Best Chris Clarke And Alicia Pike Podcasts (2025)

1
S4E6: The Desert Speaks Out 27:48

2d ago27:48

27:48

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 of grassroots advocacy, community solidarity, and the ongoing struggle to protect unique desert landscapes from economic explo…

1
S4E5: DOGE Layoffs Are Sabotaging Public Lands 40:29

8d ago40:29

40:29

About the Guest Kristen Brengel serves as the Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). With extensive experience in advocacy and policy, Kristen has been a pivotal voice in the conservation and protection of national parks across the United States. Her work involves lobbying on Capitol Hill…

1
S4E4: Other Podcasts You Should Check Out 34:02

16d ago34:02

34:02

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 exploring cultural narratives that shape our understanding of solitude in nature. With Emily Guerin’s investigative series, "Californ…

1
Teaser: a quick update 4:15

24d ago4:15

4:15

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 while previewing future episodes. The upcoming "Other Podcasts" episode (actual title to be determined) promises to feature re…

1
S4E3: Ivanpah Solar to shut down 32:52

1M ago32:52

32:52

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 of this large-scale solar project, highlighting the tension between renewable energy and biodiversity preservation. Chris dis…

1
S4E2: Good News at Ash Meadows 32:57

1M ago32:57

32:57

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 management near Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert …

1
S4E1: Moab to Mojave: The Largest Conservation Corridor Explained 29:45

2M ago29:45

29:45

In this first episode of Season Four, we look at: Wildfires and Power Infrastructure: Power lines and climate change are making wildfires worse, so it's time to think about smaller, local power setups. Chuckwalla National Monument: Creating this monument is a big step in keeping sensitive ecosystems safe from the impacts of climate change. Moab to …

1
Season Four coming soon! 2:00

2M ago2:00

2:00

Explore the vital efforts in desert conservation with the return of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." Season four kicks off on January 14th. We explore the profound impact the desert has on global environmental health. Join the journey to save the desert and uncover why these landscapes are essential to our world. Become a des…

1
S3E37: BLM Cozies Up To Renewable Energy Companies 36:54

2M ago36:54

36:54

Join Chris Clarke as he discusses apparent collusion between Nevada's BLM staff and energy companies with journalist Jimmy Tobias. In this enlightening episode, explore the controversy surrounding the development of Greenlink transmission lines and their potential environmental impact. Discover how renewable energy initiatives are reshaping Nevada …

1
S3E36: Laughing Coyotes and Saguaro Dreams: An Unlikely Desert Awakening 33:28

3M ago33:28

33:28

The desert is more than a landscape; it is home. Chris Clarke's personal narrative exemplifies this connection, merging personal reflection with broader ecological advocacy. For those invested in its fate, the desert isn't just a geographic location—it's an integral part of their identity, a family to defend. And as challenges of development and co…

1
S3E35: Reimagine, Rebuild, Resist: Creating the World We Want Together 41:16

3M ago41:16

41:16

Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles, the Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke delivers an impassioned reflection on the results of the recent election. He traces the roots of today's situation to the Reagan administration and beyond, while discussing the challenges the progressive movement faces in countering conserv…

1
S3E34: Hope the Mexican Wolf: A Tale of Survival and Loss in Northern Arizona 34:49

4M ago34:49

34:49

Join host Chris Clarke as he delves into the poignant tale of Hope, a Mexican wolf, with Greta Anderson from Western Watersheds Project. Discover the politics behind wolf recovery north of Interstate 40, and the broader implications for conservation policy. Anderson highlights the need for policy changes to support the natural dispersion of wolves.…

1
S3E33: Dr. Naomi Fraga on the Frontlines of Botanical Conservation 45:04

4M ago45:04

45:04

Join host Chris Clarke and guest Dr. Naomi Fraga, Director of Conservation Programs at the California Botanic Garden, as they explore the challenges and successes in desert plant conservation in Nevada. Discover the plight of Tiehm's buckwheat threatened by a lithium-boron mining project and the promising steps toward protection for the Tecopa bird…

1
S3E32: Vote, Engage, and Protect Our Desert 23:54

4M ago23:54

23:54

In this special Election Day 2024 episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris sheds light on the crucial role of civic engagement in the ongoing struggle to protect North America’s deserts. Released strategically on a day when decisions hold power over environmental policies, this episode emphasizes the dual efforts needed both in voting and ongoing …

