Your Mountain

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Join David Willms, Mike McGrady, Nephi Cole, and entertaining guests each week as they use humor, storytelling, and more than 40 years of collective experience in law, science, and policy to explain important decisions affecting your outdoor experience. As the guys frequently say, "There are million…

Your Mountain with David Willms, Mike McGrady and Nephi Cole


    • May 23, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 8m AVG DURATION
    • 200 EPISODES

    4.9 from 302 ratings Listeners of Your Mountain that love the show mention: nephi, public lands, great outdoors, gravel, get informed, hunting and fishing, conservation, wildlife, mountain, western, easy to digest, hunter, policy, water, david, dave, mike, issues, excited to see, law.


    Ivy Insights

    The Your Mountain podcast is an exceptional source of information and discussion on conservation, public lands, and animal issues. Hosted by Nephi Cole and Dr. David Willms, this podcast offers a unique blend of expertise and accessibility that appeals to both legal professionals and non-lawyers alike. With a focus on explaining complex topics in a way that can be easily understood by anyone, the hosts strike the perfect balance between providing enough detail for those with a legal background while still remaining accessible to all listeners.

    One of the best aspects of The Your Mountain podcast is their ability to delve into legal and policy issues surrounding conservation without losing substance or becoming dry. The hosts have a knack for distilling complex issues into digestible formats, making it easy for listeners to grasp the intricacies of the topics at hand. Whether you're an attorney or not, you'll find their explanations clear and informative.

    Another standout aspect of this podcast is its honest and entertaining approach. The hosts don't shy away from expressing different viewpoints or engaging in debates, which adds depth and authenticity to their discussions. This willingness to disagree and debate provides listeners with well-rounded perspectives on various topics.

    Furthermore, it's worth noting that The Your Mountain podcast stands out for its dedication to providing ad-free content. Unlike many other podcasts, there are no interruptions for advertisements or product promotions. This allows listeners to fully immerse themselves in the discussions without any distractions.

    In terms of drawbacks, one could argue that the irregular production schedule of this podcast is a downside. While it's understandable that producing high-quality content can take time, some fans may find themselves eagerly awaiting new episodes only to be left waiting longer than expected. However, it's important to remember that quality often takes precedence over quantity when it comes to podcasts.

    In conclusion, The Your Mountain podcast is a valuable resource for anyone interested in hunting, fishing, conservation, or public lands issues. With its informative discussions and dedication to providing well-rounded perspectives, it offers a unique and engaging listening experience. Whether you're an attorney or a beginner hunter, this podcast is sure to educate and entertain.



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    Latest episodes from Your Mountain

    Rep. Zinke's San Juan Hill

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 52:51


    The proposal to sell or otherwise dispose of hundreds of thousands of acres of public land in Nevada and Utah was pulled from the US House Reconciliation bill. The guys talk about how it happened, and how Representative Zinke's red line, along with hundreds of thousands of public lands lovers from across the country speaking out, helped pull a rabbit out of a hat. They also discuss what still lies ahead with the Senate. Other topics include: OnX's last minute blunder, and other pieces you might care about that are both in and out of the reconiciliation bill--like Ambler Road(out), the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (in), and tax relief on suppresors (in). Lots covered in this one. 

    Nearly A Half A Million Acres of Public Land Identified for Sale or Exchange

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 76:35


    It happened. Through a middle of  the night amendment to the House Natural Resources Committee Reconciliation bill, nearly 500,000 acres of public lands in Utah and Nevada were identified for expidited sale/exchange. The guys break this down, and give some options for staying engaged in the process. 

    Public Land Sales and Congressional Budget Reconciliation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 80:05


    You've probably seen the rumors about selling public lands using a process called Reconciliation. But, what exactly is that process, and what would it mean for public lands. The guys break down the Reconciliation process, and why public lands are on the radar of some law makers. Then, they talk about the Federal Land Transaction Facilitation Act, and explain why selling lands that may even already be deemed suitable for disposal through Reconciliation vs. the established process through FLPMA would only serve to hurt public lands. Lastly, they'll talk about what you can do to get involved. Oh, yeah, they also have a bro-country battle that nearly gets Nephi expelled from the podcast. 

