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

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 conservative policies. Highlighting the importance of grassroots activism, Chris emphasizes the need for a unified vision and community involvement to effect meaningful change. Throughout the episode, Chris underscores the significance of a concerted effort to engage people at the local level to tackle environmental threats and social injustices head-on. As the episode unfolds, Chris challenges the environmental movement to broaden its scope, emphasizing the vital need for cooperation with local communities—a strategy successfully utilized by the environmental justice movement. Chris calls for imaginative conceptualizations of a sustainable future while recognizing the obstacles posed by the entrenched political system. He promotes active public engagement and community-based responses as essential components for achieving the envisioned societal change. Key Takeaways: The importance of grassroots organization and maintaining active engagement in political processes beyond merely voting. Understanding the conservative movement's sustained effort over decades to shape policy and society, contrasting with periodic liberal responses. Articulating a compelling vision for a better world that transcends mere opposition to conservative agendas. The necessity for the environmental movement to connect deeply with local communities and involve them actively in preservation efforts. The role of community in countering national challenges, advocating for local responses to systemic issues.  Notable Quotes: "Given that we outnumber them, why are we in this predicament?" "We've been forced to use tools like the ESA and NEPA. We would have been stupid not to use them." "We've got to be about more than just opposing our opponents. We have to have a vision of how we want the world to be." "It's going to involve actually talking to your neighbors in real time, either face to face or on the phone." Resources: For further information or to support their efforts, listeners can visit  https://90milesfromneedles.com/stop47 and explore the Trump Opposition Reporting Fund under the "Stop 47" initiative. Additionally, the podcast welcomes financial contributions via https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. This episode underscores the vital work involved in desert protection and emphasizes community efforts in fostering ecological awareness and reform.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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's beak. Navigate the complexities of environmental protection amid rapid industrialization and learn about the vibrant ecosystems that hang in the balance. Discover how these efforts intertwine with broader themes of sustainability and environmental stewardship.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 advocacy to drive the change they wish to see in environmental and desert policies.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 experience as a park ranger at Big Bend National Park. A founding member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, Rick has decades of experience advocating for the conservation of the Mexican wolf. Erin Hunt is an advocate with Lobos of the Southwest. She has over 16 years of experience working on Mexican wolf conservation, particularly in public education, outreach, and coexistence efforts with ranching communities. Philip Sozanski is an AP U.S. History and AP Research teacher, and an independent historian focusing on environmental history. He is a board member of the Texas Lobo Coalition, with a strong interest in Texas's natural heritage and history of wildlife conservation. Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into the crucial work of the Texas Lobo Coalition to restore the Mexican wolf to its former ranges in West Texas. Featuring insightful discussions with Rick LoBello, Erin Hunt, and Philip Sozanski, the episode captures the passion and urgency behind their conservation efforts. The group's goal is to foster coexistence between wolves and locals, creating a balanced ecosystem that benefits wildlife and people alike. Throughout the episode, listeners learn about the historical and ecological significance of the Mexican wolf, also known as the Lobo, in Texas. Rick LoBello shares his extensive experience with wolf conservation, while Erin Hunt discusses the importance of restoring ecosystems to ensure a future for diverse species, including the Mexican wolf. Philip Sozanski highlights the historical challenges and the cultural fears attached to wolves, which have persisted for centuries. Together, they make a compelling case for reintroducing this essential apex predator, emphasizing the potential positive impact on the Texas landscape.   