1
S3E31: Return of the Lobo: Restoring Texas' Mexican Wolves 52:01

5M ago52:01

52:01

About the Guest(s): Chris Clarke is the host of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast." He brings a wealth of knowledge about wildlife and conservation topics, particularly relating to the American Southwest's deserts. Rick LoBello is the Education and Conservation Curator at the El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens, with previous …

1
S3E30: Exploring the Art and Science of Joshua Trees 1:10:47

5M ago1:10:47

1:10:47

Juniper Harrower Juniper Harrower is an artist and ecologist currently serving as an art professor at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. Born in Palm Springs and raised in the high desert, Harrower has a profound connection with desert ecology. Her work is deeply intertwined with Joshua tree ecosystems, blending art with scientific inquiry to explor…

1
S3E29: Barbed Wire and Border Walls: The Unseen Cost of Fragmented Habitats 55:23

5M ago55:23

55:23

About the Guest: Ben Goldfarb is an award-winning environmental journalist and prolific author known for his focus on the intersection of human activity and wildlife. His works, including Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet, explore groundbreaking ecological concepts and have been recognized by outlets such as the New Yo…

1
S3E28: There Ain't No Big Faucet: Water Politics with the Great Basin Water Network 52:32

5M ago52:32

52:32

About the Guest: Kyle Roerink is the Executive Director of the Great Basin Water Network. Roerink has been a pivotal figure in advocating for sustainable water management across the Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. His organization has played a significant role in addressing critical issues related to water rights, environmental protection, an…

1
S3E27: Los Alamos's Dark Legacy: Plutonium Pollution in Plain Sight 49:38

6M ago49:38

49:38

About the Guest: Dr. Michael E. Ketterer is a Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at Northern Arizona University. With extensive expertise in analytical chemistry and environmental analysis of radionuclides such as uranium and plutonium, Dr. Ketterer has dedicated his recent research to studying hazardous contamination from historical nuclear activitie…

1
S3E26: The New Western Solar Plan: A Disaster for Desert Ecosystems? 36:08

6M ago36:08

36:08

Chris Clarke delves into the controversial final programmatic environmental impact statement for the western Solar Plan, revealing the potential ecological damage from vast solar developments across 11 states. Despite personal support and advocacy for solar power, Clarke critiques the plan's sprawling approach and highlights a more sustainable alte…

1
S3E25: Utah's Public Lands Lawsuit Sparks Controversy 34:59

6M ago34:59

34:59

Public lands in Utah take center stage as Governor Spencer Cox announces a lawsuit aiming to shift control of those lands from federal to state hands. Chris Clarke explores the implications with Jonathan Thompson, a long-time public lands journalist. They dissect the motivations behind the lawsuit, potential impacts on conservation and recreation, …

1
S3E24: The Fight to Protect the Pahrump Valley 45:26

7M ago45:26

45:26

The rise of renewable energy projects, particularly solar farms, in desert regions has sparked concern regarding their impact on native wildlife, including the desert tortoises. Solar panels cover vast tracts of land to capture sunlight efficiently, which can lead to habitat loss for the tortoises. They can be displaced from their native habitats, …

1
S3E23: Moonlit Deserts and Lost Love 25:13

7M ago25:13

25:13

In this heartfelt episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke shares an evocative reading from his book, "Walking with Zeke," reflecting on meaningful experiences with his previous dog Zeke. This story reveals the depth of his connection to his pets and nature, illustrating the profound impact these relationships have on his life and work…

1
S3E22: Debunking Snake Misconceptions 43:04

8M ago43:04

43:04

Chris chats with Lucas Basulto, president of the Desert Advocacy Media Network, from a swelteringly hot living room about snakes in the desert. They trade snake stories, discuss common misconceptions about these reptiles, and stress the ecological importance of preserving their habitats. From Lucas' childhood snake-collecting antics to how to handl…

1
S3E21: The War on Facts: Environmental Protection after Chevron 38:05

8M ago38:05

38:05

Under Chevron, agencies interpreted often vague language in laws passed by Congress. Supreme Court’s move now reallocates these decisions to the courts. We explain what this means. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By Chris Clarke

1
S3E20: Desert Protection versus Climate Capitalism: Can we have both? 26:37

8M ago26:37

26:37

A representative of a Canadian mining firm poised to damage Ash Meadows and the Amargosa says opponents might be shills for oil and gas companies. We take him to task. We often hear that sacrificing natural landscapes is a necessary evil for renewable energy. But as Rebecca Wisent says, “...the conversation now is almost entirely about ways to hand…