    Millions of Acres Unlocked: The Corner Crossing Decision

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 55:53


    The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals just found that corner crossing--the act of crossing from one parcel of federal land to another parcel of federal land while momentarily passing through the airspace of a private landowner--is legal (in 6 states). Dave and Nephi explain the decision, talk about the states where the judgment applies, and what it means for hunters, anglers, and recreationists everywhere.  If you've listened to prior episodes, you know we've been urging restraint and seeking more clarity from the court. This opinion provides that clarity. Join us in tipping our hats to the four hunters who endured years of legal stress, and their lawyers that skillfully litigated the case. The public will benefit because of it. 

    What Do the Secretary of the Interior's Recent Orders Mean

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2025 68:29


    This episode is wonkier than most--and that's saying something. Newly minted Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum, recently issued a series of Secretarial Orders that have some in the conservation space criticizing him. Dave and Nephi give a civics 101 and explain what a Secretarial Order is and what they do. Next, they dive into some of the orders Secretary Burgum issued and explain what they do. Spoiler: Not much--yet. If you like fast pace and drama, this episode might not be for you. In fact, both Nephi and Dave got distracted doing other things while recording. But, if you're interested in learning about some of the nuts and bolts that may ultimately lead to some drama, tune in. 

    Thousands Fired at Federal Land Management Agencies

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 73:42


    Thousands of federal employees within the country's land management agencies were recently laid off.  Dave and Nephi try to explain what happened, why it happened, and what it could mean for everything from grizzly bear delisting to enjoying your national parks. They also tell you who to contact if you've got concerns. Lastly, Dave made a mistake in this one by identifying the wrong position title of someone let go--but it doesn't change the impact. It's a bit of a somber discussion, but a necessary one--and one many of you asked us to discuss.  

    A Grizzly Decision

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 69:09


    In early Jamuary, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service issued a proposed rule that denied Montana and Wyoming's petition to delist grizzly bears in the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems. The reasons behind the decision are complicated. Dave and Nephi explain what happened, and what the decision could mean for grizzlies going forward. 

    US Supreme Court Declines Utah's Public Lands Case

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 15:00


    In this quick hitter, Dave and Nephi provide an update on the State of Utah's efforts to dispose of public lands--calling their perpetual ownership by the federal government unconstitutional. In a one sentence order, the United States Supreme Court declined to exercise its original jurisdiction and hear Utah's case. The guys explain the decision and what comes next for Utah, and for public lands.

    What to Expect When You're Expecting a New Administration

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 63:28


    Dave and Nephi talk about what to expect as the Biden administration winds down and transitions to the Trump administration. They discuss what could happen to recent decisions of the Biden administration in the new administration, what the Congressional Review Act is and how will it apply, what last minute secretarial or directors mean, what to expect from the incoming Secretary of Interior on energy policy and conservation, the power of hunter/angler voices in a new administration, and more. They also discuss their 2024 elk hunting season, which including Nephi outperforming Dave.

    The Lost Episode with Jim Heffelfinger, Chris Parish and Leland Brown

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2024 72:13


    Dave and Nephi recorded this episode in a back room of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Conferfence in September of 2024, and thought the file was lost forever, but some Nephi wizardry brought it back from the dead. The guys are joined by renound wildlife biologist, Jim Heffelfinger, as well as Chris Parish and Leland Brown of the North American Partnership.  They share some of the major takeaways from this leading edge conference including: better ways to facilitate species recovery through creative application of the Endangered Species Act, and voluntary programs to reduce lead impacts on wildlife including ammo buy-back, use of different ammunitition types, and best management practices in the field. Everyone also shares their "mountain." This episode was worth the three month wait! Check it out!

