Our Public Lands (Adam Bronstein)
Explore every episode of Our Public Lands
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 Jun 2024 | #1 - Poisoning the Public Lands | 01:09:18 | |
In the inaugural episode of 'Our Public Lands,' host Adam Bronstein speaks with Sharon Selvaggio from the Xerces Society about the federal USDA APHIS grasshopper and Mormon cricket spraying program. They explore the extensive use of pesticides on public and private lands to control these native species and its widespread ecological impacts. Sharon provides insight into her background, the mission of Xerces, and the critical importance of invertebrate conservation. The discussion highlights the negative effects of these sprays on biodiversity, the need for more sustainable land management practices, and the current legislative and public engagement efforts to reform the program. 00:00 Introduction to Our Public Lands Podcast 00:57 Launching the New Project 03:31 Sharon's Background and Journey 05:22 Importance of Public Lands 07:11 Overview of Xerces Society 13:04 Focus on Grasshoppers and Mormon Crickets 13:18 History and Impact of Grasshopper Spraying 25:53 Understanding Grasshopper Outbreaks 31:00 Monitoring and Thresholds for Spraying 32:55 Influence of Human Activities on Outbreaks 33:24 Grasshopper Development and Overgrazing 34:36 Impact of Vegetation on Grasshopper Density 35:52 Managing Public Lands for Biodiversity 38:06 Concerns Over Insecticide Spraying 39:46 Sustainable Solutions for Grasshopper Management 42:05 Case Studies of Insecticide Spraying 52:19 Call for Transparency and Reform 01:05:34 How to Get Involved and Take Action 01:07:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 07 Jul 2024 | #2 - Canopy of Titans | 01:15:53 | |
In this episode of 'Our Public Lands', I interview journalist and environmental investigator Paul Koberstein. Our conversation delves into the importance of protecting old growth forests, and their immense ecological and value. Paul shares his extensive experience in environmental journalism, highlighting landmark investigations by his outfit Cascadia Times, including exposing poaching in the Hawaiian Islands and air pollution issues in Oregon. Paul discusses the importance of preserving temperate rainforests for wildlife and carbon sequestration, the role of native species like salmon and beavers in ecosystem health, and the challenges posed by current forestry practices and wildfire management narratives. Paul talks about his new book 'Canopy of Titans,' co-authored with Jessica Applegate, which underscores the global importance of America's temperate rainforests. | |||
| 20 Jul 2024 | #3 - The Gallatin Forest Partnership Exposed | 01:12:37 | |
In this detailed conversation, I interview Dr. Joseph Scalia III to discuss our journey with the Gallatin Yellowstone Wilderness Alliance (GYWA) based in Bozeman, Montana and the broader challenges facing wilderness preservation. We reflect on our past and present experiences, including efforts to advocate for wilderness designations on public lands in the Gallatin Range and northern Yellowstone ecosystem. We delve into the complexities of environmental advocacy, the influence of big green groups, and the negative impacts of increased recreation on these lands. We also highlight the importance of species like grizzly bear and elk and discuss legislative efforts and The Gallatin Forests Partnership, a conservation collaborative, that poses a huge risk to the wild Gallatins. This conversation spans the transformational changes needed in both public perception and policy to genuinely protect the the Gallatin Range, Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and beyond. www.gallatinyellowstonewilderness.org | |||
| 10 Aug 2024 | #4 - Balancing Grazing and Conservation—Is it Possible? | 01:29:25 | |
In this episode I interview Laura Welp, Ecosystems Specialist with the Western Watersheds Project. We discuss the significance of our public lands, and the democratic principles that should underpin their management. Our discussion addresses the conflicts between livestock grazing and ecological health, including challenges from invasive species (like cheatgrass) and livestock impacts on native ecosystems. Various land management strategies and restoration efforts are examined alongside political and ideological tensions. Laura sheds light on the struggles within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), emphasizing the importance of science-based management and the success of wildlife refuges like Hart Mountain and Sheldon where domestic livestock have been removed from the landscape. | |||
