Luke Basulto
Luke Basulto has deep roots in the Mojave Desert. He was born and raised in Barstow, California and grew up exploring the desert mountains around his little hometown. Luke has worked for numerous environmental agencies and organizations over the course of his career including the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, Mojave Desert Land Trust, and The Wildlands Conservancy. In addition to serving as President of the board of the Desert Advocacy Media Network, is currently the California Desert Program Manager for the National Parks Conservation Association in Joshua Tree, CA, where he lives with his partner Gabrielle and their daughter Isabelle.
22
July 24, 2024
S3E22: Debunking Snake Misconceptions
Desert snakes inspire fascination, fear, and a remarkable amount of misinformation. Chris Clarke and Lucas Basulto trade snake stories while examining some of the misconceptions surrounding these important reptiles. They discuss snake behavior, bites and appropriate responses, road mortality, habitat protection, and how to coexist safely with snakes rather than treating every encounter as a threat. Along the way, they offer resources for identifying snakes throughout the desert Southwest and explain why these often-maligned animals matter to desert ecosystems.
Guest: Luke Basulto
3
Jan. 29, 2024
S3E3: The Fight Against Flamingo 640; How a Community Stood Up to Big Development
When developers proposed a large glamping project called Flamingo 640 in California's Mojave Desert, local residents organized to stop it. Chris Clarke talks with Caroline Partamian, Justin Merino, and Luke Basulto about concerns over wildlife, traffic, noise, and the project's effects on the surrounding rural community. They recount how neighbors organized, challenged the proposal, and ultimately prevailed—a case study in how local activism can successfully shape land-use decisions and protect desert communities.
Guests: Caroline Partamian , Luke Basulto
4
Feb. 18, 2023
S2E4: Protecting Wonder Valley
Wonder Valley is more than a quiet Mojave community—it's a place where residents are working together to defend the character of their desert home. This episode explores the challenges facing Wonder Valley, from industrial development to land-use conflicts, and highlights how local organizing can help protect both communities and the landscapes that surround them.
Guest: Luke Basulto
21
Nov. 7, 2022
S1E21: The Desert Tortoise Still Has a Chance
Despite decades of habitat loss and declining populations, there are still reasons for optimism about the Mojave Desert tortoise. This episode explores the threats facing this iconic reptile, the conservation efforts showing promise, and why protecting connected desert habitat remains essential to its recovery.
Guests: Tim Shields , Luke Basulto