Podcasts about colorado river basin

Gugs Mhlungu speaks to Prof Anthony Turton, trained scientist specializing in water resource management, about alarming new data showing rapid groundwater depletion in the Colorado River Basin and exploring whether South Africa faces similar risks. 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station, on Saturdays and Sundays Gugs Mhlungu gets you ready for the weekend each Saturday and Sunday morning on 702. She is your weekend wake-up companion, with all you need to know for your weekend. The topics Gugs covers range from lifestyle, family, health, and fitness to books, motoring, cooking, culture, and what is happening on the weekend in 702land. Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu. Listen live on Primedia+ on Saturdays and Sundays from 06:00 and 10:00 (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/u3Sf7Zy or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BIXS7AL Subscribe to the 702 daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the development initiatives affected by the Trump Administration's shutdown of USAID is the Soybean Innovation Lab, which works to improve soybean yields and production in Africa to help boost farmers' income. Our guest discusses her work with the Soybean Innovation Lab and why helping improve farmers' yields is so fulfilling. Also, a recent study finds the Colorado River Basin has lost a tremendous amount of water in the last two decades, in part from thirsty farms pumping groundwater much faster than it can be replenished. We discuss the “Wild West” of unregulated groundwater, potential solutions and why the rapid depletion of ancient groundwater threatens the water supply for future generations. And the winner of the 2025 Goldman Environmental Prize for Asia was raised as a Mongolian herder and later became an engineer who worked on mining projects in the mineral-rich country. But when he learned that the Mongolian government was planning to mine the sacred Hutag mountain, he sprang into action. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Runoff in the Colorado River is expected to be 55 percent of normal this year which means Lake Mead water levels will drop. Lake levels and inflows to the lake can impact our drinking water supply. Limnologists Todd Tietjen and Deena Hannoun share how their research helps protect our drinking water, and how their studies help other Colorado River Basin water agencies on this episode of the Water Smarts Podcast. Hosts: Bronson Mack and Crystal Zuelkehttps://www.snwa.com/https://www.snwa.com/

Last week, news broke that the depletion of groundwater across the Colorado River Basin has been quietly, rapidly outpacing the more visible decline of the river itself. Even as the seven basin states negotiate reduced consumption of river water—inevitably driving dependence toward local aquifers instead—this newly published research shows that the majority ofmost of the water lost throughout the basin in recent years has been underground. In the Lower Colorado River Basin alone, groundwater has accounted for 71% of total water supply loss.  Jay Famiglietti, a longtime contributor to Ten Across, specializes in the use of satellite data to monitor the world's groundwater mass. His team's new findings focus on the U.S. Southwest—a region at the forefront of the nation's water supply challenges and the complex balances between resource limitations and economic growth.  As states and cities in the Colorado River Basin and elsewhere develop water management strategies to sustain themselves through future constraints, a growing understanding of groundwater supply is key to effective proactive policy. It is increasingly clear that time is of the essence for this uniquely finite resource.   Listen in as Ten Across founder Duke Reiter and Jay Famiglietti discuss the concrete findings in this report, the immediate and long-term implications for agriculture in the Southwest, and Jay's motivations for raising awareness of groundwater usage in the Ten Across region and beyond.  Relevant articles and resources:  Read the open access study: “Declining Freshwater Availability in the Colorado River Basin Threatens Sustainability of Its Critical Groundwater Supplies”  Read The Washington Post's analysis  More analysis from The Guardian and Inside Climate News  Catch up on the Colorado River negotiations  Listen to Jay's first podcast appearance  Related headlines:   “ADWR Director Briefs UA Water Resources Research Center Conference on Colorado River Negotiations” (azwater.gov, June 2025)  “It's not just big alfalfa farms. La Paz residents fear groundwater grab by big cities” (Arizona Republic, June 2025)  “Arizona wants this city to cut its groundwater use. Residents want flexibility” (Arizona Republic, May 2025)  “Even in wet years, wells are still dry. Why replenishing California's groundwater is painfully slow” (Cal Matters, February 2025)  “Opinion: Will We Have to Pump the Great Lakes to California to Feed the Nation?” (The New York Times, August 2024)  Credits:Host: Duke ReiterProducer and editor: Taylor GriffithMusic by: Lupus Nocte and TellsonicResearch and support provided by: Kate Carefoot, Rae Ulrich, and Sabine Butler

On today's newscast: Groundwater supplies in the Colorado River Basin are rapidly drying up, Mohave County supervisor has revived efforts to hand-count ballots, one of the largest egg providers in the Southwest lost 95% most of its chickens to the bird flu, Payson police are investigating the death of a 74-year-old hiker, and more.

Conservation Is Not Enough: Rethinking Relationships with Water in the Arid Southwest (University of Wyoming Press, 2025) by Dr. Janine Schipper reconsiders the most basic assumptions about water issues in the Southwest, revealing why conservation alone will not lead to a sustainable water future. The book undertakes a thorough examination of the prevailing “conservation ethos” deeply ingrained in the culture, critically analyzing its historical roots and shedding light on its problems and inherent limitations. Additionally, it explores deep ecology and an Indigenous water ethos, offering radically different ways of understanding and experiencing water. Using an exploratory and qualitative approach, Dr. Schipper draws on more than ninety-five interviews conducted over three years, revealing the complex relationships people have with water in the Southwest, and prominently features the voices of participants, effectively illustrating multiple perspectives and diverse ways of thinking about and relating to water. Schipper highlights various perspectives—including a water manager making conservation decisions, a Hopi elder emphasizing our connection to the water cycle, and a ski instructor reflecting on human-made snow—and interweaves personal experiences and reflections on her own relationship with water and conservation efforts. Conservation Is Not Enough encourages readers to reflect on their personal connections to water and consider new possibilities, and it also urges readers to think beyond conventional conservation approaches. This book helps to transform the collective approach to water and cultivate fresh ways of engaging with and relating to water and is of great interest to scholars, students, and residents concerned with water issues in the Colorado River Basin. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/environmental-studies