1
S3E19: Oh, those dark desert skies 46:42

9M ago46:42

46:42

About the Guest(s): Mitch Miller: Mitch Miller is a seasoned landscape photographer based in Joshua Tree, California. With a career that started in 1981, Mitch has a unique affection for capturing night sky images. His extensive knowledge of Joshua Tree National Park and a deep connection to the desert landscape informs his artistic pursuits. Mitch…

1
S3E18: Don't Die Today! Staying Safe in Desert Heat 38:54

9M ago38:54

38:54

Surviving and thriving in desert heat require a combination of knowledge, preparation, and vigilance. Understanding the immediate dangers, recognizing early symptoms of heat injuries, and taking practical precautions can help ensure safety for everyone venturing into these extreme conditions. By sharing these insights, we can better equip ourselves…

1
S3E17: Submerged No More! Restoring Chemehuevi Land and Traditions 47:01

9M ago47:01

47:01

Daniel Leivas, Southern Paiute-Chemehuevi from Lake Havasu, shares his journey of reviving ancestral agricultural practices on the Chemehuevi Nation's traditional farm. He narrates how his family transformed the land into a thriving ecosystem. Exploring connections between the land, water, and spirit, Leivas recounts battles with wildlife, environm…

1
S3E16: Ash Meadows Faces New Mining Threat 28:06

10M ago28:06

28:06

In this episode we welcome back Mason Voehl from the Amargosa Conservancy for an engaging and informative update on the situation surrounding Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and the threat of lithium mining explorations by Rover Critical Minerals. As environmental defenders, the Conservancy alongside partners like the Center for Biological Div…

1
S3E15: The Surprising Longevity of Desert Plants 37:52

10M ago37:52

37:52

Discover the ancient plants of the desert in this episode of 90 Miles from Needles. From the 11,700-year-old King Clone creosote bush to the surprisingly long lifespans of cholla cacti and Mojave yuccas, host Chris Clarke explores the remarkable longevity of these desert plants. Learn how scientists determine the age of these plants through histori…

1
S3E14: Saving El Paso's Rio Bosque Wetlands 50:17

10M ago50:17

50:17

About our Guest: Jon Rezendes is an influential conservationist with a dedication to the preservation and rewilding of the Chihuahuan Desert region, particularly in El Paso, Texas. His military background brought him to El Paso, where he found a second home amid the natural beauty of the desert landscape. As the Vice President of the Frontera Land …

1
S3E13: Why Protecting Cultural Sites is Important 48:43

10M ago48:43

48:43

In this revealing episode, we delve into the clandestine underworld of archaeological site looting and cultural vandalism in the Southwest. Our esteemed guests, Shannon Cowell and Dustin Whiting of Archaeology Southwest, shine a light on the often-underreported plundering of ancestral lands and the complex web of issues surrounding heritage justice…

1
S3E12: Our 50th Episode 28:10

11M ago28:10

28:10

In this 50th episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke reflects on the importance of protecting the desert and the need for more desert activists. He discusses the challenges faced by the desert, including resource extraction and the loss of news media coverage. Clarke emphasizes the role of the podcast in providing information and insp…

1
S3E11: Desert Stories 37:57

11M ago37:57

37:57

In this episode host Chris Clarke shares his recent visit to the Amargosa Basin, highlighting the stunning wildflower bloom and the importance of supporting local communities. He also presents three captivating desert stories, including the self-awareness of bursage plants, the connection between humans and coyotes, and the deceptive allure of dese…

1
S3E10: Can the Wilson's Phalarope Save the Great Salt Lake? 44:31

11M ago44:31

44:31

Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of "90 Miles from Needles," the Desert Protection podcast, we journey with the host to the shores of the rapidly shrinking Great Salt Lake and the steps of the Utah State Capitol. We delve into the urgent efforts led by advocates and scientists to save the critical ecosystem of the lake and protect…

1
S3E9: How Avi Kwa Ame Transformed My Life 47:39

12M ago47:39

47:39

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke reflects on the significance of the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada. He shares personal stories of his deep connection to the desert landscape and the transformative power it holds. The episode also includes excerpts from the ceremony celebrating th…

1
S3E8: Border Wall: A Barrier to Wildlife and Humanity 48:01

12M ago48:01

48:01

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke interviews Myles Traphagen, a conservationist and scientist working with The Wildlands Network. They discuss the impact of the border wall on wildlife and the environment, as well as the artificial humanitarian crisis at the US-Mexico border. Traphagen highlights the need for a more huma…

