We delve into the world of the saguaro cactus, exploring its cultural significance, scientific studies, and more. We talk to journalist Henry Brean of the Arizona Daily Star and Tucson storyteller Audrey Scheere about different aspects of this magnificent plant, the threats it faces,  and how people interact with it — for good or ill. Join us as we uncover the secrets of the saguaro!

We delve into the world of the saguaro cactus, exploring its cultural significance, scientific studies, and more. We talk to journalist Henry Brean of the Arizona Daily Star and Tucson storyteller Audrey Scheere about different aspects of this magnificent plant, the threats it faces,  and how people interact with it — for good or ill. Join us as we uncover the secrets of the saguaro!

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.

S2E12: The Majestic Saguaro, Part 1

Discover the ancient plants of the desert in this episode of 90 Miles from Needles. From the 11,700-year-old King Clone creosote bush to the surprisingly long lifespans of cholla cacti and Mojave yuccas, host Chris Clarke explores the remarkable longevity of these desert plants. Learn how scientists determine the age of these plants through historic photographs and longitudinal studies. Gain a new appreciation for the resilience and beauty of these ancient desert inhabitants.

There are tens of thousands of plants more than a millennium old growing in the deserts of North America.

S3E15: The Surprising Longevity of Desert Plants

About our Guest:

Jon Rezendes is an influential conservationist with a dedication to the preservation and rewilding of the Chihuahuan Desert region, particularly in El Paso, Texas. His military background brought him to El Paso, where he found a second home amid the natural beauty of the desert landscape. As the Vice President of the Frontera Land Alliance and a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rezendes is a champion for environmental causes in the region. He is a strong advocate for the protection of the Rio Bosque wetland, a critical riparian habitat threatened by development proposals.

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke engages with Jon Rezendes to explore the rich ecological landscape and current environmental threats facing the Chihuahuan Desert, particularly the battle over the Rio Bosque wetlands in El Paso. The conversation provides an in-depth look at the socio-political challenges and the community's fight to prevent detrimental changes.

Jon Rezendes passionately discusses the significance of protecting the delicate Rio Bosque wetlands against proposed infrastructure projects such as a disruptive highway. The area, crucial for migratory birds and local flora and fauna, faces the pressure of urban sprawl and industrial traffic which could irrevocably damage this unique ecosystem. Supported by the local community and organizations, Rezendes highlights the urgent need for advocacy and action to sustain this natural gem. He envisions a future where rewilding efforts expand, forever changing the local desert into a cradle of biodiversity that could one day welcome apex predators like the Mexican wolf back into the region.

Key Takeaways:
The Rio Bosque wetlands near El Paso are a vital habitat for over 260 bird species and numerous other animals, yet they are currently endangered by various threats, including proposed highway projects.
Jon Rezendes advocates for realistic and sustainable alternatives to alleviate traffic that don't damage vital ecosystems, such as improving the existing rail transit system.
Defenders of the wetland are rallying against Texas DOT's proposal for highway construction, gathering community support through petitions and local agency involvement.
The vision for the Rio Grande Valley is one of expanded rewilding, potentially re-establishing apex predators like the Mexican wolf and removing barriers such as the border wall for ecological restoration.
It's critical for the conservation community and influencers beyond Texas to support the efforts to protect and rewild the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystems.

Notable Quotes:
"We intend to shine enough light on this situation to make sure that we're elevating the voices of the people in Socorro that don't want their home to be turned into an unrecognizable industrial wasteland."
"El Paso is small in terms of our influence, but we are mighty in terms of our grassroots efforts."
"We are not going to let this happen. This is absolutely backwards, and we will do anything in our power to prevent a highway through our wetland."
"Nothing would make me happier to know that wolves are running up and down the Rio Grande Valley again, passing between Mexico and the United States."
"Rio Bosque is fighting for survival amid Texas' broader environmental narrative, where prosperous future melds with respect for the land and vibrant riparian forests."

Resources:
Follow Friends of the Rio Bosque on Instagram:@friendsriobosquewetlands
Comment on the Border East highway before May 14  (Even if you're not a Texan).
Texas Lobo Coalition: Texas Lobo Coalition

As we delve into the rich tapestry of environmental activism and the future of the Chihuahuan Desert, we invite listeners to experience the full episode as Jon Rezendes shares his urgent advocacy call for Rio Bosque wetlands. Tune in and join this engaging conversation that may very well shape the natural legacy of Texas and beyond. Stay connected for more episodes from "90 Miles from Needles" that continue to enlighten and inspire.