Conservation Is Not Enough: Rethinking Relationships with Water in the Arid Southwest (University of Wyoming Press, 2025) by Dr. Janine Schipper reconsiders the most basic assumptions about water issues in the Southwest, revealing why conservation alone will not lead to a sustainable water future. The book undertakes a thorough examination of the prevailing “conservation ethos” deeply ingrained in the culture, critically analyzing its historical roots and shedding light on its problems and inherent limitations. Additionally, it explores deep ecology and an Indigenous water ethos, offering radically different ways of understanding and experiencing water. Using an exploratory and qualitative approach, Dr. Schipper draws on more than ninety-five interviews conducted over three years, revealing the complex relationships people have with water in the Southwest, and prominently features the voices of participants, effectively illustrating multiple perspectives and diverse ways of thinking about and relating to water. Schipper highlights various perspectives—including a water manager making conservation decisions, a Hopi elder emphasizing our connection to the water cycle, and a ski instructor reflecting on human-made snow—and interweaves personal experiences and reflections on her own relationship with water and conservation efforts. Conservation Is Not Enough encourages readers to reflect on their personal connections to water and consider new possibilities, and it also urges readers to think beyond conventional conservation approaches. This book helps to transform the collective approach to water and cultivate fresh ways of engaging with and relating to water and is of great interest to scholars, students, and residents concerned with water issues in the Colorado River Basin. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Conservation Is Not Enough: Rethinking Relationships with Water in the Arid Southwest (University of Wyoming Press, 2025) by Dr. Janine Schipper reconsiders the most basic assumptions about water issues in the Southwest, revealing why conservation alone will not lead to a sustainable water future. The book undertakes a thorough examination of the prevailing “conservation ethos” deeply ingrained in the culture, critically analyzing its historical roots and shedding light on its problems and inherent limitations. Additionally, it explores deep ecology and an Indigenous water ethos, offering radically different ways of understanding and experiencing water. Using an exploratory and qualitative approach, Dr. Schipper draws on more than ninety-five interviews conducted over three years, revealing the complex relationships people have with water in the Southwest, and prominently features the voices of participants, effectively illustrating multiple perspectives and diverse ways of thinking about and relating to water. Schipper highlights various perspectives—including a water manager making conservation decisions, a Hopi elder emphasizing our connection to the water cycle, and a ski instructor reflecting on human-made snow—and interweaves personal experiences and reflections on her own relationship with water and conservation efforts. Conservation Is Not Enough encourages readers to reflect on their personal connections to water and consider new possibilities, and it also urges readers to think beyond conventional conservation approaches. This book helps to transform the collective approach to water and cultivate fresh ways of engaging with and relating to water and is of great interest to scholars, students, and residents concerned with water issues in the Colorado River Basin. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/native-american-studies

Conservation Is Not Enough: Rethinking Relationships with Water in the Arid Southwest (University of Wyoming Press, 2025) by Dr. Janine Schipper reconsiders the most basic assumptions about water issues in the Southwest, revealing why conservation alone will not lead to a sustainable water future. The book undertakes a thorough examination of the prevailing “conservation ethos” deeply ingrained in the culture, critically analyzing its historical roots and shedding light on its problems and inherent limitations. Additionally, it explores deep ecology and an Indigenous water ethos, offering radically different ways of understanding and experiencing water. Using an exploratory and qualitative approach, Dr. Schipper draws on more than ninety-five interviews conducted over three years, revealing the complex relationships people have with water in the Southwest, and prominently features the voices of participants, effectively illustrating multiple perspectives and diverse ways of thinking about and relating to water. Schipper highlights various perspectives—including a water manager making conservation decisions, a Hopi elder emphasizing our connection to the water cycle, and a ski instructor reflecting on human-made snow—and interweaves personal experiences and reflections on her own relationship with water and conservation efforts. Conservation Is Not Enough encourages readers to reflect on their personal connections to water and consider new possibilities, and it also urges readers to think beyond conventional conservation approaches. This book helps to transform the collective approach to water and cultivate fresh ways of engaging with and relating to water and is of great interest to scholars, students, and residents concerned with water issues in the Colorado River Basin. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda's interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-west

Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke sits down with Teal Lehto, a passionate water rights activist also known on social media as Western Water Girl. Teal shares insights into her work on public lands protection, the challenges posed by current legislative threats to environment-focused organizations, and the critical issues facing the Colorado River Basin. The episode delves deep into the complexities of water politics across Southwestern U.S. deserts. Teal discusses the antiquated water usage system governed by the doctrine of prior appropriation and its impact on current water scarcities. The conversation explores the political stand-off between upper and lower basin states within the Colorado River framework, highlighting the contentious role agriculture, particularly alfalfa farming, plays in the ongoing water crisis. Reflecting on her journey from frustrated activist to social media influencer, Teal elucidates how she has become a vital communicator of water issues, navigating both support and the vitriol commonly aimed at women in digital spaces. Key Takeaways: Advocacy Amidst Executive Orders: Teal explores current executive orders threatening public lands and non-profit environmental groups, emphasizing their purpose to dismantle the protections that keep these landscapes safe. Colorado River Basin Stalemate: The historical water distribution system faces scrutiny as upper and lower basin states stall on new guidelines essential for preserving water resources. Social Media as a Platform for Change: Teal's rise as Western Water Girl began as a reaction to being sidelined; now she uses Instagram and TikTok to educate thousands on water issues. Prominent Issues in Water Management: The widespread impact of alfalfa farming on water resources underlines a significant yet under-addressed element of Western water politics. The Influence of Engaging Narratives: Authentic content creation on TikTok significantly impacts environmental communication, allowing Western Water Girl to reach and inspire a broad audience. Notable Quotes: "I never started my platform expecting it to blow up. Like, I literally told my partner that if five people see my video, it'll make me feel better." - Teal Lehto "You can actually have a pretty direct impact on what side of the Internet somebody's content goes to just by leaving a comment." - Teal Lehto "People are really into engaging with water equity because it's so mind-blowing to learn the Navajo Nation only has running water in one out of each three homes." - Teal Lehto Resources: Teal Lehto on Social Media: Follow @westernwatergirl on TikTok and Instagram for updates and education on water politics. 90 Miles from Needles Podcast Website: For more episodes and donation opportunities, visit 90MilesFromNeedles.com (https://90milesfromneedles.com).Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's newscast: A few hundred protesters gathered yesterday at Sayre Park in Glenwood Springs for the May Day National Day of Action, highlighting concerns over cuts to public programs and the targeting of immigrants; a new report shows the Trump administration's plans to repeal clean-energy tax credits could increase energy bills for households; and while snowpack was near normal for much of the upper Colorado River Basin this winter, drought forecasters say the spring runoff will be well below normal. Tune in for these stories and more.

In this episode of 21st Century Water, we sit down with John J. Entsminger, General Manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) and the Las Vegas Valley Water District. John oversees the water supply for 2.5 million residents and 40 million visitors annually in one of the most water-stressed regions of the United States. He shares his journey from environmental law to leading a major water utility and highlights the pivotal moments that shaped his approach to water management, including the 2002 Colorado River drought and the 2007-2009 recession.John explains the vast scale of SNWA's infrastructure, from its 250 miles of massive pipelines to the 7,000 miles of distribution lines in the Las Vegas Valley Water District. With climate change and cybersecurity as the biggest challenges facing water utilities, he emphasizes how SNWA has aggressively tackled conservation. Through innovative measures like removing non-functional turf, enforcing watering schedules, and deploying water enforcement officers, Southern Nevada has added 800,000 people since 2002 while reducing total water consumption by 35-40%.We discuss the importance of strategic investments, including a $1.5 billion low-lake-level pumping station at Lake Mead, designed purely for redundancy to secure supply. John also shares insights into international and interstate water negotiations, where he has played a key role in agreements involving the seven Colorado River Basin states and Mexico. He highlights the delicate balance of ensuring every party “loses” just enough to reach a compromise that sustains long-term water management.A key advantage for Las Vegas is its ability to recycle nearly 100% of indoor water use. Thanks to its unique geography, all wastewater is treated and returned to Lake Mead, allowing for legal return flow credits. The city's only significant water losses come from outdoor irrigation, evaporative cooling, and septic systems, which SNWA is actively addressing. John also discusses their use of innovative leak detection technology, AI-powered predictive maintenance, and automated metering to enhance efficiency.One remarkable case study is how SNWA worked with Formula 1 to make the Las Vegas Grand Prix the first net-positive water race in history. By offsetting race-related water use with an atmospheric water generator installed at MGM, the event saved more water than it consumed. John sees AI playing an increasing role in optimizing pipeline maintenance and customer leak detection, making conservation even more effective.Another is the building 54 weirs, which are erosion-controlled structures to slow down the water. And over the last 20 years, the number one source of materials for those weirs is imploded old casinos.As we wrap up, John reflects on his legacy, emphasizing pragmatism and the importance of speaking truth to power. His leadership has positioned Southern Nevada as a global model for water conservation and resilience, proving that even in the face of extreme scarcity, strategic planning and innovation can secure a sustainable water future.More: Las Vegas Valley Water District: https://www.lvvwd.com/Southern Nevada Water Authority: https://www.snwa.com/ Aquasight Website: https://aquasight.io/