| 24 Aug 2024 | #5 - Oregon Coast Conservation | 01:09:45 | |
In this episode, I interview Paul Englemeyer with the Bird Alliance of Oregon (formally the Audubon Society). Paul and I have an in-depth discussion on the conservation efforts and environmental challenges faced on Oregon's Central Coast. We cover topics such as the Clean Water Act, salmon recovery, the ecological importance of beavers, the impact of hatcheries to wild fish populations, forest management, and the significant role of public lands in conservation efforts. Our conversation also touches on the unique life histories of species such as the marbled murrelet and coho salmon. A Celebration of Partnerships for Conservation and Restoration on Oregon's Central Coast. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5626fb1ee4b07be93cf930c1/t/61254e0fd8da687a2862aeef/1629834775981/Celebration%2BDoc_08.24.21.pdf Salmon Without Rivers https://drakemag.com/jim-lichatowich/ 00:00 Costal Fog 01:00 Logging and Forest Management Concerns 01:35 Oregon's Water Quality Crisis 01:57 Salmon Recovery and Water Quality 03:13 The Importance of Monitoring Programs 04:31 Salmonid Life History Patterns 07:35 Impact of Hatcheries on Genetic Diversity 08:02 Challenges in Adaptive Management 10:13 Marbled Murrelet Conservation 13:00 Restoration Efforts and Watershed Health 17:22 The Role of Wilderness Areas 23:06 Protecting Important Bird Areas 26:36 Land and Sea Conservation Strategies 29:54 Adaptive Management in Road and Land Use 32:25 Aquatic Organism Passage Analysis 32:37 Understanding Lamprey: Ancient Creatures of the River 33:21 Lamprey's Life Cycle and Challenges 35:40 Investment in Oregon's Watersheds 36:45 The California Current: A Marine Serengeti 42:12 Oregon's Statewide Planning Goals 49:15 The Role of Beaver in Ecosystem Management 57:56 Challenges and Opportunities in Fish Conservation 59:39 Public Lands and Personal Reflections | |||
| 15 Sep 2024 | #6 - Logging, Politics, and Conservation: A Deep Dive with Andy Kerr | 01:08:05 | |
In this episode, I interview Andy Kerr, a main stay of conservation politics and public lands advocacy. Andy discusses his journey into forest conservation, reflecting on key moments in his career, such as the Save French Pete demonstration in 1970, and significant legislative milestones like the Endangered American Wilderness Act of 1978. Andy also highlights the impactful yet controversial Northwest Forest Plan, the role of the Forest Service, and the evolving nature of conservation efforts. He delves into the importance of wilderness, legislative advocacy, and the pressing need for a shift in how conservation movements must engage politically. Our conversation touches on various challenges, including the bureaucratic inertia of the Forest Service, the influence of the timber industry, and the ongoing fight for ecological integrity and public land conservation in the face of climate change and habitat destruction. 00:00 Introduction 01:04 The Fight for French Pete 02:32 Wilderness Legislation and Political Battles 04:27 Challenges in Wilderness Designation 06:02 Evolution of Conservation Efforts 07:26 The Impact of the Timber Wars 10:09 Current Conservation Landscape 12:52 The Role of Wilderness Study Areas 29:26 The Northwest Forest Plan 33:40 The Benefits of Forest Conservation 33:45 Congressional Responsibility and Forest Service Actions 34:27 Forest Service's Logging Justifications 35:01 National Old Growth Amendment 36:07 Forest Service's Logging Practices and Incentives 37:37 Misrepresentation and Deception in Forest Management 40:34 Political Realities vs. Ecological Realities 41:06 Challenges in Forest Conservation 45:14 Congressional Influence and Rural Representation 49:22 Conservation Movement and Political Engagement 58:04 Advisory Committees and Forest Plan Amendments 01:02:01 Conclusion | |||
| 05 Oct 2024 | #7 - Safeguarding the Wilderness Act | 00:57:21 | |
In this episode, I interview Katie Bilodeau and Kevin Proescholdt from Wilderness Watch. We discuss their organization's mission to preserve the integrity of the wilderness Act, legal enforcement, and challenges to wilderness across the political spectrums. Our conversation delves into the historical context and continuing relevance of wilderness protection, including specific legislative threats and proposals that undermine the integrity of the Wilderness Act itself. Kevin and Katie address misconceptions about wilderness and Native American history, the influence of industry on recreational activities within wilderness, and the environmental importance of preserving these lands. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 00:25 Backgrounds of Katie and Kevin 02:13 Wilderness Watch: Mission and Activities 06:08 The Importance of Wilderness 08:30 Native American Presence in Wilderness Areas 13:55 Challenges and Threats to Wilderness 18:30 Controversial Wilderness Bills and Provisions 21:16 Mountain Biking and Climbing in Wilderness 30:07 Sequoia Litigation and Wilderness Management 37:31 Current Legislative Efforts and Advocacy 52:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 28 Oct 2024 | #8 - Championing Utah's Wilderness and Wildlife | 01:19:35 | |
