Episodes

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 th...

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 sit...

In this 50th episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke reflects on the importance of protecting the desert and the need for more desert activists. He discusses the challenges faced by the desert, including resource extraction and the loss of news media coverage. Clarke emphasizes the role of the podcast in providing information and inspiring listeners to become committed activists. With only 100 recurring donors supporting the podcast, he calls for more support to expand the reach an...

In this episode host Chris Clarke shares his recent visit to the Amargosa Basin, highlighting the stunning wildflower bloom and the importance of supporting local communities. He also presents three captivating desert stories, including the self-awareness of bursage plants, the connection between humans and coyotes, and the deceptive allure of desert magic. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles," the Desert Protection podcast, we journey with the host to the shores of the rapidly shrinking Great Salt Lake and the steps of the Utah State Capitol. We delve into the urgent efforts led by advocates and scientists to save the critical ecosystem of the lake and protect species like the Wilson's Phalarope through the Endangered Species Act. The discussion highlights the worrying state of the Great Salt Lake, its d...

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke reflects on the significance of the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada. He shares personal stories of his deep connection to the desert landscape and the transformative power it holds. The episode also includes excerpts from the ceremony celebrating the monument's designation and the efforts of local tribes and activists. With stunning descriptions and heartfelt anecdotes, Clarke emphasizes the impo...

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke interviews Myles Traphagen, a conservationist and scientist working with The Wildlands Network. They discuss the impact of the border wall on wildlife and the environment, as well as the artificial humanitarian crisis at the US-Mexico border. Traphagen highlights the need for a more humane and constructive approach to immigration and emphasizes the importance of understanding the ecological consequences of border policies. Tune in to ...

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of the Chihuahuan Desert in this episode of "90 Miles from Needles, the Desert Protection Podcast." Host Chris Clarke explores the challenges of conserving this vast desert, primarily located in Mexico but also extending into Texas and New Mexico. He speaks with Janae Reneaud Field, Kathia Gonzalez, and Rocio Ronquillo from El Paso's Frontera Land Alliance, who share their efforts to protect the Castner Range National Monument and educate the community about ...

In this episode, host Chris Clarke shares an excerpt from his book in progress about the Joshua tree, the signature plant of the Mojave Desert. He reflects on his experiences in the desert, the balance of nature, and the kinship of all life. With vivid descriptions of the desert landscape and personal anecdotes, Clarke explores the connection between humans and the natural world. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informati...

Join host Chris Clarke as he explores the proposed Great Bend of the Gila National Monument with advocates Skylar Begay and Mike Quigley. They discuss the importance of protecting this pristine Sonoran Desert landscape, rich in cultural and natural history. With the threat of encroaching development and destructive recreation, the establishment of the monument would safeguard significant cultural sites and provide habitat for endangered species like the Sonoran pronghorn. Become a desert defe...

In this episode, host Chris Clarke speaks with Patrick Donnelly of the Center for Biological Diversity about a significant victory in the Nevada Supreme Court regarding water rights. They discuss the case of Coyote Springs, a proposed city in the desert that would have a detrimental effect on the Muddy River and its endangered species. The court ruling sets a precedent for managing groundwater and surface water as a single resource, potentially affecting other areas in Nevada facing similar wate...

In this episode, host Chris Clarke discusses the successful fight against a proposed glamping project called Flamingo 640 in the California desert. Clarke is joined by community member Caroline Partamian, former president of the Homestead Valley Community Council Justin Merino, and Luke Basulto from the National Parks Conservation Association. They discuss the negative impacts the project would have had on wildlife, traffic, and the peaceful atmosphere of the area. Through community organizing a...

The Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Utility-Scale Solar energy development is shaping the future of solar in the western United States. In this episode, host Chris Clarke explores the different alternatives proposed in the draft and their potential impact on public lands. He discusses the exclusion areas, the size of land available for solar development, and the importance of considering rooftop solar as an alternative. Listeners are encouraged to comment on the draft and m...

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke introduces four books that will challenge preconceptions about the desert. The first book, "The Arid Lands: History, Power, and Knowledge" by Diana K. Davis, challenges the notion that deserts are wastelands in need of development. The second book, "Peoples of a Sonoran Desert Oasis" by Jared Orsi, explores the history and culture of Quito Bacito and the impact of border policies on the oasis. The third ...

Desert bighorn sheep are among the Southwest's most iconic animals, but their future depends on protecting habitat and reducing threats such as disease transmission from domestic livestock. This episode explores the biology of these remarkable climbers, the conservation challenges they face, and the efforts underway to ensure they remain part of the desert landscape for generations to come.

Independent journalism and grassroots conservation both depend on engaged communities. This special Giving Tuesday episode explains how listener support helps sustain 90 Miles from Needles and the Desert Advocacy Media Network while reflecting on why independent voices remain essential to protecting the deserts of the American Southwest.

Artist, naturalist, and bestselling author Obi Kaufmann joins the podcast to discuss California's deserts, public lands, and the stories maps can tell. Together we explore how art, science, and conservation can help people see familiar landscapes with fresh eyes—and inspire them to protect what they discover.

Protecting the desert can be emotionally difficult work. This deeply personal episode reflects on grief, disappointment, and resilience in conservation, exploring how people continue fighting for the landscapes they love even after setbacks and losses. It's a conversation about hope as much as hardship.

The saguaro cactus is an enduring symbol of the American Southwest, yet its life story is even more remarkable than its silhouette. This episode explores the biology, ecology, and cultural significance of the Sonoran Desert's iconic giant, revealing how saguaros support countless other species throughout their centuries-long lives.

Every spring, brilliant orange globemallow flowers brighten the desert landscape, but their importance goes far beyond their beauty. Learn about one of the Southwest's most recognizable native wildflowers, its role in supporting pollinators and wildlife, and the ways native plants help desert ecosystems recover and thrive.

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most extraordinary desert oases on Earth, home to crystal-clear springs and species found nowhere else. This episode explores the refuge's unique ecology, the conservation challenges it faces, and why protecting desert water is vital for preserving biodiversity throughout the Southwest.

For generations, Americans have been taught that deserts are barren wastelands waiting to be developed. This episode challenges those misconceptions by exploring what science—and the desert itself—actually tells us about biodiversity, resilience, and why changing our understanding of these landscapes is essential to their protection.

Across the Southwest, Indigenous communities are leading efforts to protect sacred places, public lands, and cultural traditions. In this episode, Native advocates discuss the connections between environmental stewardship, tribal sovereignty, and the enduring relationship between people and the desert landscape.

A desert superbloom is one of nature's most spectacular events, transforming dry landscapes into seas of wildflowers after the right combination of rain and temperature. This episode explores what causes these rare displays, why they don't happen every wet year, and how visitors can experience a superbloom while helping protect the fragile habitats that make it possible.