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, "California City," listeners uncover the tantalizing history and real estate tales of this less-known Mojave Desert town. Michael Elizabeth Sakas captivates audiences with "Parched," a series that unpacks the critical water shortages plaguing the Colorado River Basin. And Jennifer Errick from the National Parks Conservation Association's podcast The Secret Lives of Parks gets Chris and Luke Basulto out in the field to talk desert protection Highlighting gems from these productions, this episode celebrates the intricate beauty and significance of deserts in contemporary discourse. Key Takeaways: Discover various perspectives on wilderness concepts with Marissa Ortega Welch in "How Wild," which critiques the cultural narratives surrounding solitude and wilderness. Explore the thrilling investigative journey of Emily Guerin's podcast "California City" to explore historical and ongoing real estate dynamics in the desert. Gain insights into the pressing water issues facing the Colorado River Basin with Michael Elizabeth Sakas' comprehensive series "Parched." Hear from Jennifer Errick and Luke Basulto on the newly designated Chuckwalla National Monument and the importance of connecting desert landscapes for better ecological health. Resources: How Wild with Marissa Ortega Welch https://www.howwild.org/ California City by Emily Guerin https://laist.com/podcasts/california-city Parched, Hosted by Michael Elizabeth Sakas https://www.cpr.org/podcast/parched/ The Secret Lives of Parks, with Jennifer Errick https://thesecretlivesofparks.org/ The Border Chronicle https:/theborderchronicle.com Desert Oracle https://www.desertoracle.com/radio/ Desert Advocacy Media Network https://thedamn.org Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're diving into an important development in Colorado’s hydropower landscape. The Blue Mesa power plant, part of the Blue Mesa Reservoir on the Gunnison River, is getting some much-needed updates thanks to funding from the Department of the Interior. Let’s break down what this means for the facility and the broader Colorado River Basin.Support the show: https://www.montrosepress.com/site/forms/subscription_services/See 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.

Ever wondered how a simple weather pattern can drastically impact your weekend plans—or even your safety? Join us as we dissect the nation's atmospheric intrigues with meteorologist Steve Pelletier. From a blistering heat wave engulfing the southern plains and Gulf Coast, with temperatures shattering records, to the idyllic conditions gracing the northeast corridor from DC to Boston, we've got you covered. Whether you're basking in the sun along the Jersey Shore or dodging afternoon thunderstorms in Florida, we provide the essential weather updates you need to navigate your week.But that's not all—our episode isn't just about sunny skies and sweltering heat. We dive into the much-needed rainfall rejuvenating the Colorado River Basin and the resulting benefits for Lake Mead. For travelers, we offer a heads-up on possible delays due to heavy thunderstorms in the south and western plains states, particularly in Kansas and Nebraska. Plus, beachgoers can expect a special forecast with slightly cooler weather along the shores. Don't miss our crucial pollen update, detailing the current red weed situation from the Great Lakes to the eastern seaboard. Tune in for these insights and more, as we equip you with the knowledge to enjoy a weather-smart week ahead!

Nancy Smith is the Conservation Director for The Nature Conservancy's Colorado River Program, and Austin Rempel is the Riparian Restoration Program Manager at The Nature Conservancy. Both Nancy and Austin are working on the front lines of some of the West's most innovative water and habitat conservation projects– projects that benefit everything from groundwater supplies to wildlife habitat, climate resiliency to ecosystem health. - If you've listened to many of these TNC-focused episodes, then you'll know that TNC works extensively throughout the Colorado River Basin on a wide range of conservation issues that affect people, wildlife, and landscapes. In this episode, we're going to zoom in on one very specific, very simple, and very effective process that has the potential to have massive positive impacts on ecosystem health throughout the West. - The process is called “low-tech process-based restoration,” which is the practice of adding simple, low-cost structures made of natural materials like rocks, wood, and posts to simulate natural processes like beaver dams in streams and wetlands, kick-starting natural cycles of recovery. These structures require minimal permitting, can be built quickly by hand without heavy equipment, use locally sourced materials, and can be installed by local workers who do not need extensive training. The end result creates surprisingly effective outcomes that can be scaled quickly across vast stretches of the West. - We recorded this conversation the day after Colorado River Day, which was a fitting time to highlight such an important project and process. We started out by discussing how this project came to be, which involved a significant amount of funding from the Inflation Reduction Act. We discuss how rivers have historically looked in the West versus how they look now, as well as the ecological complexities of riverscapes and riparian corridors.  We then dig into the details of “low-tech process-based restoration”-- timelines, challenges, opportunities, partnerships, and measuring success. We also talk about beavers, shifting cultural norms around conservation, overlaps between forest and riparian restoration, favorite books, and much more. - As you'll hear, Nancy and Austin provide such an excellent overview of several varieties of low-tech process-based restoration. But for those of you who want to dig deeper into details of the various processes and case studies, they've provided me with extensive additional resources that you can access in the episode notes. I'd also encourage you to check out the short film embedded on the episode's webpage, which will give you a visual overview of the process and its results. - A big thanks to Nancy and Austin for the fun conversation, and thank you for listening. --- Nancy Smith Austin Rempel Riparian Restoration short film Full episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/nancy-austin/ --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Colorado chapter of The Nature Conservancy and TNC chapters throughout the Western United States. Guided by science and grounded by decades of collaborative partnerships, The Nature Conservancy has a long-standing legacy of achieving lasting results to create a world where nature and people thrive. On the last Tuesday of every month throughout 2024, Mountain & Prairie will be delving into conversations with a wide range of The Nature Conservancy's leaders, partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, highlighting the myriad of conservation challenges, opportunities, and solutions here in the American West and beyond. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy's impactful work in the West and around the world, visit www.nature.org --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 4:00 - Nancy's intro 5:26 - Austin's intro 7:15 - The impact of wet upland meadows on the Colorado River (Nancy) 10:00 - How the Inflation Reduction Act has funded TNC's important partnership work (Nancy) 13:30 - Defining the low-tech, process-based, restoration (LTPBR) involved in this project (Austin) 16:30 - What meadows have historically looked like in the American West (Austin and Nancy) 21:00 - Describing more of the structures TNC uses in this work, like beaver dam analogs (Austin) 26:30 - What kind of land TNC does this restoration work on (Austin) 29:30 - How long this work takes (Austin and Nancy) 33:30 - What success will look like for this work (Nancy) 37:30 - How LTPBRs help empower crucial work by being simple 40:45 - What could make or break this project (Austin and Nancy)  44:00 - TNC's ability to balance innovation with responsible stewardship of funding (Nancy) 46:30 - Overlaps between river and forest restoration (Austin) 50:30 - What would make a good staff member for this work 55:45 - Nancy's book recommendations 57:00 - Austin's book recommendations 59:18 - Nancy's parting words of wisdom 1:00:10 - Austin's parting words of wisdom --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