Key Takeaways:   The Texas Lobo Coalition works tirelessly to create support among local landowners and the broader community for reintroducing the Mexican wolf to Texas. Mexican wolves once roamed parts of Texas but were hunted to near extinction by the mid-20th century due to conflicts with livestock farming. Current conservation efforts emphasize the ecological benefits of wolves, including maintaining healthy prey populations and ecosystems. Myths and fears about wolves persist, but evidence shows they pose little threat to human safety; education is crucial to change outdated perceptions. Restoring the Mexican wolf requires collaboration, empathy, and understanding that successful coexistence leads to healthier environments for all. Notable Quotes: "Our main aim is to find a way to give this animal a chance to return to its native landscape." – Rick LoBello 2. "We're not necessarily asking people to love wolves. We're asking people, what do you need from this land that you care about?" – Erin Hunt "Texans are rabid about their history and about their heritage, and the natural history of Texas is incomplete without the presence of this iconic species." – Philip Sozanski "Coexistence is absolutely possible. We know it works." – Erin Hunt Resources:  Texas Lobo Coalition: [texaslobocoalition.org](https://www.texaslobocoalition.org) Lobos of the Southwest: [https://mexicanwolves.org/](https://www. https://mexicanwolves.org/) * Wolf Conservation Center: [nywolf.org](https://www.nywolf.org)   Join us as we explore fascinating topics about desert wildlife conservation and the intricate dynamics of ecosystems. Listen to the full episode to discover how you too can support efforts to bring back the majestic Mexican wolf to its rightful home.  Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Juniper HarrowerJuniper 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 explore the impact of climate change on desert habitats. Harrower's work has been featured in academic and artistic spheres, with a focus on ecological relationships and environmental restoration. Sant KhalsaSant Khalsa is an accomplished artist and curator who has been actively engaged in environmental issues through her artwork for over four decades. A professor emerita from Cal State San Bernardino, Khalsa has contributed extensively to eco-conscious art practices. Her curatorial work, especially on the exhibition "Desert Forest:  Life with Joshua Trees," highlights her commitment to the intersection of art, environment, and activism. Chris ClarkeChris Clarke is a presenter and writer with a keen focus on environmental conservation, particularly involving desert ecology and Joshua trees. He has a history of extensive research and analysis on ecological subjects, bringing both scientific and cultural insights into discussions on plant conservation. Episode Summary: Explore the rich intersections of art, ecology, and desert life in this episode with Juniper Harrower, Sant Khalsa, and Chris Clarke. As curators and contributors to the "Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book, Sant and Juniper provide in-depth insights into their journey from conception to realization of this comprehensive project. Highlighted by compelling storytelling, the episode delves into their deep-rooted connections to the desert, blending scientific research with artistic expression to illuminate the pressing environmental issues affecting Joshua trees today. The conversation covers the inspiration behind the exhibition, aiming to elevate the dialogue around Joshua Trees through a blend of factual inquiry and creative artwork. The exhibition, part of the Getty-supported PST art and science Collide, explores the rich ecological, cultural, and historical narratives surrounding Joshua Trees. Sant and Juniper share the collaborative process of engaging over 50 artists, writers, and scientists (and some contributors that fit into more than just one of these categories) to create multidimensional representations of the desert ecosystem. Key Takeaways: Integration of Art and Science: The "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" project successfully merges scientific research with artistic expression to present a comprehensive understanding of Joshua trees and their ecosystems. Curatorial Approach: Sant Khalsa emphasizes the exhibition's unique curatorial approach by highlighting its breadth and the synergy between artists who live in the Joshua Tree area. Community Involvement: Both the book and exhibition foster community engagement by raising awareness of ecological issues and promoting proactive environmental stewardship. Environmental Threats: The show underscores the urgent threats faced by Joshua Trees, including climate change, industrial development, and habitat destruction. Cultural Significance: Juniper and Sant explore the deep-rooted cultural symbolism of Joshua Trees and address historical and current challenges through art and science narratives. Resources: Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees: Inlandia Institute Museum Of Art and History: https://www.lancastermoah.org/ Juniper Harrower: Juniper's Work Sant Khalsa: Sant's Work Immerse yourself fully in the "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book to appreciate the intricate dance of art, science, and nature presented by Juniper Harrower and Sant Khalsa. Consider this episode a portal into deeper understanding and appreciation of desert life, with a wealth of knowledge that emphasizes sustainability, cultural identity, and ecological balance. Stay tuned for more from the 90 Miles from Needles podcast, illuminating the vast and vibrant landscapes of our deserts.