    13 More States Support Public Lands Disposal

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 85:08


    13 states have joined Utah in calling for the disposal of public lands. Dave and Nephi discuss which states, and what this means. They also discuss the banning of recreational shooting in Bears Ears National Monument, and provide an update on a bill that would allow Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania. We call this segment--how to kill a bill. 

    How We Kill Birds

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 11, 2024 58:19


    Bird numbers are down sharply across North America over the past 50 years. Dave and Nephi dive into some of the data about what's killing all the birds, and discuss a little bit about what can be done to mitigate some of the losses. Hint: cats don't come out looking great in this episode.

    Utah Goes All In On Public Lands Disposal Effort

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2024 90:06


    In late August, the state of Utah asked the United States Supreme Court to hear a case, where if Utah prevails, it could force the federal government to sell, transfer, or otherwise dispose of more than 18 million acres of public lands in Utah, and potentially hundreds of millions of acres of public lands across the country to states, or the highest bidder. Dave and Nephi take a deep dive into the issue discussing topics like: Utah's claims, how we got here, whether a decision favorable to Utah would include lands outside of Utah or lands beyond the Bureau of Land Management. They also discuss what happens if the Supreme Court declines to hear the case (hint: that's not the end of it), what they might want legislatively, their $12 million public education campaign, and other things you should know about this effort. If you are passionate about public lands, you should not miss this episode!

    Ballot Box Biology with Gaspar Perricone

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2024 67:18


    Organizers in Colorado gathered enough signatures to put a proposal to end mountain lion and bobcat hunting on the ballot this fall. Gaspar Perricone has been fighting this, and other ballot box biology efforts for years. He joins Dave and Nephi to discuss what it all means for the future of hunting and wildlife management. The guys also raise a glass to former co-host Mike McGrady for his recent appointment to a judgeship. Audio is a little choppy in spots, but don't let that keep you from listening to this important episode. 

    Project 2025: What it Means for Wildlife and Public Lands

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 78:45


    A lot of people in the media have opinions on Project 2025, a conservative think tank's vision for a republican led government. But, has anyone actually read it? Dave and Nephi breakdown what it actually says about the future of public lands and wildlife. Spoiler: it's a mixed bag. The guys also discuss a new innovative pilot project to encourage non-lead ammunition use on certain National Wildlife Refuges around the country. Double Spoiler: Nephi is fresh out of knee surgery and still a bit groggy at the time of recording, which means he doesn't hold back! 

    SCOTUS Overturns the Chevron Doctrine: What it Means

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 88:45


    The Supreme Court recently overturned the 40 year old Chevron Doctrine, which required courts to give discretion to agency interpretations of the statutes Congress entrusted them with administering. Dave and Nephi break down the history of the Chevorn Doctrine, what the Supreme Court actually said, and what the pros and cons of this decision could be.  

    The BLM Public Lands Rule

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 80:11


    Dave is getting lazy. It took him almost a month to publish this episode after recording it. However, the timing is still good. Recently the States of Wyoming and Utah sued the federal government to challenge the Bureau of Land Management's controversial "Public Lands Rule". In this episode, Dave and Nephi discuss the rule. What it does. What it doesn't do. Where the concerns are valid, and where they could be misplaced. Lots to unpack in this one. 

    The Wolf Torture Fallout; EXPLORE Act passes House; Court Decides Tribal Treaty Hunting Rights Case

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2024 67:06


    The guys break down a number of current events in hunting and conservation. First, they condem the torture and killing of a wolf in Wyoming. Then, they analyze ways to address a gap in the law to ensure behavior like this is appropriately punished if it ever occurs again. Next, they break down the U.S. House passing the EXPLORE Act and a recent court decision in the long running Tribal Treaty hunting rights case of Herrera v. Wyoming. Other topics include, a safe storage firearms bill in Minnesota, a teaser on sage grouse management plans in the west, joining the Pennsylvania Game Commission's Annual Meeting, a thank you to a retiring state wildlife agency director, and more. Tell us what you think at yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com.