If you're a longtime Mountain & Prairie listener, then you'll definitely remember Pete McBride. He's a renowned photographer, filmmaker, and author, and he's joined me on the podcast twice before– once to discuss his epic hike of the length of the Grand Canyon, and then to chat about his global search for silence in a very loud world. I'm glad to say that he's back again, and this time, we're chatting about his backyard river– the mighty Colorado– and the challenges, opportunities, and realities facing the people and wildlife that depend on it. - Pete's newest book is titled “The Colorado River: Chasing Water,” and it features Pete's stunning photography and insightful essays, along with a foreword by Nick Paumgarten and an introduction by Kevin Fedarko. The book follows the Colorado River from its headwaters in the Rocky Mountains all the way down to the Colorado River Delta, where it peters out just before reaching the Gulf of California. - I've read a lot of books about the Colorado River and water in the West, but “Chasing Water” opened my eyes to a number of very specific and sometimes-maddening challenges facing the Colorado River Basin. The book delves into issues such as the unchecked exportation of water-intensive alfalfa to foreign countries, how dust leads to increased evaporation and water loss, as well as more optimistic topics, such as how Las Vegas has become an imperfect-yet-inspiring case study in responsible water conservation. But at its core, the book demonstrates Pete's deep love and respect for the Colorado River, and showcases his two decades of dedication to telling the story of this world-famous waterway. - We met up at Pete's house in Basalt, overlooking the Roaring Fork River, and talked about all things water and conservation. We started by talking about Pete's father, and how his advice many years ago led Pete to shift his focus from global adventure photography to the Colorado River. We discussed the disconnect between people and their water sources, the challenge of using an over-appropriated water source to grow food for an entire country, Pete's firsthand experience observing changes in the river and surrounding landscape, his work with Indigenous communities throughout the basin, and his preferences between photography, filmmaking, and writing. We also discuss some of his recent favorite books, and much, much more. - Be sure to check out the episode notes for a full list of everything we discussed and links to all of Pete's books. - A big thanks to Pete for graciously letting me barge into his house and hassle him with questions yet again, and thank you for listening.  --- Pete McBride The Colorado River: Chasing Water by Pete McBride Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World's Quietest Places by Pete McBride The Grand Canyon: Between River and Rim by Pete McBride Into the Grand Canyon documentary Full episode notes & links: https://mountainandprairie.com/pete-mcbride-3/ --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:30 - All the places Pete has seen in the Colorado River watershed 6:30 - How Pete's dad influenced Pete's career  11:30 - The immense changes to the Colorado River over the course of Pete's father's lifetime 13:00 - Reconciling how much of the West's water comes from the Colorado, and how few people know it  14:30 - Pete's hope for his new book 18:00 - Pete's style of writing for this visual book  21:00 - Discussing how much Colorado River water goes to cattle and cattle feed, and the water challenges that face agriculture 29:00 - The impact of dust on Rocky Mountain snow, and how that impacts the Colorado River 34:30 - Highlighting an unexpected water conservation success story: Las Vegas, and how southwestern cities can start conserving their water.  39:00 - How many times Colorado River water has been reused along its trek to Mexico, and discussing the state of the Colorado River Delta 44:45 - How Peter wants to divide his time between books and films, and a discussion about “earning” hope 53:00 - Pete's work with Indigenous communities' access to Colorado River Water 1:01:00 - Pete's book recommendations --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

When it comes to conservation, can a group of high school students really make a difference? Join Jared and Hallie as they dive into a story involving the Colorado River, an ancient endangered fish, and a group of high school students who are becoming the next generation of stewards.   More on the Upper Colorado Endangered Fish Recovery Program: https://www.aspentimes.com/news/colorado-river-endangered-fish-recovery-nets-some-success/ Epic migration of razorback sucker in the Colorado River Basin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNfVxKACAfM More photos for this story: https://onland.westernlandowners.org/2023/stewardship-in-action/teens-take-on-species-recovery/ Webinar on the Upper Colorado Endangered Fish Recovery Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=192ZjnaAm2A   Complete show notes are available at https://workingwild.us/  

As snow is melting and running down rivers across the US, this episode talks with hydrologists at 5 regions of the National River Forecast Center to gain perspectives on how much snow and rain fell over the winter and how it will melt and what the rivers will look like this spring and summer.  We focus on the Northeast, Southeast, Northwest, California, some of Nevada, and the Colorado River Basin. SPONSORSROCKY TALKIE5 Watt Radio, WaterproofDiscount Code 10% off:  RIVERRADIUS10InstagramFacebookYoutubePADDLE WAYSDownload the Paddle Ways app on your phone, then go to the Paddle Ways website with discount link here and subscribe there to gain the discountUse Discount Code 25% off: RADIUSPaddle Ways Instagram NRSInstagramGUESTSNational River Forecast CenterNortheast River Forecast Center, NERFCRon HorwoodSoutheast River Forecast Center, SERFCTodd HamillCalifornia Nevada River Forecast Center, CNRFCBrett WhitinNorthwest River Forecast Center, NWRFCAmy BurkeColorado Basin River Forecast Center, CBRFCAshley Nielson PREVIOUS EPISODE2023 Western Snowpack & River FlowTHUMBNAIL PICTaylor from Walker Knives   THE RIVER RADIUSWebsiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastSpotifyLink Tree

We are joined by friend of the show, John Farner, executive director of the Babbitt Center for Land and Water Policy, a center at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. John provides insight on the center's activities and objectives. He also details the history and importance of the Colorado River Basin and why the center started its work there. He addresses the biggest challenges facing the basin and highlights some key programs relevant to overall global water challenges. Podcast Recorded on May 2, 2024

