S4E27: Episode 100 | 1. Poetry and Plants with Cameron Mayer

About the Guest(s):
Morgan Sjogren:
Morgan Sjogren is an esteemed writer specializing in Western lands and water narratives. She intricately weaves themes of history, culture, science, and adventure into her compelling storytelling. Morgan is the acclaimed author of Path of A Walkthrough, Colliding Legacies of Glen Canyon, published by Torrey House Press in 2023, and a 2025 Utah Book Award winner. Her works have graced numerous prestigious outlets like Archaeology Southwest, Arizona Highways, Fast Company, Runner's World, and Sierra Magazine. Morgan's dedication to environmental advocacy through public discourse has been recognized with notable grants like the 2022 Water Desk Grant and the 2024 Charles Red Center for Western Studies Independent Research and Creative Works Award. Additionally, she shares her explorations through her Substack, Wild Words, where she delves into her desert musings and broader environmental concerns.
n this landmark 100th episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, host Chris Clark celebrates with a treasure trove of content breaking into six segments. This episode features Cameron Mayer, contributing his passion for the desert through eloquent poetry readings. Mayer shares his profound connection to the Mojave and surrounding areas and highlights his work with Friends of the Amargosa Basin aimed at increasing protection for the unique watershed.

Listeners are treated to Mayer's evocative poetry that captures the mystical allure of the desert flora, such as the Honey Mesquite and Mojave Aster. The discussion focuses on the importance of appreciating and conserving often-overlooked desert landscapes, with eloquent passages from Mayer’s writings infusing the episode with introspective reflections. Hear how Mayer's work and art bring attention to the majestic beauty and delicate balance of desert ecosystems, with a special focus on Nevada's understated splendor.

### Key Takeaways:

*   Cameron Mayer shares his poetic tributes to desert plants, such as Honey Mesquite and Mojave Aster.
*   Mayer's work weaves together poetry, botany, and photography to highlight the beauty of desert environments.
*   Mayer serves as Program Director for Friends of the Amargosa Basin, advocating for the conservation of this critical area.
*   Personal experiences in Nevada’s Paranigate Valley spotlight the diverse, hidden treasures of desert landscapes.
*   Listeners are urged to consider the deeper connections and motivations behind desert conservation efforts.

Notable Quotes: 

• "Oh, the life giver, sustainer of cultures more than human alike."
• "For those of you who know the Great Basin, Highway 93, it goes all the way to Idaho. It's wonderful."
• "Roadside rock side, any side of a valley, of a river."
• " I will tell you, trying to tent camp in 13 degree weather really does build character maybe, but anyways, it's an experience. "
• "Traveling the basins and ranges with no clear method for healing."

Resources:

• Friends of the Amargosa Basin (https://friendsoftheamargosabasin.org/): Ongoing efforts to establish a national monument status for the Amargosa Basin to protect its unique ecosystems.
• Wildflowers of Shoshone and Tecopa: An Intuitive Guide : A book authored by Cameron Mayer, available locally at the Shoshone Museum and other local outlets.

Listeners are invited to immerse themselves in the full episode to further appreciate the stunning work and poetic voice of Cameron Mayer. Stay connected for more insightful content from "90 Miles from Needles" as we continue to explore and advocate for desert protection.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Like this episode? Leave a review!

Check out our desert bookstore, buy some podcast merch, or check out our nonprofit mothership, the Desert Advocacy Media Network!