In this episode, I interview Kirk Robinson with the Western Wildlife Conservancy. Kirk shares his deep connection with Utah's environment, public lands, and history. We discuss the Great Salt Lake's environmental issues due to drought and human activities, highlighting the impacts of agriculture, mining, and urban growth. Kirk reflects on his family’s pioneer history, academic journey in philosophy, and passion for conservation. He details his involvement with organizations like the Utah Wilderness Association and Western Wildlife Conservancy, among others, emphasizing key conservation efforts such as the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone and public land management challenges. He delves into historical events like the Bear River Massacre, the Sagebrush Rebellion, and current disturbing legislative battles over control of public lands in Utah. Kirk also critiques the North American model of wildlife management, advocating for more democratic reforms. 02:51 Living in Salt Lake City 03:24 The Great Salt Lake's Water Crisis 04:05 Historical Background of the Great Salt Lake 05:26 Impact of Human Activities on the Great Salt Lake 10:03 Meeting Dave Foreman 11:21 Kirk's Background and Motivation 17:17 Founding of the Utah Wilderness Association 20:25 Challenges in the High Uintas Wilderness 23:04 The Legacy of Jim Bridger 24:12 Impact of Early Explorers on Western Expansion 26:38 The Bear River Massacre 29:32 Public Lands and Grazing Controversies 34:01 Modern Legislative Efforts and Controversies 42:41 Public Support for Public Lands in Utah 43:51 Legal and Legislative Challenges 45:06 Wildlife Management and Conservation Efforts 45:48 The Right to Hunt and Fish Act 47:33 Controversial Cougar Hunting Regulations 49:41 Western Wildlife Conservancy's Mission 58:36 The North American Model of Conservation 01:10:47 Personal Reflections on Public Lands 01:13:16 The Wind River Mountains: A Personal Journey 01:17:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 17 Nov 2024 | #9 - Behind the Scenes with Blue Mountains Biodiversity Project | 01:25:43 | |
In this episode I interview Karen Coulter co-founder of the Blue Mountains Biodiversity Project, reflecting on their work since 1991 in Oregon. We discus the escalation of timber sales from thousands to tens of thousands of acres and how logging practices have intensified over the years, often disguised under terms like 'vegetation management' or 'ecosystem resilency projects.' The conversation also delves into the ineffectiveness of current fire risk reduction strategies, the detrimental impacts of logging on ecosystems, and the misuse of terms to obscure the severity of logging activities. Karen talks about the importance of community involvement, field surveying, and the documentation of forest conditions as critical elements in their conservation efforts. She concludes with a call for a paradigm shift in forest management to preserve biodiversity and address climate change. 00:00 Introduction to Blue Mountains Biodiversity Project 00:15 Escalation of Timber Sales 01:06 Modern Logging Practices 02:20 Impact on Local Forests 02:44 Fire Risk Reduction Myths 05:07 Economic and Ecological Consequences 05:31 Personal Anecdotes and Reflections 07:00 Forest Plantations and Their Issues 08:24 Municipal Watershed Logging 20:53 The Role of Fire in Forest Management 32:37 Challenges in Forest Service Practices 43:29 Noise Pollution in Town 43:42 Explosive Incidents on the Land 44:12 Wildfire Experiences and Evacuation 45:27 Rejuvenation After Fires 46:22 Impact of Climate Change on Fires 48:27 Paradise Campfire and Its Aftermath 51:55 Logging and Forest Management 56:17 Livestock Grazing Issues 59:35 Field Surveying and Wildlife Encounters 01:03:49 Challenges in Forest Conservation 01:17:43 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Building 01:21:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 03 Dec 2024 | #10 - Beavers & Water Conservation: A Call for Leadership and Action on Public Lands | 01:34:18 | |
