Our Public Lands

In this episode, I interview Kirk Robinson with the Western Wildlife Conservancy. Kirk shares his deep connection with Utah's environment, public lands, and history. We discuss the Great Salt Lake's environmental issues due to drought and human activities, highlighting the impacts of agriculture, mining, and urban growth. Kirk reflects on his family’s pioneer history, academic journey in...

In this episode, I interview Katie Bilodeau and Kevin Proescholdt from Wilderness Watch. We discuss their organization's mission to preserve the integrity of the wilderness Act, legal enforcement, and challenges to wilderness across the political spectrums. Our conversation delves into the historical context and continuing relevance of wilderness protection, including specific legislative thr...

In this episode, I interview Andy Kerr, a main stay of conservation politics and public lands advocacy.  Andy discusses his journey into forest conservation, reflecting on key moments in his career, such as the Save French Pete demonstration in 1970, and significant legislative milestones like the Endangered American Wilderness Act of 1978. Andy also highlights the impactful yet controversial Nort...

In this episode, I interview Paul Englemeyer with the Bird Alliance of Oregon (formally the Audubon Society). Paul and I have an in-depth discussion on the conservation efforts and environmental challenges faced on Oregon's Central Coast. We cover topics such as the Clean Water Act, salmon recovery, the ecological importance of beavers, the impact of hatcheries to wild fish populations, fores...

In this episode I interview Laura Welp, Ecosystems Specialist with the Western Watersheds Project. We discuss the significance of our public lands, and the democratic principles that should underpin their management. Our discussion addresses the conflicts between livestock grazing and ecological health, including challenges from invasive species (like cheatgrass) and livestock impacts on native ec...

In this detailed conversation, I interview Dr. Joseph Scalia III to discuss our journey with the Gallatin Yellowstone Wilderness Alliance (GYWA) based in Bozeman, Montana and the broader challenges facing wilderness preservation. We reflect on our past and present experiences, including efforts to advocate for wilderness designations on public lands in the Gallatin Range and northern Yellowstone e...

In this episode of 'Our Public Lands', I interview journalist and environmental investigator Paul Koberstein. Our conversation delves into the importance of protecting old growth forests, and their immense ecological and value. Paul shares his extensive experience in environmental journalism, highlighting landmark investigations by his outfit Cascadia Times, including exposing poaching i...

In the inaugural episode of 'Our Public Lands,' host Adam Bronstein speaks with Sharon Selvaggio from the Xerces Society about the federal USDA APHIS grasshopper and Mormon cricket spraying program. They explore the extensive use of pesticides on public and private lands to control these native species and its widespread ecological impacts. Sharon provides insight into her background, th...