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Russ McSpadden

Russ McSpadden Profile Photo

Russ McSpadden is the Southwest Conservation Advocate with the Center for Biological Diversity. He plays an integral role in documenting the ecological and cultural impacts of U.S.-Mexico border wall policies. Russ focuses on protecting endangered species and preserving critical habitats, especially in the desert landscapes of the borderlands. He contributes valuable insights through his fieldwork, capturing the pressing issues surrounding border wall construction and its repercussions on the environment and indigenous communities. Russ is also an accomplished poet, having published a book titled "Borderlings," reflecting his deep connection to and concern for the borderlands.

16
May 15, 2026

S5E16: The Double Border Wall: A New Environmental Catastrophe

Russ McSpadden documents plans for a second wall through Organ Pipe and Cabeza Prieta, including damage to sacred geoglyphs, groundwater and wildlife habitat made possible by sweeping REAL ID Act waivers.
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