    Ethics of Technology in Hunting

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2024 92:54


    Technological innovations are a way of life and influence hunters every year. State wildlife agencies and state legislatures are constantly trying to balance principles of fair chase with the benefits of new technology to hunters. In this episode, the guys discuss some of that technology and debate whether or not it should be used in hunting. Technologies discussed include: Drones, long range rifles, cross bows, trail cams, magnified optics, suppressors, radios, calls, decoys, electronic calls, expanding bullets, e-bikes, thermals, artifical light, gps, and more. Agree or disagree with the discussion? Let us know at yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com.    

    The Decades Long Wolf Delisting Fight Continues

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2024 80:17


    Earlier in February, the US Fish and Wildlife Service made a determination that a population of wolves delisted years ago in the Western United States should not be relisted under the Endangered Species Act. However, the decision is more complicated than that, and could create some unintended consequences for these states down the line. The guys explain that, and the entire legal history that got us to this point.  

    Pontificating on the Complexity of State Hunting/Fishing Regulations - and Other Stuff

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2024 79:10


    Dave and Nephi recorded this episode in January to, among other things, alert non-resident hunters of changes to elk hunting application processes in Wyoming. Of course, they didn't release the episode until mid-February--after the application deadline. So, hopefully it helps for 2025. Other topics discussed include: upcoming sage grouse management plans, the complexitiy of state hunting/fishing regulations, hunting state lands in Nebraska, wolf release in Colorado, corner crossing, and more. Want more frequent episodes? Shoot us a note and let us know at  yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com. 

    Land for Sale in the Tetons and Challenging a Hunter Harassment Law in Wisconsin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2024 85:28


    In an episode recorded a month ago, but only released today because Dave dropped the ball on doing his part to keep this podcast going, the guys discuss a controversial state land disposal proposal near Grand Teton National Park and a recent 7th Circuit Court of Appeals decision regarding the constitutionality of Wisconsin's hunter harassment law. Other topics include: Nephi possessing the rifle that gave Steven Rinella trichinosis, a first elk story, and Dave shamelessly plugs a recently published book that includes a chapter he wrote. It's available everywhere...that sells books about the Endangered Species Act. Take a listen, and we'll record more! 

    Wolves, Mountain Lions, MapWaters Act, and Elk Hunting

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 68:48


    Hunting season is well underway, which means the guys aren't recording much, and when they do they take weeks to publish. However, they found time to sit down and talk about some current events that hunters and anglers should care about. They discuss: collaboration in SW Wyoming on land use planning; wolf reintroduction; ballot box biology strikes again in Colorado to try to end mountain lion and bobcat hunting; and the MapWater Act. They also recount their elk hunting experience this fall. Spoiler alert: only one of them punched their tag, and it wasn't Nephi. 

    Having a Voice in Federal Land Management Planning

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 76:32


    The guys sit down with Josh Coursey, CEO of the Muley Fanatic Foundation and host of the Wild Things & Wild Places podcast, to discuss a controversial Resource Management Plan (RMP) in Southwest Wyoming. They correct misinformation about the draft RMP,  speak to the importance of local collaboratives, explain how the Bureau of Land Management could have more effectively rolled out the draft, and dive deeply into the importance of participating in the planning process. Then, Josh shares his Mountain. Whether you are from Wyoming, or enjoy public lands elsewhere in the country, this episode gives you some important tips on how to make your voice heard. 

    Wildlife Conservation with Chris Tymeson of Safari Club International

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2023 74:10


    Chris Tymeson earns his gold jacket by joining the guys for the fifth time--this time representing Safari Club International (SCI). They discuss the history of SCI, and the type of legal and governmental affairs work SCI does on behalf of hunters around the country and world. In a Your Mountain first, Chris also arbitrates a series of disputes between Dave and Nephi. They also share a tribute to a giant of conservation, the late Miles Moretti. Tune in!

    The Summer Conservation Rundown

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 54:01


    Dave and Nephi are back after taking a podcasing summer break. In this episode, the guys run down some of the biggest conservation stories that took place while they were climbing peaks, fishing, and entering shooting competitions. Topics include: a new national monument, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Evnironmental Protection Agency and waters of the US, National Public Lands Day, National Hunting and Fishing Day, and Dave tries to ruin Nephi's elk hunt before it even starts.   

    New Oil and Gas Leasing Rules from BLM

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2023 91:25


    The Bureau of Land Management just released a draft rule that, if finalized, would significantly change the way in which oil and gas leases are issued on public lands. The guys break down what it means for the industry, and the public at large. They also offer a tip of the hat to Backcountry Hunter and Anglers CEO, Land Tawney. 

    Support for Hunting in the United States Declines

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2023 79:31


    A recent study shows that support for hunting, fishing, trapping, and the shooting sports in the United States has declined over the past 3 years (though it's still very high). The guys dive into the results, what it means for hunters and anglers, and things to think about to ensure strong public support long into the future.  

    SCOTUS defines Waters of the United States

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2023 97:39


    Jonathan Wood from the Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) joins the guys to discuss a landmark SCOTUS case, Sackett v. EPA, which defines "waters of the United States" under the Clean Water Act.  They break down the decision and explain what it means for states, landowners, hunters, and others. Johathan also shares his Mountain. Don't miss this episode--it certainly isn't dry.  

    The Corner Crossing Decision

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2023 83:13


    In a long anticipated decision, a Federal judge recently found that four hunters did not commit a civil trespass when corner crossing in Wyoming's checkerboard lands. Great news for those four hunters, but what about the rest of us? Is corner crossing now legal? The guys break down the decision and explain what it might mean for you as you plan your public land hunt this fall. Spoiler: the decision doesn't go as far as you might think.

    The Bureau of Land Management's Proposed Conservation Rule

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2023 84:48


    The Bureau of Land Management is proposing a new rule that would allow companies, individuals, and NGOs to lease lands for restoration. They also propose to elevate conservation as a multiple use on par with other land uses. This proposal has generated some controversy. Dave and Nephi assign themselves different perspectives and discuss. 

    The Politics of Wildlife Management

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2023 70:09


    Congress is considering several bills that would remove a number of species from the protections of the Endangered Species Act. Dave and Nephi discuss them. Other topics include: bird flu in California condors; catastrophic losses of pronghorn and mule deer this winter; Wyoming's corner crossing case; and the Colorado legislature's new action on wolf reintroduction (note: the bill has passed since recording this episode).

    Breaking down Willow (not the classic 1980s film)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2023 80:13


    The Biden administration recently gave the green light to a controversial oil project in northern Alaska. Dave and Nephi wade into the issue. They discuss why many in the conservation world oppose it, why others support it--including how it fits into the national security debate and the climate debate. They also provide an update on a New Mexico stream access case, provide a PSA about leaving stressed wildlife alone, answer a listener question about lead/copper ammunition, and preview a future episode of the Your Mountain podcast. 

    Advocacy and Grizzlies: Making a Point vs. Making a Difference

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2023 57:03


    The US Fish and Wildlife Service recently announced it would consider Montana's and Wyoming's petitions to delist grizzly bears. The guys do a deep dive into the decision, the state politics, the legal process, and what it means for grizzly bears in the West.  They also discuss a frustrating trend in state legislatures, and Dave encourages attending a convention that's already occurred! Check us out, and then shoot us a note at yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com

    Boundary Waters, Tongass, and the Strategic Petroleum Reserve

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2023 72:11


    Dave and Nephi break down a bill that could require leasing tens of millions of acres of public land to replenish the strategic petroleum reserve. They also discuss the administration's decision to prevent mineral leasing in the Boundary Waters area of northern Minnesota, and to reinstate roadless rule protections in Alaska's Tongass National Forest. Finally, the guys discuss a proposal to allow mountain lion pursuit with dogs after a tag's been filled. Enjoying the content? Ideas for an episode? Let us know. Send an email to yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com, rate us, and find us on social media @itsyourmountain.  

    Wolves, Bears, and Bills

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2023 92:12


    Grizzly bears and wolves remain hot topics. Dave and Nephi provide an update on Colorado's efforts to reintroduce wolves, and how the public can get involved in the process. Then, they break down a recent 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decision that challenged grizzly bear recovery plans, and discuss what the decision means for bear recovery/delisting. Next, the guys highlight a few bills circulating in state legislatures that are worth following, including bills about corner crossing, hunting predators with infrared technology, lead alternative programs, range day requirements for hunters education, and more. Other topics include: Safari Club International's wildlife law CLE, a Mule Deer Foundation banquet, SHOT Show, and more.  

    Lead Ammunition on Wildlife Refuges and the Colorado River Water Catastrophe

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2022 88:13


    Dave and Nephi end 2022 discussing some hot topics in conservation, including a Recovering America's Widlife Act update (update since recording: it didn't pass in 2022), and teeing up a needed deeper dive into the Montana Crazy Mountains access saga. They also discuss the resolution of a recent case brought by Center for Biological Diversity challenging lead use on wildlife refuges, which gets Nephi a bit fired up. Next, they give a 30,000 ft view of the Colorado River Compact, the river system, and the unprecedented drought that is pushing the west toward the biggest water war this country has ever seen. Tune in, and then join us for more new episodes in 2023!

    Whose Land is it Anyway: Contentious Access Issues in the West

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2022 89:01


    Jonathan Wood, Vice President of Law & Policy at the Property and Environment Research Center (PERC), joins the guys to discuss some contentious access issues in the West. They dive into a New Mexico stream access case that may find its way to the US Supreme Court, and then provide an update on a land access dispute in the Crazy Mountains of Montana. Other topics include: whether Nephi should host the podcast; market-based envionmental solutions; listing the lesser priaire chicken; Jonathan's mountain; and more. Enjoying the podcast? Give us a 5 star rating, follow us on social media, send us an email at yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com; and most importantly--tell your friends. Thanks for the support--it means everything. 

    From Scarcity to Abundance: The History of Game Management

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2022 74:06


    The guys take a deep dive into the history of wildlife management in America, using Wyoming's journey as as example. They discuss: how wildlife laws progressed from the 1860s to the modern era; how important the Pittman-Robertson Act passing was to state management efforts; what revenues make up state wildlife agency budgets; why the firearms industry supports the Pittman-Robertson Act, what the Recovering America's Wildlife Act would do for states; and more. They also try to match attorneys with conservation organizations in need of pro bono legal services. Take a listen, and then email yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com with future show ideas.  

    The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Mexican Gray Wolf Recovery

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2022 97:21


    Renowned biologist, and Wildlife Science Coordinator for the Arizona Game & Fish Department, Jim Hellelfinger, joins the podcast for a deep dive into the good science, bad science, politics, influencers, successes, and failures associated with Mexican gray wolf recovery. Jim's captivating story spans several decades and will leave you both appreciating and questioning science and the motives of people. It will also leave you with a better understanding of what it takes to recover carismatic and controversial species under the Endangered Species Act. Tune in--you won't regret it!  

    Banned Birds from Canada, and a Dubious Damage Claim

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2022 62:56


    In this episode, Dave asks for help understanding the impacts Eurasian collared doves have on mourning doves. The guys also discuss the issues surrounding importing harvested game birds from Canada; how the damages claimed by the landowner in Wyoming's corner-crossing case are a head scratcher; and new attacks on the Pittman-Robertson Act from some in the environmental community. Tune in. Have show ideas? Send them to us at yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com. 

    RETURN Act, Corner Crossing, and the Senate's Inflation Reduction Act

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2022 81:05


    Dave and Nephi provide updates on the RETURN Act (Pittman-Robertson defunding act) and the infamous corner crossing case from Wyoming. Then they dive into the freshly passed (as of today) Inflation Reduction Act. Love the bill or hate it, the guys don't care. They just hope to cut through the hyperpartisan politics dominating the airwaves, and let you know some of the pieces in the bill that would send funding towards conservation. Take a listen, and tell your friends about the Your Mountain Podcast!