About our Guest:
Jon Rezendes is an influential conservationist with a dedication to the preservation and rewilding of the Chihuahuan Desert region, particularly in El Paso, Texas. His military background brought him to El Paso, where he found a second home amid the natural beauty of the desert landscape. As the Vice President of the Frontera Land Alliance and a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rezendes is a champion for environmental causes in the region. He is a strong advocate for the protection of the Rio Bosque wetland, a critical riparian habitat threatened by development proposals.
Episode Summary:
In this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke engages with Jon Rezendes to explore the rich ecological landscape and current environmental threats facing the Chihuahuan Desert, particularly the battle over the Rio Bosque wetlands in El Paso. The conversation provides an in-depth look at the socio-political challenges and the community's fight to prevent detrimental changes.
Jon Rezendes passionately discusses the significance of protecting the delicate Rio Bosque wetlands against proposed infrastructure projects such as a disruptive highway. The area, crucial for migratory birds and local flora and fauna, faces the pressure of urban sprawl and industrial traffic which could irrevocably damage this unique ecosystem. Supported by the local community and organizations, Rezendes highlights the urgent need for advocacy and action to sustain this natural gem. He envisions a future where rewilding efforts expand, forever changing the local desert into a cradle of biodiversity that could one day welcome apex predators like the Mexican wolf back into the region.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>The Rio Bosque wetlands near El Paso are a vital habitat for over 260 bird species and numerous other animals, yet they are currently endangered by various threats, including proposed highway projects.</li>
<li>Jon Rezendes advocates for realistic and sustainable alternatives to alleviate traffic that don't damage vital ecosystems, such as improving the existing rail transit system.</li>
<li>Defenders of the wetland are rallying against Texas DOT's proposal for highway construction, gathering community support through petitions and local agency involvement.</li>
<li>The vision for the Rio Grande Valley is one of expanded rewilding, potentially re-establishing apex predators like the Mexican wolf and removing barriers such as the border wall for ecological restoration.</li>
<li>It's critical for the conservation community and influencers beyond Texas to support the efforts to protect and rewild the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystems.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ul>
<li>"We intend to shine enough light on this situation to make sure that we're elevating the voices of the people in Socorro that don't want their home to be turned into an unrecognizable industrial wasteland."</li>
<li>"El Paso is small in terms of our influence, but we are mighty in terms of our grassroots efforts."</li>
<li>"We are not going to let this happen. This is absolutely backwards, and we will do anything in our power to prevent a highway through our wetland."</li>
<li>"Nothing would make me happier to know that wolves are running up and down the Rio Grande Valley again, passing between Mexico and the United States."</li>
<li>"Rio Bosque is fighting for survival amid Texas' broader environmental narrative, where prosperous future melds with respect for the land and vibrant riparian forests."</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>Follow Friends of the Rio Bosque on Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/friendsriobosquewetlands/">@friendsriobosquewetlands</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.txdot.gov/projects/hearings-meetings/el-paso/2024/border-highway-east-corridor-study-050124.html">Comment on the Border East highway before May 14 </a> (Even if you're not a Texan).</li>
<li>Texas Lobo Coalition: <a href="https://www.texaslobo.org/">Texas Lobo Coalition</a></li>
</ul>
As we delve into the rich tapestry of environmental activism and the future of the Chihuahuan Desert, we invite listeners to experience the full episode as Jon Rezendes shares his urgent advocacy call for Rio Bosque wetlands. Tune in and join this engaging conversation that may very well shape the natural legacy of Texas and beyond. Stay connected for more episodes from "90 Miles from Needles" that continue to enlighten and inspire.

Chris Clarke interviews activist Jon Rezendes about the threats facing the Rio Bosque Wetlands in El Paso, Texas

S3E14: Saving El Paso's Rio Bosque Wetlands

In this revealing episode, we delve into the clandestine underworld of archaeological site looting and cultural vandalism in the Southwest. Our esteemed guests, Shannon Cowell and Dustin Whiting of Archaeology Southwest, shine a light on the often-underreported plundering of ancestral lands and the complex web of issues surrounding heritage justice.

Resources:
Archaeology Southwest Website: Archaeology Southwest


Save History Project: Save History


Children's activity book on cultural site preservation: Available for free download on the Save History website.


"End Loot Toll-Free Tip Line": 1-833-END-LOOT, for reporting looting incidents and seeking guidance on cultural artifacts.

Encounter the full gravity of the ethics, laws, and untold stories threading through our nation's desert heritage by listening to this full episode. Stay engaged with "90 Miles from Needles" to uncover more intriguing topics that resonate deeply with those who cherish the desert and its legacy.

In this revealing episode, we delve into the clandestine underworld of archaeological site looting and cultural vandalism in the Southwest. Our esteemed guests, Shannon Cowell and Dustin Whiting of Archaeology Southwest, shine a light on the often-underreported plundering of ancestral lands and the complex web of issues surrounding heritage justice.
Resources:
<ul>
<li>Archaeology Southwest Website: <a href="https://www.archaeologysouthwest.org/">Archaeology Southwest</a></li>
<li>
Save History Project: <a href="https://savehistory.org">Save History</a>
</li>
<li>
Children's activity book on cultural site preservation: Available for free download on the <a href="https://savehistory.org">Save History</a> website.
</li>
<li>
"End Loot Toll-Free Tip Line": 1-833-END-LOOT, for reporting looting incidents and seeking guidance on cultural artifacts.
</li>
</ul>
Encounter the full gravity of the ethics, laws, and untold stories threading through our nation's desert heritage by listening to this full episode. Stay engaged with "90 Miles from Needles" to uncover more intriguing topics that resonate deeply with those who cherish the desert and its legacy.

Discover the widespread issue of looting and vandalism of archaeological resources in the Southwest US on this episode of 90 Miles from Needles. Shannon Cowell and Dusty Whiting from Archaeology Southwest discuss the impact of these crimes on Native American tribes and the importance of preserving cultural sites.

S2E12: The Majestic Saguaro, Part 1

In 1 playlist(s)

90 Miles from Needles: the Desert Protection Podcast

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips