90 Miles from Needles: the Desert Protection Podcast
Join desert environmental journalist Chris Clarke as he explores the challenges and opportunities of the American Southwest's fragile but vibrant ecosystems. Hear engaging interviews with experts, activists, and advocates on conservation, land management, and environmental justice. And we take roadtrips!
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March 18, 2025
S4E8: Plan Sonora: The New Face of Green Colonialism
Chris Clarke hosts an engaging discussion with Caroline Tracey, a journalist with The Border Chronicle, on the environmental and political challenges surrounding Plan Sonora, Mexico's ambitious renewable energy project. They examine the complex issues of lithium mining, solar and natural gas develo…
March 11, 2025
S4E7: The Southwest's Hidden Urban Histories with Kyle Paoletta
Join host Chris Clarke for an insightful discussion with journalist Kyle Paoletta about his book "American Oasis: Finding the Future in the Cities of the Southwest." Explore surprising histories and contemporary challenges of cities like Albuquerque, Las Vegas, and El Paso, and their role in shapin…
March 4, 2025
S4E6: The Desert Speaks Out
Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into two pivotal events illuminating the current challenges and triumphs in desert conservation efforts. The episode captures the essence o...
Feb. 26, 2025
S4E5: DOGE Layoffs Are Sabotaging Public Lands
Episode Summary In this episode, we discuss the recent layoffs affecting the National Park Service and other land management agencies. Featuring Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association, the episode look...
Feb. 18, 2025
S4E4: Other Podcasts You Should Check Out
This week, Chris shifts focus to recommending several podcasts that align with the mission of desert protection and conservation. Marissa Ortega Welch’s “How Wild” challenges conventional perceptions of wilderness by explorin...
Feb. 11, 2025
Teaser: a quick update
In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris provides listeners with an update on the state of the podcast. Despite a minor setback due to illness, Chris emphasizes the importance of authentic desert protection content w...
Jan. 29, 2025
S4E3: Ivanpah Solar to shut down
Episode Summary: In this extensive episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke dives into the controversial Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating Station project in the Mojave Desert. He examines the ecological impacts ...
Jan. 21, 2025
S4E2: Good News at Ash Meadows
About the Guest: Mason Voehl is the Executive Director of the Amargosa Conservancy, which works to protect and celebrate the valuable ecosystems within the Amargosa Basin. Voehl's work includes a special focus on groundwater ...
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