In this episode, I interview Dr. Suzanne Fouty and Kami Ellingson, both past Forest Service hydrologists, to talk about beavers. Suzanne and Kami share their insights and experiences about the significance of beavers in ecosystem restoration and water management. Our conversation covers the ecological benefits of beavers, such as water storage, flood mitigation, and habitat complexity, which are essential for both human and wildlife communities. We delve into the historical impacts on waterways caused by human activities and the potential for beaver restoration efforts to mitigate these effects. We also touch on the challenges and controversies surrounding beaver conservation, the practicality of beaver dam analogs, and the importance of protecting beavers on public lands in Oregon and beyond. | |||
| 15 Dec 2024 | #11 - The Truth Behind Forest Management: Dr. Chad Hanson on The Deception of Thinning and Fire Prevention | 01:26:33 | |
In this episode, I interview Dr. Chad Hanson of the John Muir Project. We discuss forest protection, fire ecology, and the deceptive practices of federal land management agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service. Chad critically examines the Forest Service's narrative around logging disguised as fuel reduction and forest health projects, revealing the detrimental effects on biodiversity, carbon emissions, and community safety. He advocates for a shift towards more honest public education and policy change, emphasizing the need to prioritize home hardening and defensible space over widespread logging. 00:44 The Pacific Crest Trail Revelation 04:01 The Deceptive Practices of the Forest Service 06:49 The Flaws in Forest Service Science 11:47 The Dangerous Lie of Logging for Fire Prevention 19:10 The Impact of Thinning Projects on Wildfires 35:50 Native American Cultural Burning 40:08 The Role of Controlled Burns in Community Safety 41:05 The Misconceptions and Risks of Prescribed Burns 43:38 Scientific Evidence Against Logging Before Burning 45:18 The Financial and Environmental Costs of Logging 46:37 The Shift in Scientific Consensus on Forest Management 50:47 Challenges Faced by Independent Scientists 54:56 Public Education and Policy Change for Forest Protection 01:00:57 Innovative Alternatives to Traditional Logging 01:17:41 The Importance of Public Lands and Final Thoughts | |||
| 04 Jan 2025 | #12 - Evaluating the Effectiveness and Ecological Impact of Forest Fuels Treatments | 01:42:37 | |
In this episode, I interview George Wuerthner, an independent advocate, ecologist, and author to explore what it means for fuels treatments to be effective in wildfire management. George challenges the prevailing assumption that preventing high-severity fires and minimizing tree deaths is inherently beneficial. He argues that high-severity fires create crucial habitats for numerous species, offering ecological benefits that are often overlooked. Using examples from various studies, George explains how snag forests and post-fire environments support a diverse range of native wildlife. He critiques current forest management practices, pointing out that thinning and prescribed burns are frequently ineffective under extreme fire conditions. Additionally, George delves into the historical context of fire suppression and logging, revealing how economic and political pressures influence the Forest Service's actions. Emphasizing the importance of protecting natural evolutionary processes, George advocates for reducing human intervention in forests and suggest focusing fire prevention efforts on areas around human communities. 00:00 Introduction to Fuels Treatment 00:35 Ecological Importance of High Severity Fires 02:42 Historical Fire Data and Large Fires 03:37 Challenges with Thinning and Prescribed Burns 04:48 Fire Behavior and Weather Conditions 07:29 Protecting Communities from Fires 13:26 Critique of Current Fire Management Policies 23:27 Issues with Scientific Studies and Funding 29:34 Collaboratives and Their Limitations 46:47 Misconceptions About Fire Regimes 53:21 Native American Burning 54:14 Localized Native Burning Practices 54:37 Climate's Role in Fire Patterns 56:39 Historical Fire Suppression 01:03:20 Forest Service and Fire Management 01:04:22 Economic and Political Pressures 01:10:49 Public Lands and Conservation 01:14:14 The Future of Forest Management 01:30:30 The Importance of Public Lands | |||
| 24 Jan 2025 | #13 - Wild Fish and Old Growth | 00:49:56 | |