    A Federal Proposal to Gut Wildlife Funding for States

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2022 63:33


    In late June, nearly 5 dozen members of Congress co-sponsored a bill that would end the 100+ year excise tax on firearms and ammunition, which contributes more than $1.1 billion to state wildlife agencies each year. Dave and Nephi explain the history of the Pittman-Robertson Act, break down the bill, discuss how the excise taxes are used, and explain why the bill won't pass but needs the hunting community to kill it anyway. Take a listen, and then call your Congressman. 

    Permanent Wildlife Funding Nears and 70,000 Acres of New Public Access

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022 50:54


    After a month away from recording due to Nephi building a house and Dave completing a fellowship in Europe, the guys are back. They discuss Recoving America's Wildlife Act, the major Congressional hurdle it cleared, and when it might become law. They also discuss a land acquisition by the Bureau of Land Management in Wyoming that creates access to 70,000 of public land, and the controversy surrounding the purchase. Other topics include: hunting draw results, Nephi moving, why soccer is a boring, and more. Tune in, and if you have ideas for future episodes, shoot us a note at: yourmountain@itsyourmountain.com 

    Corner Crossing Update and Proposed Lead Ammunition Ban

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2022 78:36


    The guys discuss a recent bill in Congress that would ban lead ammunition on US Fish and Willdife Service lands. They also jump back into the corner crossing issue with an analysis of the Wyoming litigation. Other topics include, transferrable landowner tags, National Corndog Day, why Nephi constantly interrupts Dave, and a teaser on a Sunday hunting case in Maine. Tune in!

    The Open Fields Doctrine and the 4th Amendment

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2022 77:52


    After a long absence, Mike McGrady rejoins the podcast to discuss the open fields doctrine and search and seizure laws under state and federal constitutions. They explain what the open fields doctrine is, the cases that gave rise to it during prohibition, and a recent Tennessee decision limiting a game warden's ability to enter private property. Other topics include: trona mining, and the importance of the 4th Amendment. 

    The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation with Tim Brass of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2022 80:13


    Tim Brass of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joins the guys to talk about the North American Model of Wildlife Management. Topics include: what is the model; does the model work; what are the biggest threats to the model; should we rethink the model; Tim's mountain; and more. 

    The Energy Debate

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2022 62:07


    NOTE: THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED PRIOR TO THE US BANNING RUSSIAN OIL IMPORTS, BUT THE MATERIAL REMAINS RELEVANT TODAY.  Nephi and Dave discuss oil and gas policy in the US since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Topics include: the problems with the “drill baby drill” and “keep it in the ground” mindsets; why energy companies aren't drilling; why renewable energy has its own challenges; balancing development and conservation; will we have more ammo shortages; and more. 

    Relisting Wolves (again)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2022 57:24


    A Federal District Court just reinstated protections for wolves in 44 states, and the Fish and Wildlife Service announced they will consider whether to relist wolves in the Northern Rockies. What does this all mean? Dave and Nephi dive in, but leave a lot of questions on the table for a future episode. Tune in. 

    Thinking Outside the Box: The Path for State Management of Federally Listed Species

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2022 76:43


    The guys discuss an idea to use the Endangered Species Act in a way that encourages state management of federally listed species. They also discuss: late velvet in mule deer; a bad goose hunt; a good goose hunt; hunting wolves near Yellowstone National Park; appreciation of wildlife professionals; and more. 

    Suppressors and Other Hunting Technology with John Burns of Wyoming Arms

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 18, 2022 95:21


    Dave and Nephi are joined by John Burns of Wyoming Arms to talk about technology in hunting. They talk about the importance of range finders, and then take a deep dive into the history and use of suppressors, including new changes in processing paperwork to purchase a suppressor. Other topics include Dave's recent elk hunt; Nephi finally getting a goose hunt invite;  remote game cameras; Wyoming Arms; John's Mountain; and more.

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