1
S3E7: Saving the Chihuahuan Desert with Frontera Land Alliance 36:58

1y ago36:58

36:58

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of the Chihuahuan Desert in this episode of "90 Miles from Needles, the Desert Protection Podcast." Host Chris Clarke explores the challenges of conserving this vast desert, primarily located in Mexico but also extending into Texas and New Mexico. He speaks with Janae Reneaud Field, Kathia Gonzalez, and Rocio Ro…

1
S3E6: Joshua Trees and Family Trees 28:36

1y ago28:36

28:36

In this episode, host Chris Clarke shares an excerpt from his book in progress about the Joshua tree, the signature plant of the Mojave Desert. He reflects on his experiences in the desert, the balance of nature, and the kinship of all life. With vivid descriptions of the desert landscape and personal anecdotes, Clarke explores the connection betwe…

1
S3E5: Protecting the Great Bend of the Gila 35:06

1y ago35:06

35:06

Join host Chris Clarke as he explores the proposed Great Bend of the Gila National Monument with advocates Skylar Begay and Mike Quigley. They discuss the importance of protecting this pristine Sonoran Desert landscape, rich in cultural and natural history. With the threat of encroaching development and destructive recreation, the establishment of …

1
S3E4: Nevada Supreme Court Upholds Water Protections for Desert Wildlife 21:47

1y ago21:47

21:47

In this episode, host Chris Clarke speaks with Patrick Donnelly of the Center for Biological Diversity about a significant victory in the Nevada Supreme Court regarding water rights. They discuss the case of Coyote Springs, a proposed city in the desert that would have a detrimental effect on the Muddy River and its endangered species. The court ru…

1
S3E3: The Fight Against Flamingo 640; How a Community Stood Up to Big Development 42:19

1y ago42:19

42:19

In this episode, host Chris Clarke discusses the successful fight against a proposed glamping project called Flamingo 640 in the California desert. Clarke is joined by community member Caroline Partamian, former president of the Homestead Valley Community Council Justin Merino, and Luke Basulto from the National Parks Conservation Association. They…

1
S3E2: Biden's Plan to Turn the Desert into a Solar Energy Complex 37:27

1y ago37:27

37:27

The Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Utility-Scale Solar energy development is shaping the future of solar in the western United States. In this episode, host Chris Clarke explores the different alternatives proposed in the draft and their potential impact on public lands. He discusses the exclusion areas, the size of land avai…

1
S3E1: Four Books That Will Change How You See The Desert 44:37

1y ago44:37

44:37

In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke introduces four books that will challenge preconceptions about the desert. The first book, "The Arid Lands: History, Power, and Knowledge" by Diana K. Davis, challenges the notion that deserts are wastelands in need of development. The second book, "Peoples…

1
S2E16: Protecting Desert Bighorn Sheep from Habitat Loss and Disease 45:38

1y ago45:38

45:38

About The Guest(s): Dr. Christina Aiello is a bighorn sheep biologist and research associate with Oregon State University. She has dedicated her career to studying and conserving desert wildlife, particularly desert tortoises and desert bighorn sheep. With a focus on the Mojave Desert region, Dr. Aiello's research examines the impacts of habitat lo…

1
S2E15: On Giving Tuesday, Make a Difference for the Desert 9:37

1+ y ago9:37

9:37

Summary: Chris discusses the challenges that the deserts will face in 2024, including increased utility scale development of renewable energy, the threat of lithium mining, and the continuation of border policies that waive environmental laws. Chris emphasizes the need for accurate advocacy for the deserts and challenges the misconception that the …

1
S2E14: Obi Kaufmann and The Deserts of California 51:31

1+ y ago51:31

51:31

About The Guest(s): Obi Kaufmann is an artist, author, and naturalist known for his California Field Atlas series. His latest book, "The Deserts of California," explores the biodiversity and ecological systems of California's deserts. Summary: Obi Kaufmann joins hosts Chris Clarke and Alicia Pike on the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast to discuss hi…

1
S2E13: Dealing With Loss 41:22

1+ y ago41:22

41:22

It's been a minute since we published an episode, in part because Chris and Alicia have had complicated lives. Here's how we contend with bad news inside and out of the desert: we go to ground in the desert. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

1
S2E12: The Majestic Saguaro, Part 1 1:07:33

1+ y ago1:07:33

1:07:33

We delve into the world of the saguaro cactus, exploring its cultural significance, scientific studies, and more. We talk to journalist Henry Brean of the Arizona Daily Star and Tucson storyteller Audrey Scheere about different aspects of this magnificent plant, the threats it faces, and how people interact with it — for good or ill. Join us as we …

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