In this episode, I interview Conrad Gowell with the Wild Fish Conservancy. Based in Washington, his organization uses science and law to protect wild fish and ecosystems. Conrad dives into the issues around fishery policies lagging behind scientific knowledge, particularly with endangered species like Chinook salmon. He highlights the challenges with mixed stock fisheries in Alaska and potential detrimental effects on fish populations. He also explores the impact of hatcheries, debates around the ESA listings, and the importance of old growth forests for biodiversity. He emphasizes systemic change and the balance between preserving ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices. As a river snorkeler, he shares personal reflections on the underwater world and the significance of public lands for biodiversity and cultural practices. 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:31 Wild Fish Conservancy's Mission 00:56 Challenges in Salmon Recovery 01:34 Impact of Alaskan Fisheries 03:14 Sustainable Fishing Practices 06:10 Hatcheries and Their Effects 07:02 Climate Change and Fish Populations 09:12 Steelhead and Salmon in the Pacific Northwest 23:16 Old Growth Forests and Ecosystem Interconnections 33:02 River Snorkeling Adventures 42:45 Public Lands and Conservation Legacy 46:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 05 Feb 2025 | #14 - Protecting New England’s Remaining Wildlands | 01:08:06 | |
In this episode, I interview Zack Porter who discusses the state of public lands and roadless areas in Vermont and across New England. He highlights the ongoing threats from logging and road construction, particularly in the Green Mountain and White Mountain National Forests. Zack emphasizes the ecological importance of these lands for clean water, carbon storage, biodiversity, and habitat protection. Our conversation touches on the challenges of preventing degradation, the inadequacies of current forest management practices, and the broader struggle to preserve wilderness areas. Zack also shares insights into his organization, Standing Trees, which is focused on stopping public land logging in New England, and the need for public support and action. https://www.standingtrees.org/ 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:07 Current State of Public Lands in Vermont 01:28 Challenges and Management of Roadless Areas 04:50 Comparisons with Other Regions 06:11 Logging Projects and Their Impact 09:07 Wilderness Act and Forest Service Policies 17:37 Public Response and Activism 20:16 Role of Environmental Organizations 31:09 Formation and Mission of Standing Trees 35:16 Personal Reflections on Wilderness 57:32 Call to Action and Conclusion | |||
| 26 Feb 2025 | #15 - How to Starve an Entire Ecosystem | 01:00:11 | |
In this episode, I interview Roger Long an ecologist and professor. We discuss his career trajectory that led him from computer programming to teaching and focusing specifically on the shrub steppe ecosystem. After switching careers and completing his master's and dissertation, Roger continued studying nitrogen cycling and the impact of cattle grazing on shrub steppe vegetation and wildlife. His findings underscore the depletion of nitrogen due to cattle grazing, which has critical implications for the ecosystem's health. Roger recalls his experiences with falconry, hunting, and fishing, which fueled his interest in how agricultural practices affect native wildlife and plant species. The episode concludes with Roger's perspectives on public lands and their significance to him, particularly in preserving natural habitats and promoting biodiversity. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:13 Transition from Programming to Field Work 01:41 Insights from Field Work and Career Shifts 04:08 Grazing Impact on Shrub Steppe Ecosystem 06:13 Nitrogen Cycling and Ecosystem Health 08:28 Challenges in Grazing Research 11:40 Forbs and Grazing Effects 15:39 Nutrient Transport and Ecosystem Impact 21:40 Kleiber Curve and Ungulate Metabolism 25:33 Dissertation Methodology and Findings 31:13 Transect Methodology and Initial Findings 32:21 Stable Isotopes and Nitrogen Content 35:19 Grazing Regimes and Sample Collection 35:44 Impact of Grazing on Vegetation 37:29 Wildlife and Ecosystem Interactions 41:23 Challenges in Sagebrush Restoration 47:45 Public Lands and Grazing Policies 53:40 Personal Reflections on Public Lands | |||
| 06 Mar 2025 | #16 - The F*ck Our Forests Act & D.C. Dysfunction | 01:14:10 | |