Celene Hawkins is the Colorado River Tribal Water Partnerships Program Director for the Nature Conservancy, and Izabella Ruffino is the Tribal and Indigenous Engagement Program Manager for the Colorado Chapter of the Nature Conservancy. Both Celene and Izabella use their skills to advance and support tribal-led land and water conservation work throughout the American West. - Most of Celene's work is centered around the Colorado River Basin, and she has played an integral role in many cutting-edge water conservation projects that have sought out Tribal voices and Indigenous perspectives to create some of the West's most effective and equitable solutions to complex water challenges. Perhaps most notably, she worked with the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, and her colleagues at TNC to create a first-of-its-kind water agreement that was a true win-win for nature and people. - Izabella's work builds on TNC's strong foundation of partnerships with Tribal Nations for land and water issues, and she is also focused on expanding Tribal and Indigenous engagement into all aspects of TNC's wide-ranging conservation work. Additionally, she is responsible for internal efforts to fortify organizational cultural awareness and humility within TNC's Colorado Chapter. As you'll hear, Izabella is doing everything from leading internal educational initiatives to working with wide-ranging stakeholder groups on projects such as determining the best uses for TNC-owned land and preserves. - In this episode, we dig into the details of many of their specific projects and initiatives, but we also talk more broadly about the importance of seeking out Indigenous perspectives to help guide TNC's critical conservation work around the world. They both offer plentiful resources– online courses, books, podcasts, essays, and more– that will help me (and you, the listener!) better understand the importance of bringing together diverse perspectives to guide the next chapter of conversation work in the West and beyond. - Celene and Izabella mention so many excellent books, people, and resources, so don't forget to check out the episode notes for links to everything. A big thanks to them both for such a fun, inspiring, and educational conversation. I hope you enjoy! --- Celene Hawkins Izabella Ruffino A Win-Win-Win Solution for the Colorado River --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Colorado chapter of The Nature Conservancy and TNC chapters throughout the Western United States. Guided by science and grounded by decades of collaborative partnerships, The Nature Conservancy has a long-standing legacy of achieving lasting results to create a world where nature and people thrive. On the last Tuesday of every month throughout 2024, Mountain & Prairie will be delving into conversations with a wide range of The Nature Conservancy's leaders, partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, highlighting the myriad of conservation challenges, opportunities, and solutions here in the American West and beyond. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy's impactful work in the West and around the world, visit www.nature.org --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:30 - Introductions 8:30 - The win-win partnership between the Jicarilla Apache Nation, the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, and TNC 14:00- Challenges and opportunities related to putting together the partnership deal 19:00 - Benefits to all parties as a result of the deal 21:30 - Positive ripple effects resulting from the partnership 24:15 - TNC's strategies for managing its preserves, including the Medano Zapata Ranch 29:15- The process of gathering Indigenous and local perspectives 32:00 - Strategies, tactics, and frameworks for building cross-cultural relationships 36:30 - Balancing the time it takes to build solid relationships with the reality that “time is of the essence” 40:30 - Upcoming exciting projects 44:30 - Resources for further learning 50:30 - Why they each chose to apply their talents, skills, and careers to the cause of conservation 55:30 - Heroes and mentors 1:05:00 - Favorite books 1:11:00 - Parting words of wisdom --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

In her new book H Is for Hope, author Elizabeth Kolbert explores the landscape of climate change in a series of 26 animated essays arranged in alphabetical order-from "A", for Svante Arrhenius, who created the world's first climate model in 1894, to "Z", for the Colorado River Basin, ground zero for climate change in the United States. Kolbert is a staff writer for The New Yorker and author of several books, most notably Pulitzer Prize winner The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History, which chronicled previous mass extinction events and compared them to the accelerated, widespread extinctions of our present time.

Margaret Bowman shares insights into the strategies she has deployed to effectively fund nonprofit collaborations. Margaret emphasizes the importance of trust-building and transparent communication within organizations. She also shares insights about evaluating effectiveness in nonprofit work through setting clear benchmarks.Episode Highlights:How to be effective at supporting nonprofit collaborationsNavigating the complex dynamics between nonprofit leadersMargaret Bowman Bio:Margaret Bowman - Principal, Bowman Environmental ConsultingWith over 35 years of environmental experience, Margaret Bowman helps foundations and NGOs promote sustainable and equitable water solutions through better policy, strategy, and investments. Margaret ran sustainable and equitable water investing and grantmaking programs at Spring Point Partners, advanced water supply solutions in the Colorado River Basin at the Walton Family Foundation, and supported policy-relevant scientific research at the Pew Charitable Trusts. She has also advocated for river restoration at American Rivers and supported environmental law drafting in Central Europe at the Environmental Law Institute. Margaret serves on the board of the Rural Community Assistance Partnership, and on the Advisory Committee of the Conservation Finance Network. She is a graduate of Wesleyan University and Harvard Law School.Links:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-b-bowman-5688538 If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/174-special-strategies-to-enhance-donor-relationships/id1556900518?i=1000651750997 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/171-strategies-to-leverage-federal-dollars-with-margi/id1556900518?i=1000649546992https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/172-how-a-nonprofit-effectively-implements/id1556900518?i=1000650335387 Crack the Code: Sybil's Successful Guide to PhilanthropyBecome even better at what you do as Sybil teaches you the strategies and tools you'll need to avoid mistakes and make a career out of philanthropy.Sybil offers resources including free mini-course videos, templates, checklists, and words of advice summarized in easy to review pdfs. Check out Sybil's website with all the latest opportunities to learn from Sybil at https://www.doyourgood.comConnect with Do Your Goodhttps://www.facebook.com/doyourgoodhttps://www.instagram.com/doyourgoodWould you like to talk with Sybil directly?Send in your inquiries through her website https://www.doyourgood.com/ or you can email her directly at sybil@doyourgood.com.

How Taking a Walk Can Clean Water. That story and more on H2O Radio's weekly news report. Headlines: The EPA has taken its first step to regulate “forever chemicals” in drinking water. “Archaic plumbing” inside the Glen Canyon Dam is aggravating Colorado River Basin woes. An environmental crisis has been averted following the Baltimore bridge collapse...so far. A ten-minute walk could deliver clean water—and faster if you pick up the pace.

The receding waters of Lake Powell have returned some of the dam-inundated areas of the Colorado River Basin to a more natural state, while imperiling others. Mike DeHoff joins us to discuss.

Four states and six tribes in the Colorado River Basin are working on an agreement on water usage into the future. The agreement could be finalized as early as April. It comes as a flurry of agreements — and lack of agreement — involving other states and tribes is competing for a comprehensive water sharing agreement in time for an imposed 2026 deadline. We'll hear differing perspectives from tribal representatives about the evolving conversations about the vital and diminishing resource. GUESTS Ethel Branch (Diné), Navajo Nation Attorney General Joelynn Ashley (Hopi and Navajo), chair of Navajo Nation Water Rights Commission Chuck Cullom, executive director of the Upper Colorado River Commission

It is well known at this point that humans are using more water out of the Colorado River, then the river can support…for humans as well as other life forms that live along and within the river. Agriculture is using approximately 80% of that water. We talk with Aaron Derwingson, Water Projects Director of the Colorado River Program for the Nature Conservancy. Aaron and his team do freshwater conservation restoration projects across the whole Colorado River Basin, involving a combination of work from science and policy to direct project work on the grounds. By working to build relationships with the agricultural community, the team hopes to help ensure that there are sufficient water supplies for both people and nature.

