In this compelling episode of 90 Miles from Needles, host Chris Clarke engages in a deep conversation with Nick Graver as they explore the pressing challenges facing Joshua Trees and desert conservation efforts amid climate change and governmental policy swings. Recorded during the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history, this episode highlights the hurdles that scientists and conservationists face in protecting vulnerable species against the backdrop of political instability.

The discussion spotlights key topics such as the impact of invasive species on desert ecosystems, the critical role of the Joshua Tree as a keystone species, and how recent wildfire patterns threaten these iconic symbols of the desert. Graver elaborates on the intricate science behind population modeling and stresses the urgency of coordinated governmental and scientific efforts to preserve these fragile landscapes. As federal support becomes erratic, this episode captures the essence of modern environmental advocacy and the relentless pursuit of conservation in uncertain times.

Key Takeaways:

• The Joshua Tree faces significant threats from climate change, especially due to invasive grasses and increased occurrences of human-caused wildfires.

• There is a pressing need for diverse partnerships between governmental bodies, researchers, and indigenous communities to develop effective conservation strategies.

• Federal and state policy dynamics, including the effects of government shutdowns, severely impact the implementation of conservation efforts.

• Understanding the life history and reproductive patterns of Joshua Trees provides crucial insights for developing long-term conservation measures.

• Despite political barriers, continuous advocacy and research are critical to ensuring the survival of Joshua Trees and the broader desert ecosystem.

Notable Quotes:

• "We've known for 15 or 20 years now that Joshua Trees in particular were threatened by climate change."

• "If there's nobody there to hear those ideas and implement those changes, then it's all pointless."

• "Joshua Trees occupy a substantial area in four U.S. states... and is a critically important species."

• "The trees that we plant in 2025... by the time that those trees grow to adulthood, it will already be 2070."

Resources:

• 90 Miles from Needles Website

• Burton Frasher's 1926 photo of the "U2 Joshua Tree"

• 1980 shot of the same tree

For a deeper understanding of the current state of desert conservation and the challenges faced by Joshua Trees, listen to the full episode.

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About the Guest:

Andrea Hoerr is a committed environmental advocate working with Save the Scenic Santa Ritas and Great Old Broads for Wilderness in Tucson, Arizona. Her work involves fighting against environmentally detrimental projects, such as huge mining operations and the development of border walls in biodiverse regions. Andrea, also known as Dre, uses her expertise as an Arizona Master Naturalist to engage in preserving wilderness areas and fostering grassroots efforts for environmental conservation.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke engages with Andrea Hoerr, a fervent activist for desert conservation and biodiversity protection. Hoerr highlights the ecological threats posed by the potential construction of a 27-mile border wall through the San Rafael Valley in Southern Arizona. The episode covers the rich biodiversity of the region, including its status as a biodiversity hotspot and migration corridor for a variety of species.

The conversation dives deep into the importance of the San Rafael Valley's grasslands, shedding light on the impending consequences of border wall construction, such as disrupted animal migration, waterway destruction, and habitat fragmentation. Hoerr underscores the collective resistance against these developments and invites listeners to a peaceful rally on November 15 aimed at raising awareness and protecting the valley. By presenting comprehensive anecdotes and first-hand experiences, this episode serves as a powerful call to action for greater environmental advocacy.

Key Takeaways:

• The San Rafael Valley in Southern Arizona is a critical biodiversity hotspot, threatened by a proposed 27-mile border wall.
• Andrea Hoerr and her fellow activists are organizing a rally on November 15th to raise awareness about the ecological impacts of the border wall.
• The proposed wall will disrupt animal migration corridors, hamper natural waterways, and result in habitat fragmentation.
• Biodiversity is vital not only to the environment but also to national security, as recognized by various institutions, including the military.
• Engaging with and bearing witness to the land helps solidify community commitment to environmental conservation efforts.

Notable Quotes:

• "Biodiversity is important to the health and well-being of not only humans, but all the 10 million species that are interconnected."
• "We acted as if we can do whatever we want without any concern for the repercussions."
• "You cannot really grasp the magnitude of what's happening here until you get there, until you bear witness for yourself."
• "Art, as you know, is such an important way to reach people."
• "We choose to try not to paint everyone with a broad brush. There’s a lot more hearts and minds that can be won over."

Resources:

• Save the Scenic Santa Ritas
• Great Old Broads for Wilderness
• Instagram: Rally for the Valley
• Andrea Hoerr on Bluesky
• Website: Border Wall Resistance

Tune in to the full episode for an inspiring and detailed exploration of the San Rafael Valley, its invaluable ecology, and the community efforts to protect it. Stay connected for more stories and insights from "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast."

Podcast episode artwork courtesy Sky Island Alliance.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke takes listeners into the complex worlds of wildlife policy and desert preservation.

The episode features Mandy Culbertson, Communications Director at Wildlife for All, discussing the implications of state and federal-level wildlife governance on biodiversity and the environment, particularly within the Southwest's desert landscapes. She explains how Wildlife for All is working to reform state wildlife governance by including more democratic processes and scientific approaches to benefit ecosystems and wildlife populations. Mandy provides an insightful analysis of the current state of wildlife management in the Southwest and beyond, highlighting the disparity in effectiveness among different states.

With a critical eye on states like Arizona and Montana, Chris and Mandy discuss pressing issues such as the militarization of the US-Mexico border and its detrimental effects on wildlife. Mandy elaborates on how public pressure can influence policy decisions, citing recent victories and ongoing struggles in wildlife advocacy.

The conversation also highlights the crippling impact of the recent federal government shutdown on wildlife protection efforts, especially for endangered species like the Mexican gray wolf.

Key Takeaways:

Wildlife for All's Mission: The organization focuses on transforming state wildlife governance to protect biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems with an ethical and democratic approach.

Southwestern Biodiversity: The American Southwest is a biodiversity hotspot facing unique challenges such as habitat fragmentation, climate change, and urban development pressures.

State Wildlife Management: States like Arizona exhibit problematic wildlife management practices, often putting political ideology and special interests over scientific and ethical considerations.

Impact of Border Militarization: Increased infrastructure and enforcement along the US-Mexico border significantly disrupt wildlife corridors, affecting numerous species.

Federal and State Dynamics: The federal government shutdown exacerbates challenges in managing and protecting wildlife.

Notable Quotes:

"Most folks don't realize that state agencies, state wildlife agencies, are responsible for the vast majority of wildlife management in this country." — Mandy Culbertson

"Protecting biodiversity and restoring healthy ecosystems requires a more ethical and democratic and just approach to wildlife policy." — Mandy Culbertson

"The war on wildlife isn't separate from the crisis of democracy that we're seeing right now. It's a symptom of the same disease." — Mandy Culbertson

"Public pressure matters. These state wildlife commission meetings are a great place to get involved." — Mandy Culbertson

Resources:

Wildlife for All Website: https://wildlifeforall.us

Wildlife For All's Wildlife Advocacy Toolkit: https://wildlifeforall.us/take-action/advocacy-toolkit/

No Kings Movement: https://nokings.org

Permission to Pollute Act (bill text): https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3898/text

Public Lands Rule Public Comment (ends November 10): Engage in the ongoing public comment to help keep non-consumptive use of public lands (like hiking, camping, wildlife watching) on an equal policy footing with mining and logging. For more info: https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-proposes-rescind-public-lands-rule-restoring-balanced-multiple-use

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.