Episodes

Dive into the fascinating history and migration of the Joshua tree, the extinction of the Shasta ground sloth, and the impact of invasive species. Chris recounts stories from Cima, California, amidst tales of nature's transformation and personal change. Discover the challenges faced by desert ecosy…

Chris Clarke and guest Ruth Nolan discuss a controversial LA Times piece about an art fair aiming to turn the desert region into an upscale haven akin to the Hamptons, and the cultural and environmental impacts of such developments

Chris discusses into the challenges facing desert journalism amid dwindling traditional media and the rise of digital consumption. He explores the shift from shallow to deep journalism, emphasizing the need for thorough reporting that considers desert systems rather than isolated events. The episod…

Chris Clarke and Laiken Jordahl of the Center for Biological Diversity, discuss the campaign against proposed border wall expansions in the Big Bend region of West Texas. The episode explores the wall's potential impact on communities, ecosystems, and wildlife. Discover grassroots efforts uniting d…

Join host Chris Clarke on "90 Miles from Needles" as he talks with Caroline Tracey about her latest book, "Salt Lakes: An Unnatural History." Explore themes of salt lake conservation, colonialism, and queer theory, revealing unique insights into these fragile desert ecosystems. The discussion touch…

In this episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris shares a personal perspective on the legacy of Cesar Chavez and discusses the impact of recent revelations on the progressive movement. Chris is a seasoned journalist and advocate for desert protection with a robust history of addre…

Chris Clarke hosts a timely conversation with Dr. Jackie Grant, Executive Director of Grand Staircase Escalante Partners, about the potential impacts of a new congressional effort to overturn the monument's management plan. The management plan's erosion could threaten Grand Staircase Escalante Nati…

Chris discusses an unexpected brief pause in regular programming due to a recent house fire.

Desert biologist Tim Shields joins 90 Miles from Needles to discuss efforts to protect the Mojave Desert's tortoise population. Shields updates on using non-lethal lasers to deter ravens, major tortoise predators, and shares insights into the challenges posed by the invasive schismus grass. He reve…

Journalist Zak Podmore joins us to explore nuclear waste storage proposals in southeastern Utah, revealing concerns about the environmental and cultural impact on indigenous lands. Podmore discusses his book "Life After Dead Pool," detailing the transformation of Glen Canyon as Lake Powell diminish…

Celebrating a historic milestone for the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe in Death Valley, this episode uncovers the journey from historical challenges to today's collaborations with the National Park Service.

Mary O'Brien from Project 1100 joins us to discuss the often-overlooked impact of honeybee apiaries on public lands, highlighting the threat they pose to native bee species and their critical role in desert ecosystems. The episode explores the unique biodiversity of deserts, emphasizing the irrepla…

Join host Chris Clarke as he explores the inspiring vision of establishing a transboundary network of protected areas across the US-Mexico border with guest Rick LoBello, Education and Conservation Director at the El Paso Zoo. Chris and Rick discuss efforts to connect Big Bend National Park with ne…

Joined by guest Gilberto Manzanarez from Valle Imperial Resiste, Chris explores the community's opposition to an AI data center due to potential environmental impacts, including noise pollution and increased water usage. Despite promises of economic growth, residents face uncertainty regarding prop…

Chris Clarke examines the concept of desertification and its historical and ideological roots. The episode distinguishes between genuine ecological degradation and the misconception that deserts are inherently damaged landscapes. Highlighting insights from geographer Diana K. Davis, it challenges c…

Reflecting on the erosion of environmental laws, rampant industrial proposals, and the clash between ideology and science, this episode urges careful listening to the desert's fading voices. As the podcast enters its fifth year, Clarke calls for community support to continue reporting on these vita…

Chris explores the environmental impact of copper mining in Arizona, focusing on the controversial Copper World project in the Santa Rita Mountains. Chris interviews John Dougherty, Executive Director of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas, discussing the ecological destruction, water issues, and community…

Chris explores truth in an AI-driven age, and questions the reliability of what we perceive as real, using AI-generated media as an example. He discusses the importance of deserts in maintaining truth, reflecting on how they convey authentic facts resistant to societal distortions. The importance o…

Chris Clarke discusses the challenges facing Joshua trees and desert ecosystems with conservation biologist Nick Graver. They explore how climate change, invasive species, and increased human activity threaten these iconic landscapes. Graver, a graduate student at UC Riverside, shares insights on a…

Join host Chris Clarke on 90 Miles from Needles as he speaks with Andrea Hoerr of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas and Great Old Broads for Wilderness. They discuss the rich biodiversity of Arizona's San Rafael Valley and the controversy surrounding new border wall construction. Listeners are invited to…

Join host Chris Clarke for an insightful discussion on wildlife protection and democratic governance with Mandy Culbertson from Wildlife for All. Explore the varying effectiveness of state wildlife policies across the Southwest, the threat of border militarization to biodiversity, and current polit…

With reduced staffing, National Parks in the American Deserts face risks of vandalism and inadequate visitor safety.

Chris Clarke embarks on a journey to the Chihuahuan Desert Fiesta in El Paso, sharing insights from his travels and engaging encounters. He highlights the importance of desert protection, discussing his experiences with passionate advocates across diverse desert communities. Chris explores the sign…

Chris Clarke and Mike Ketterer explore the fallout from nuclear testing and its unexpected impact on regions considered "safe," like Inyo and Mono counties in California. Discover the surprising results of isotopic testing and the potential health legacy of communities near past nuclear test sites.