There are numerous authors and media professionals doing work to explore river topics.  To close out the 2023 river and podcast year, this episode hosts two of the best.  Heather Hansman is an author writing books and magazine articles.  Teal Lehto, a.k.a., “Western Water Girl” is a social media content creator.  We talk through their respective crafts, leadership in river conservation and trending topics.  SPONSORSCovered with CarrieDenver Area Nissan DealersInstagram GUESTSHeather HansmanWebsiteInstagramLink TreeTeal LehtoInstagramTik Tok THE RIVER RADIUSWebsiteEmailInstagramFacebookApple PodcastSpotifyLink Tree

As Southern Nevada enters its third year under federally-declared shortage conditions, the community is thriving and surviving despite the water cuts. Colby Pellegrino, SNWA Deputy General Manager of Resources, talks about Colorado River Basin conditions, negotiations around future water supplies, and how conservation is helping the community live under shortage conditions. Hear more on this episode of the Water Smarts Podcast.Hosts: Bronson Mack and Crystal Zuelkehttps://www.snwa.com/ 

Could a House Plant Detect Toxins in Water? That story and more on H2O Radio's weekly news report about water. Headlines: Conditions in the Colorado River Basin have improved, which could keep the region on a stable footing for the next few years. BlueTriton is sucking up groundwater across the country. Smoke detectors? Check. Carbon monoxide alarms? Check. House plants to warn about toxins in water? Maybe? So long, has-beans—wake up and smell the coffee.

The Bureau of Land Management released a new Travel Management Plan for the Labyrinth Canyon Gemini Bridges area, closing OHV routes that conflicted with other uses, including riparian habitat. The plan was years in the making, and wilderness advocacy groups are applauding the federal agency's decision. Plus, riparian restoration in the Southeast Utah Group of National Parks is getting some attention - and funding - from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. And later, a new survey of farmers and ranchers in the Colorado River Basin show they're concerned about water shortages. // Plus, the Weekly News Reel! Sophia Fisher of The Times-Independent discusses the new, eight-passenger planes that will provide service to Salt Lake City, a recap of the city's workforce housing ordinance, and an upcoming fundraiser put on by the Moab Abortion and Reproductive Rights Network. Alison Harford of the Moab Sun News discusses plans for Utahraptor State Park, which broke ground this week, as well as the legacy of local landscape photographer Tom Till, who is retiring. // Show Notes: https://www.kzmu.org/blm-closes-over-300-miles-of-roads-to-ohv-use-in-labyrinth-canyon-gemini-bridges-area-plus-weekly-the-news-reel/

An Estonian oil company, Enefit, recently abandoned its plans to mine oil shale on federal land in the Uinta Basin and lost the authority to use its water rights for fossil fuel production. It's a huge win for environmentalists who were fighting the proposal — the company was hoping to produce 50,000 barrels of synthetic oil daily and use about 11,000 acre feet of water per year from the Green River. And later in the newscast, our radio partners report on a new solar plant in Red Mesa and breakthroughs in geothermal energy in southwestern Utah. // Plus, the Weekly News Reel! Sophia Fisher of The Times-Independent discusses concerns over downtown's aesthetic conditions, preparing for the upcoming eclipse, a rise in Spanish Valley's short-term rentals and an 84-year old ‘legendary' skydiver. Alison Harford of the Moab Sun News explores rabies and bats after two tested positive at Arches National Park. Plus, she discusses the summer reuse arts residency and the upcoming Red Rock Arts Festival. // Show Notes: https://www.kzmu.org/abandoned-oil-shale-lease-is-a-win-for-colorado-river-basin-according-to-environmentalists/

Time spent exploring outdoors can provide the best perspective on the state of our water world. This episode delves into the remarkable lessons offered by the mountains and rivers of Colorado, insights shared by Chris Wolff on his Adventure Hydrology Instagram page. Chris takes us through the observations and transformations he's witnessed during his hikes, rafting excursions, and skiing adventures amidst the Rocky Mountains. Additionally, he sheds light on his prior contributions to water conservation efforts at the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, as well as his current role dedicated to advancing sustainability in the Colorado River Basin with Quantified Ventures.This episode is supported by Flume Utility & Business Solutions, which delivers comprehensive residential water data analytics to entities tasked with creating a sustainable water future. Learn more at flumewater.comwaterloop is a nonprofit media outlet. Visit waterloop.org

Lorelei Cloud is a member of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council. Lorelei's commitment to conservation, leadership development, and Ute language, traditions, and culture is evident by the staggering number of leadership roles she holds– she is Co-Chairman of the Indigenous Women's Leadership Network, a Board Trustee for the Nature Conservancy, and serves on the Colorado River Basin's Water & Tribes Initiative. Earlier this year, she was appointed by the Governor of Colorado to serve on the Colorado Water Conservation Board, making her the first-ever Tribal member of the board. - Lorelei was born and raised on the Southern Ute Reservation, which is located in the far southwestern corner of Colorado. From the very beginning, water has played a central role in Lorelei's life– much of her childhood was spent without running water and access to drinking water continues to be a challenge on the Reservation to this day. Much of Lorelei's early career was spent working in various businesses, including banking and energy, all while being a mother and raising four children. In 2015, she was elected to the Tribal Council, which began this new phase of her life and career– a phase devoted to serving her Tribal Community, as well as the communities, landscapes, and natural resources of the American West. - I've been hearing such great things about Lorelei for years, so I was honored to have the opportunity to chat with her on the podcast. We enjoyed a wide-ranging conversation about her upbringing on the Southern Ute Reservation, the history of the Southern Ute Tribe, her recent appointment to the CWCB, why she decided to devote herself to public service, the goals of the Indigenous Women's Leadership Network, her work with the Nature Conservancy, the need to elevate Tribal voices on issues of water and land conservation in the West and beyond, advice for aspiring leaders, her favorite books, ways the listeners can get involved and support the work of the Southern Ute Tribe, and much more. - Be sure to check out the episode notes for a full list of topics discussed and links to everything. A huge thanks to Lorelei for taking the time out of her busy schedule to talk with me and for her deep commitment to doing such impactful work in Colorado and beyond. Enjoy! --- Lorelei Cloud Southern Ute Indian Tribe Colorado Water Conservation Board Full episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/lorelei-cloud/ --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Colorado chapter of The Nature Conservancy. Guided by science and grounded by decades of collaborative partnerships, The Nature Conservancy has a long-standing legacy of achieving lasting results to create a world where nature and people thrive. On the fourth Tuesday of every month throughout 2023, Mountain & Prairie will be delving into conversations with a wide range of The Nature Conservancy's leaders, partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, highlighting the myriad of conservation challenges, opportunities, and solutions here in the American West. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy's impactful work in Colorado and around the world, visit www.nature.org/colorado --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:30 - Lorelei's youth on the Southern Ute Reservation 6:15 - How Lorelei's family would get water 8:15 - Lorelei's childhood personality, school years, and early jobs 13:30 - Whether or not Lorelei wanted to stay on the reservation 15:30 - A brief Ute history 19:00 - How Lorelei's appointment as the first Indigenous representative on the CWCB 22:15 - What the CWCB does 27:30 - How Lorelei decided to pursue public service 30:15 - About the Indigenous Women's Leadership Network 34:00 - Lorelei's advice for aspiring leaders 36:15 - Lorelei's mentors 40:30 - About Lorelei's role as Vice Chairman of the Southern Ute Tribe 43:00 - How Lorelei became involved with TNC and how she evaluates whether or not to pursue a professional opportunity 48:15 - Whether or not Deb Haaland has elevated Tribal voices through her work 52:00 - Lorelei's book recommendations 55:00 - How you can help Lorelei's work 56:00 - Lorelei's words of wisdom --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