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 York Times. Goldfarb's influential book Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter has received critical acclaim for its insightful examination of the ecological significance of beavers. He currently resides in Colorado. Episode Summary: In this episode of 90 Miles from Needles, host Chris Clarke engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb. The focus is on the nuanced field of road ecology and its implications on desert ecosystems. Clarke and Goldfarb delve into the effects of roads on wildlife, touching on staggering statistics like the million animals killed by cars daily in the U.S. alone. They explore how roadkill, highways, and infrastructures challenge species such as desert tortoises and pronghorns in arid regions, combining environmental insight with ground-level observations. As the conversation unfolds, Goldfarb expands on the transformative role of road ecology—a growing scientific discipline that examines the relationship between transportation infrastructures and ecological systems. He highlights pressing issues including hydrological impacts, wildlife mobility, and innovative solutions like wildlife crossings to promote ecological connectivity. Clarke and Goldfarb also explore technologies, policies, and community efforts aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of roads on the environment, weaving in discussions on living sustainability in desert habitats. Key Takeaways Road Ecology Definition: Road ecology is a dynamic scientific field focusing on how transportation infrastructure affects the environment, with extended applications from mitigating roadkill to supporting wildlife crossings. Impact on Desert Ecosystems: Roads in desert landscapes alter wildlife movement and hydrology, posing severe threats to species needing extensive ranges like the desert tortoise and pronghorn. Wildlife Crossings: Successful wildlife crossings such as the Liberty Canyon project are vital in reducing road mortality and ensuring wildlife connectivity, especially in regions with high biodiversity. Human Infrastructure Influence: The conversation highlights how human infrastructure can drive either positive ecological developments as in beaver habitats or embody detrimental impacts like excessive road development. Beavers in Arid Lands: Goldfarb emphasizes that beavers once played a crucial role in maintaining riparian ecosystems in deserts, underlining the potential for ecosystem restoration. Notable Quotes "Road ecology is this relatively small but fast-growing field of science that looks at all of the different connections between roads and nature." – Ben Goldfarb "Beavers are sort of integral to those systems… the amount of lush flourishing in desert landscapes is incredible." – Ben Goldfarb "Every ecological impact stems from a road to some extent. Roads are the root of all evil." – Ben Goldfarb "We happen to do it in a way that is incredibly detrimental to biodiversity." – Ben Goldfarb "In some ways, we and beavers are these weird mirror images of each other." – Ben Goldfarb Resources Ben Goldfarb's Book: Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet Ben Goldfarb's Book: Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter Don’t miss out on this enlightening episode as Ben Goldfarb shares his invaluable insights into road ecology and its profound impact on desert ecosystems. Follow 90 Miles from Needles for more episodes that delve into pressing environmental issues and explore sustainable solutions.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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, and the ecological impact of industry and urban development in the arid Southwest. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles," Chris Clarke speaks with Kyle Roerink, Executive Director of the Great Basin Water Network, about the ongoing battles and emerging concerns regarding water rights and environmental conservation in the arid regions of the Great Basin and the Colorado River Basin. The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about an unusual statement from the former president regarding a mythical "faucet" to solve water issues in California, setting an intriguing tone about broader misconceptions and real challenges. The episode delves deep into current projects and proposals that threaten the water security and ecological balance in the regions. Roerink highlights the pressing issues surrounding lithium mining in Green River, Utah, and its potential environmental impact. The conversation explores the novel direct lithium extraction technology and the legal precedents it may set, impacting future mining projects in the area. The discussion also touches on the alarming number of proposed new dams and diversions in the Upper Colorado River Basin and the implications for downstream water rights and ecological health. Key Takeaways: Direct Lithium Extraction and Environmental Concerns: The controversial lithium mining project in Green River, Utah, utilizing direct lithium extraction technology, poses several environmental risks and legal challenges, particularly concerning groundwater rights and public welfare. Over-Allocation of Colorado River Water: The ongoing issues of water over-allocation on paper versus actual availability, exacerbated by climate change and decreasing water flows, put immense pressure on water management across the Colorado River Basin. Ecological and Legal Implications of New Dams and Diversions: The numerous proposed dam and diversion projects in the Upper Colorado River Basin underscore the need for rigorous scrutiny and sustainable planning to prevent exacerbating water shortages and ecological damage. Glen Canyon Dam and Long-term Water Management: Discussion on the feasibility and future of maintaining both Lake Mead and Lake Powell reservoirs, with a growing consensus favoring prioritizing Lake Mead due to infrastructural and water delivery benefits. Community and Environmental Advocacy: Highlighting the importance of grassroots advocacy, collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and the significant role of public