In this episode, I interview Jennifer Mamola with the John Muir Project. Jenn discusses insights and frustrations with current wildfire policy in Washington, D.C. She stresses the importance of shifting focus from backcountry forest management to home hardening and defensible spaces around communities. Criticizing ineffective policies like the Fix Our Forests Act, she highlights the ecological necessity of allowing fire-adapted ecosystems to regenerate naturally. Jenn advocates for a community-out approach and better disaster mitigation funding, calling for Congress to adopt practical, science-backed solutions for true wildfire resilience. https://johnmuirproject.org/ Oppose the "Fix Our Forests Act!" https://johnmuirproject.org/take-action/#/14 or https://www.westernwatersheds.org/actionalerts/tell-your-senators-to-oppose-the-fix-our-forests-act/ 00:00 Introduction: Life in Washington D.C. 00:45 Challenges in Wildfire Mitigation 02:50 The Importance of Home Hardening 04:53 Misconceptions and Misinformation 06:09 Community-Centered Solutions 07:19 The Role of Federal Agencies 29:55 The Fix Our Forests Act 36:24 Natural Regeneration After Forest Fires 38:07 The Importance of Preservation Over Conservation 39:26 Challenges in Forest Management Policies 40:55 Political and Public Perception Issues 53:01 The Role of Prescribed Burns and Cultural Practices 59:38 The Need for Honest Conversations and Accountability 01:05:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 16 Mar 2025 | #17 - Biden’s Public Lands Scorecard and Legacy | 01:09:54 | |
In this episode, I welcome back Andy Kerr to discuss Biden’s public lands record and legacy. We also discuss the contrasting environmental policies and actions early in the Trump 2.0 years. Andy delves into Biden's legacy on public lands, examining specific actions like the reinstatement of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante national monument boundaries and the broader issue of whether a president can undo national monument proclamations. The discussion draws attention to the procedural and legal challenges involved in reversing conservation regulations. There is also a critical examination of Biden's adherence to the 30 by 30 conservation initiative and the effectiveness of mineral withdrawals. Andy discusses a controversial land exchange in Alaska and the overall performance of the Biden administration in protecting public lands, comparing it to Trump's administration. He concludes with insights into the political landscape's impact on conservation efforts and the need for stronger advocacy and politically strategic actions from conservationists. https://www.andykerr.net/ 00:57 Biden's Public Lands Record and Legacy 02:53 Trump's Environmental Policies and Actions 06:17 Legal and Procedural Challenges in Conservation 15:05 Biden's 30 by 30 Conservation Initiative 29:08 Conservation Leases and Bureaucratic Challenges 35:37 Conservation Efforts and Political Challenges 36:27 Mineral Withdrawals and Federal Land Policies 40:13 Biden Administration's Conservation Actions 41:45 Alaska Land Exchange Controversy 47:37 Public Lands and Renewable Energy Development 01:00:52 Northwest Forest Plan and Conservation Issues 01:07:37 Final Thoughts on Conservation and Politics | |||
| 30 Mar 2025 | #18 - America's Red Rock Wilderness Act | 00:44:05 | |
In this episode, I interview Terri Martin with the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance (SUWA). The podcast highlights the reintroduction of the America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act, which seeks to protect over 8 million acres of public lands in Southern Utah from exploitation. The discussion includes the significance of the act within the broader '30 by 30' initiative aimed at conserving 30% of land and ocean areas by 2030. Topics covered include the role of local control versus federal oversight, the involvement and support of Native American tribes in wilderness designations, the concept of landscape connectivity for wildlife movement, and the climate benefits of protecting these lands. Terri emphasizes the critical role of citizen activism in driving conservation efforts. The episode reiterates the importance of these lands for future generations and the need for ongoing advocacy and legislative support. https://suwa.org/ask-your-members-of-congress-to-cosponsor-americas-red-rock-wilderness-act-2/ https://suwa.org/ 00:56 Breaking News: America's Red Rock Wilderness Act 03:43 The History and Success of SUWA 05:35 Challenges and Strategies in Wilderness Advocacy 08:14 Local Control vs. National Interest 11:45 30 by 30 Campaign and Wilderness 17:43 Native American Tribes and Wilderness Designation 24:07 America's Red Rock Wilderness Act 31:42 Climate Change and Wilderness Protection 40:14 Conclusion and Call to Action | |||
| 01 Apr 2025 | #19 - Public Domain: A Conversation w/ Investigative Journalist Jimmy Tobias | 00:42:18 | |