Arizona and the other Colorado River Basin states are trying to figure out how to use less of the river's water. We kick off a series of stories about the people who will be affected by those coming decisions. Plus, the Arizona Lottery's new games are meant to be played on your phone. That and more on The Show.

While many river runners see Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam as the leading threat to the Colorado River overall and to the Grand Canyon, there is a voice that wants to keep Lake Powell in place and full of water. To understand this viewpoint and reasoning, this episode explores this topic with the BlueRibbon Coalition and Powellheadz. This episode is the companion to our recent publication of “Glen Canyon is Again Being Submerged Under Lake Powell.” EPISODE SPONSORSDenver Area Nissan DealersWholesumPromo code:  RIVERRADIUS EPISODE GUESTSBlueRibbon CoalitionWebsiteInstagramFill Lake Powell and Path to 3588'PowellheadzInstagramTikTok EXTRA CONTENT FROM THIS EPISODEHigh Flow Experiment National Park ServiceComments for 2023 Bureau of Reclamation High Flow Experiment (scroll down into the letters and look for BlueRibbon Coalition letterheadMandalorian / Star Wars at Lake PowellNavajo Generating StationClosure ArticleVideo of Smokestack Demolition

No elemental force has done more to shape life on this planet than water, from originating the earliest forms of life, to sculpting our landscapes, to determining patterns of human civilization. Humans have tried to control water for thousands of years, and access to this precious resource has caused conflict and also unlikely partnerships. In an era defined by climate disruption, the control, access, and quality of water will continue to determine our ability to survive and thrive. How can we ensure a future where clean water exists for all who need it – including the ecosystems we depend on – and navigate the challenges of too little or too much?  Guests: Peter Gleick, co-founder, The Pacific Institute; author, “The Three Ages of Water” Contributor: Luke Runyon, Managing Editor & Reporter, Colorado River Basin, KUNC Radio For show notes and related links, visit https://www.climateone.org/watch-and-listen/podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No elemental force has done more to shape life on this planet than water, from originating the earliest forms of life, to sculpting our landscapes, to determining patterns of human civilization. Humans have tried to control water for thousands of years, and access to this precious resource has caused conflict and also unlikely partnerships. In an era defined by climate disruption, the control, access, and quality of water will continue to determine our ability to survive and thrive. How can we ensure a future where clean water exists for all who need it – including the ecosystems we depend on – and navigate the challenges of too little or too much?  Guests: Peter Gleick, co-founder, The Pacific Institute; author, “The Three Ages of Water” Contributor: Luke Runyon, Managing Editor & Reporter, Colorado River Basin, KUNC Radio For show notes and related links, visit https://www.climateone.org/watch-and-listen/podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode we have three special guests – Davíd Pilz and Amy McCoy of AMP Insights, and Cora Snyder of Pacific Institute. Join us as we discuss the Pacific Institute's recent report aptly nicknamed "Joining Forces". We go in depth about their efforts to improve the water world by leading Corporations to fund innovative projects. A great discussion with some of my favorites.    

This week on the On Land Podcast I welcome veteran water reporter Luke Runyon. Luke covers the Colorado River Basin for public radio station KUNC. His podcast, Thirst Gap, digs into stories that show how water issues can both unite and divide communities throughout the Western U.S. Before covering water at KUNC, Luke covered the agriculture and food beat for five years as KUNC's Harvest Public Media reporter.  I spoke with Luke about the big news in Colorado River politics: the announcement of a grand water savings bargain between California, Arizona and Nevada that now waits for Bureau of Reclamation review: what does the deal mean for landowners, what are the implications for the Upper Basin water savings programs now that the lower basin has made a deal, and what does all this really mean in terms of who is saving water and how? Enjoy the show! Complete show notes, including links, a timecoded list of topics, and a full transcript, are available at onland.westernlandowners.org/podcast.

Hey listeners! We've sharing the first episode of another podcast we think you'd love: As She Rises. On the latest season, we're traversing the Colorado River Basin –  understanding water through a new lens and centering stories of resilience in the face of the drought. Hosted by Leah Thomas, eco-communicator, author, and founder of the non-profit Intersectional Environmentalist, each episode focuses on a different corner of the basin, beginning in the river's reservoirs on the borders of Arizona and Utah, and finishing in the dry delta in Mexico.In this episode, we're starting our journey just south of Lake Powell, in the Navajo Nation. Today, Lake Powell is around a fifth of its original size. Pools that used to be deep enough to dive into have turned into puddles of mud. And as the water disappears, the forgotten canyon beneath reemerges. Over the years, the U.S. government has signed a number of treaties with the Navajo Nation, promising certain amounts of water, and water infrastructure. But, as they struggle to reallocate water in the face of drought, the government still tends to leave indigenous communities out of the conversation.Poet Kinsale Drake reads her poem, “after Sacred Water,” about how the U.S. government drowned an ecosystem to create a dam that is now shrinking fast. Emma Robbins, director of the Navajo Water Project, explains how her organization ensures households have running water, and that the Navajo Nation has a seat at the table. Wondery+ subscribers can listen to all of season 3 of As She Rises early & ad-free. Find Wondery+ on the Wondery App or Apple Podcasts. For More:Support Navajo Water ProjectDiscover more of Kinsale Drake's poetryAs She Rises is a Wonder Media Network production. Follow Wonder Media Network on Instagram and Twitter. 