knowledge and engagement in addressing the complex water issues in the arid Southwest. Notable Quotes: Kyle Roerink: "We can only do the green energy transition once. There's no room for error, there's no margin for error." Chris Clarke: "There's a whole lot of money that you can make in destroying the desert, but not too much in saving it." Kyle Roerink: "Mother Nature is the best teacher." Kyle Roerink: "I think, like post federal lands Policy and Management act, that post Flitma era and push that really bolstered the environmental movement." Kyle Roerink: "If we're to believe the nation's best scientists, the worst is yet to come." Resources: Great Basin Water Network https://greatbasinwater.org/ Living Rivers http://www.livingrivers.org/ Glen Canyon Institute https://www.glencanyon.org/ UC Berkeley Climate Futures Lab https://nature.berkeley.edu/ClimateFuturesLab For more groundbreaking discussions about desert protection and water conservation, don't forget to listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more insightful content from "90 Miles from Needles." The desert needs your support and awareness now more than ever.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 activities. He collaborates with various organizations to unveil significant public health and environmental threats, focusing particularly on fallout from the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke is joined by Dr. Michael Ketterer, a seasoned expert in analytical chemistry and environmental radioactivity. Together, they explore the often-overlooked subject of plutonium contamination in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Dr. Ketterer's in-depth research reveals shocking levels of contamination left over from Manhattan Project activities in the 1940s and onward. Living in close proximity to this historic contamination presents significant health risks, which have been largely underreported until now. Dr. Ketterer details his findings, explaining how he independently verified the presence of dangerous amounts of plutonium in water and sediment samples in Acid Canyon, a site previously deemed "cleaned up" by federal authorities. He discusses the broader environmental and public health implications, emphasizing how this hidden contamination endangers not only the local communities but also areas downstream of Los Alamos. This episode is a clarion call for greater public awareness and stricter environmental standards to protect against long-lasting radiological hazards. Key Takeaways: Undetected Contaminants: Dr. Ketterer’s research uncovers significant levels of plutonium contamination in Acid Canyon, Los Alamos, contradicting official cleanup claims. Health Risks and Oversight: Federal authorities and local scientists have underestimated or dismissed the health risks presented by the historical contamination, raising concerns about regulatory oversight. Isotopic Analysis for Identification: Using isotopic analysis, Dr. Ketterer shows that the contamination traces back to early uranium processing activities from the Manhattan Project, not just global fallout. Environmental Justice Issues: Downstream communities, including Pueblo populations, face ongoing risks from long-standing contamination, underlining severe environmental justice issues. Policy Implications: The discussion advocates for the expansion of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to include New Mexicans affected by historic nuclear activities, along with stricter regulatory standards. Notable Quotes: "It's mind-blowing to find 80 picocuries per liter of plutonium in the water. That’s extremely contaminated by any standard." "The land, soil, and plants downstream are contaminated forever, affecting people who had no say in these activities." "The government's lack of an apology and acknowledgment of the damage done is a critical issue. As Americans, we should apologize to New Mexicans." "Living near a site like this requires permanent environmental monitoring. The government won't do it for you; you have to take matters into your own hands." "The goal here is awareness and public participation. People, especially younger generations, need to question the reality of their environment and demand accountability." Resources: Nuclear Watch New Mexico Interactive Map (https://nukewatch.org/interactive-map-plutonium-contamination-and-migration-around-lanl/) Searchlight New Mexico (https://searchlightnm.org/) - A publication dedicated to investigative journalism, including environmental issues Dive into this enlightening episode to understand the serious implications of long-term plutonium contamination and the urgent need for public awareness and regulatory action.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 alternative that might surprise you. The episode emphasizes the urgent need for smarter solar deployment to mitigate climate change without sacrificing crucial desert ecosystems. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis and a compelling argument for better planning in renewable energy projects. • Chris Clarke's Email Newsletter: Letters from the Desert • USGS Land Use Data: https://www.usgs.gov/news/estimates-areal-extent-us-parking-lots-now-available • Western Solar Plan:** (Extensive documentation on the 2024 and 2012 Western Solar Plans for context on the policy discussed.) https://blmsolar.anl.gov/solar-peis-2023/ Listeners are encouraged to tune into this informative episode to gain deeper insights into solar energy policies.Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.