant Khalsa. Consider this episode a portal into deeper understanding and appreciation of desert life, with a wealth of knowledge that emphasizes sustainability, cultural identity, and ecological balance. Stay tuned for more from the 90 Miles from Needles podcast, illuminating the vast and vibrant landscapes of our deserts.

Juniper Harrower Juniper Harrower is an artist and ecologist currently serving as an art professor at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. Born in Palm Springs and raised in the high desert, Harrower has a profound connection with desert ecology. Her work is deeply intertwined with Joshua tree ecosystems, blending art with scientific inquiry to explore the impact of climate change on desert habitats. Harrower's work has been featured in academic and artistic spheres, with a focus on ecological relationships and environmental restoration.
Sant Khalsa Sant Khalsa is an accomplished artist and curator who has been actively engaged in environmental issues through her artwork for over four decades. A professor emerita from Cal State San Bernardino, Khalsa has contributed extensively to eco-conscious art practices. Her curatorial work, especially on the exhibition "Desert Forest:  Life with Joshua Trees," highlights her commitment to the intersection of art, environment, and activism.
Chris Clarke Chris Clarke is a presenter and writer with a keen focus on environmental conservation, particularly involving desert ecology and Joshua trees. He has a history of extensive research and analysis on ecological subjects, bringing both scientific and cultural insights into discussions on plant conservation.
Episode Summary:
Explore the rich intersections of art, ecology, and desert life in this episode with Juniper Harrower, Sant Khalsa, and Chris Clarke. As curators and contributors to the "Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book, Sant and Juniper provide in-depth insights into their journey from conception to realization of this comprehensive project. Highlighted by compelling storytelling, the episode delves into their deep-rooted connections to the desert, blending scientific research with artistic expression to illuminate the pressing environmental issues affecting Joshua trees today.
The conversation covers the inspiration behind the exhibition, aiming to elevate the dialogue around Joshua Trees through a blend of factual inquiry and creative artwork. The exhibition, part of the Getty-supported PST art and science Collide, explores the rich ecological, cultural, and historical narratives surrounding Joshua Trees. Sant and Juniper share the collaborative process of engaging over 50 artists, writers, and scientists (and some contributors that fit into more than just one of these categories) to create multidimensional representations of the desert ecosystem.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>
Integration of Art and Science: The "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" project successfully merges scientific research with artistic expression to present a comprehensive understanding of Joshua trees and their ecosystems.
</li>
<li>
Curatorial Approach: Sant Khalsa emphasizes the exhibition's unique curatorial approach by highlighting its breadth and the synergy between artists who live in the Joshua Tree area.
</li>
<li>
Community Involvement: Both the book and exhibition foster community engagement by raising awareness of ecological issues and promoting proactive environmental stewardship.
</li>
<li>
Environmental Threats: The show underscores the urgent threats faced by Joshua Trees, including climate change, industrial development, and habitat destruction.
</li>
<li>
Cultural Significance: Juniper and Sant explore the deep-rooted cultural symbolism of Joshua Trees and address historical and current challenges through art and science narratives.
</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>
Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees: <a href="https://inlandiainstitute.org/">Inlandia Institute</a>
</li>
<li>
Museum Of Art and History: <a href="https://www.lancastermoah.org/">https://www.lancastermoah.org/</a>
</li>
<li>
Juniper Harrower: <a href="https://www.juniperharrower.com/">Juniper's Work</a>
</li>
<li>
Sant Khalsa: <a href="http://www.santkhalsa.com/">Sant's Work</a>
</li>
</ul>
Immerse yourself fully in the "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book to appreciate the intricate dance of art, science, and nature presented by Juniper Harrower and Sant Khalsa. Consider this episode a portal into deeper understanding and appreciation of desert life, with a wealth of knowledge that emphasizes sustainability, cultural identity, and ecological balance. Stay tuned for more from the 90 Miles from Needles podcast, illuminating the vast and vibrant landscapes of our deserts.

S3E33: Dr. Naomi Fraga on the Frontlines of Botanical Conservation

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