In this episode, I speak with Jimmy Tobias, a seasoned investigative journalist. Jimmy delves into his journey from working summertimes in wilderness in Montana to his current focus on public lands journalism. He discusses his deep passion for public lands issues, the influence of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in uncovering unethical behavior and corruption within governmental agencies, and the critical role of investigative journalism in holding power to account. We discuss the backgrounds of new political appointees at Interior and DOGE tinkering. Jimmy introduces his new project, Public Domain Media, which aims to provide robust investigative coverage on public lands and wildlife issues. Our discussion also highlights the political and environmental challenges facing public lands, including privatization efforts and budget cuts, and emphasizes the importance of public engagement and legal transparency. https://www.publicdomain.media/ 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:08 Tobias's Background and Passion for Public Lands 01:17 Jimmy's Experience with Western Public Lands 03:40 The Importance of Investigative Journalism 07:13 FOIA and Its Impact 13:13 Public Domain Media Project 18:24 Challenges Facing Public Lands 27:43 The Privatization Threat 35:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts | |||
| 04 Apr 2025 | #20 - Fighting for Endemic Species in the Great Basin w/ Patrick Donnelly | 00:52:23 | |
In this episode, I interview Patrick Donnelly with the Center for Biological Diversity along the banks of the Amargosa River in California near Death Valley National Park. Patrick discusses the historical and ongoing impact of human activity, such as mining, and the modern-day pressures of the lithium boom in Nevada. He discusses how the Center is fighting to protect endemic species and the water resources that sustain life in the face of increasing industrial interests. We discuss specific legal battles against lithium mines and the impact of geothermal energy projects on biodiversity. Patrick also covers the checkered history of land and wilderness protection in Nevada, and the California Desert Protection Act of 1994. https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/
03:49 Unique Species and their Adaptations 11:52 Historical and Cultural Significance of the Amargosa River Watershed 16:20 The Center for Biological Diversity: Mission and Activities 18:49 Lithium Boom and Mining Challenges in Nevada 26:03 The Impact of Lithium Mining on Tiehm's buckwheat 27:57 Water Usage in Lithium Mining 29:50 Direct Lithium Extraction at the Salton Sea 32:36 Geothermal Energy and Its Environmental Impact 35:26 The Fight Against Geothermal Projects 39:13 Nevada Lands Bills 46:23 Greenlink North: A Threat to Nevada's Sagebrush Country 49:27 Personal Reflections on Public Lands | |||
| 09 Apr 2025 | #21 - America’s Public Lands Under Attack w/ Wes Siler | 01:14:42 | |
In this episode, I interview Wes Siler. Wes delves into the pressing issues surrounding America's public lands, discussing how privatization efforts threaten public access and ownership. Key examples include the Yellowstone Club, the Crazy Mountains land heist, corner crossing, state efforts to wrest control over public lands, and federal public land sales under the guise of "affordable housing." Wes also addresses broader political failures and the adverse effects of defunding federal land management agencies, such as the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. We discuss the necessity of updating multiple use laws and the role of public lands in supporting a healthy democracy and sustainable ecosystems. Our conversation underscores the significance of protecting public lands from corporate and political elites to maintain their ecological and societal value. 00:35 Moving to Montana: 01:27 Comparing Europe and America: Nature and Wildlife 06:36 Public Lands and Privatization Concerns 08:02 The Yellowstone Club and Land Access Issues 10:23 Corner Crossing and Public Access 23:08 Political and Social Commentary 35:13 Public Lands and Equal Access 35:30 Balancing Interests: Profit and Preservation 37:35 Challenges with Current Laws and Corporate Influence 40:59 The Misconception of Affordable Housing on Public Lands 48:27 State vs. Federal Management of Public Lands 53:43 Economic Benefits of Federal Land Management 56:29 Impact of Defunding Federal Land Agencies 01:05:58 Personal Reflections and Concerns https://wessiler.substack.com/ https://www.outsideonline.com/byline/wes-siler/ https://www.govexec.com/management/2025/04/some-usda-rif-plans-take-shape-department-warns-employees-major-cuts/404247/ https://www.truthdig.com/articles/america-the-failed-state/ https://substack.com/home/post/p-160580019 | |||