Hey listeners! We've sharing the first episode of another podcast we think you'd love: As She Rises. On the latest season, we're traversing the Colorado River Basin – understanding water through a new lens and centering stories of resilience in the face of the drought. Hosted by Leah Thomas, eco-communicator, author, and founder of the non-profit Intersectional Environmentalist, each episode focuses on a different corner of the basin, beginning in the river's reservoirs on the borders of Arizona and Utah, and finishing in the dry delta in Mexico.In this episode, we're starting our journey just south of Lake Powell, in the Navajo Nation. Today, Lake Powell is around a fifth of its original size. Pools that used to be deep enough to dive into have turned into puddles of mud. And as the water disappears, the forgotten canyon beneath reemerges. Over the years, the U.S. government has signed a number of treaties with the Navajo Nation, promising certain amounts of water, and water infrastructure. But, as they struggle to reallocate water in the face of drought, the government still tends to leave indigenous communities out of the conversation.Poet Kinsale Drake reads her poem, “after Sacred Water,” about how the U.S. government drowned an ecosystem to create a dam that is now shrinking fast. Emma Robbins, director of the Navajo Water Project, explains how her organization ensures households have running water, and that the Navajo Nation has a seat at the table. Wondery+ subscribers can listen to all of season 3 of As She Rises early & ad-free. Find Wondery+ on the Wondery App or Apple Podcasts. For More:Support Navajo Water ProjectDiscover more of Kinsale Drake's poetryAs She Rises is a Wonder Media Network production. Follow Wonder Media Network on Instagram and Twitter. 

Hey listeners! We've sharing the first episode of another podcast we think you'd love: As She Rises. On the latest season, we're traversing the Colorado River Basin  – understanding water through a new lens and centering stories of resilience in the face of the drought. Hosted by Leah Thomas, eco-communicator, author, and founder of the non-profit Intersectional Environmentalist, each episode focuses on a different corner of the basin, beginning in the river's reservoirs on the borders of Arizona and Utah, and finishing in the dry delta in Mexico. In this first episode, we're starting our journey just south of Lake Powell, in the Navajo Nation. Today, Lake Powell is around a fifth of its original size. Pools that used to be deep enough to dive into have turned into puddles of mud. And as the water disappears, the forgotten canyon beneath reemerges. Over the years, the U.S. government has signed a number of treaties with the Navajo Nation, promising certain amounts of water, and water infrastructure. But, as they struggle to reallocate water in the face of drought, the government still tends to leave indigenous communities out of the conversation. Poet Kinsale Drake reads her poem, “after Sacred Water,” about how the U.S. government drowned an ecosystem to create a dam that is now shrinking fast. Emma Robbins, director of the Navajo Water Project, explains how her organization ensures households have running water, and that the Navajo Nation has a seat at the table.  Wondery+ subscribers can listen to all of season 3 of As She Rises early & ad-free. Find Wondery+ on the Wondery App or Apple Podcasts.  For More: Support Navajo Water Project Discover more of Kinsale Drake's poetry As She Rises is a Wonder Media Network production. Follow Wonder Media Network on Instagram and Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taylor Hawes is the Director of the Colorado River Program for the Nature Conservancy. As the leader of the program, she guides TNC's efforts to conserve the freshwater biodiversity of the Colorado River Basin while also meeting human demands for water– challenging objectives given the wide-ranging stresses facing the river today. But despite the challenges brought about by climate change, overallocation, and increasing demand, Taylor and her team are making great strides toward finding long-term solutions to create a sustainable future for the Colorado River and the people, plants, and animals that depend on it. - Taylor grew up on the east coast, and, from a young age, she felt a deep connection to land, water, and natural resources. She fell in love with wide-open spaces while on a course with the National Outdoor Leadership School, and she's devoted her career to protecting land and water in the West. Prior to joining the team at TNC, she served as Associate Counsel to the Colorado River Water Conservation District on Colorado's Western Slope, working on water quality, water policy, environmental permitting, and water rights litigation. - If you pay attention to the news, then you'll know that the Colorado River has been receiving tons of media attention for the dire conditions and projections facing the entire region. Reservoirs are at historic lows, temperatures are rising, and the need for more water is increasing. In the first part of this conversation, I ask Taylor to decipher many of the surface-level sound bytes that I've heard in the news, and she provides some much-needed context and background regarding the river basin's current challenges. We then talk about how TNC is working to solve these problems, by building community support, working collaboratively with Tribal nations, and helping agricultural producers become more efficient. And we spend the last part of the conversation talking about Taylor's professional journey– why she chooses to do this work, what gives her hope, and her goals for her work on the Colorado River. - This was a timely conversation, and I hope it sheds some light on the challenges facing the Colorado River today– and provides some optimism about the river's future. Thanks to Taylor for taking the time to chat, and thank you for listening. --- Taylor Hawes TNC's Colorado River work --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Colorado chapter of The Nature Conservancy. Guided by science and grounded by decades of collaborative partnerships, The Nature Conservancy has a long-standing legacy of achieving lasting results to create a world where nature and people thrive. On the fourth Tuesday of every month throughout 2023, Mountain & Prairie will be delving into conversations with a wide range of The Nature Conservancy's leaders, partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, highlighting the myriad of conservation challenges, opportunities, and solutions here in the American West. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy's impactful work in Colorado and around the world, visit www.nature.org/colorado TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:15 - An overview of the situation regarding Colorado River water 8:00 - Discussing the “bandaid” solutions for the overallocated Colorado River implemented over the years 10:45 - Who is making the water allocation decisions for the Colorado River 12:00 - The breakdown of water use in the West 16:45 - Why has this situation has become an emergency right now, meriting the involvement of the federal government 19:30 - The timeline of Colorado river use reduction mandates 21:30 - The potential impacts of shrinking Colorado River on the Grand Canyon 23:00 - What will happen if the Colorado River Basin states do not agree on a plan to reduce water use in accordance with federal mandates 24:45 - How Taylor focuses on solutions regarding such a complex, difficult-to-model problem 28:30 - Some strategies TNC is employing to support and work with producers in reducing their water use  35:00 - Discussing the difficulties and importance of relationship building in this work 40:15 - TNC's work supporting Tribal water challenges 44:45 - What drives Taylor's work and what are her goals 47:00 - How Taylor ended up doing this work 53:45 - How law school helped Taylor 55:45 - What keeps Taylor energized about her work and TNC 58:15 - How anybody can get involved in this work 1:02:00 - Taylor's book recommendations --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

Teal Lehto (@WesternWaterGirl) is a science communicator superstar with 54K+ followers on TikTok, where she breaks down some of the most significant challenges surrounding the western water crisis. Today, we're doing our best to explore the multi-faceted problem: where is all the water actually being used, and why haven't we solved this problem yet? We discuss the weird history of water rights and aversion to conservation, plus the long-ignored needs of Indigenous communities. The Colorado River Basin consists of seven states plus the country of Mexico - how are there are millions of people cautiously waiting for the western water system to collapse? Teal also discusses social media activism, her platform, and the role of recreation in bringing environmental issues to the masses. More episodes for you: Ep 178: The Drought: Water Policy, Fires, + Solutions for the American West | Gabrielle Canon 152: Heat Waves, Mega Drought, and Wildfires, Oh My... Books recommended by Teal: The Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko Where The Water Goes by David Owen Thank you to our sponsor today! CarawayHome.com/ECOCHIC or use code ECOCHIC for 10% off Meet me online - @ecochicpodcast on Instagram + @lauraediez on Tiktok. Email me at laura@lauraediez.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If there's an epicenter of the more than 20-year drought in the west and Southwest, it's the Colorado River. It's a significant water source for nearly 30 tribes that call the river basin home. Many of those tribes fought hard to secure water rights that were handed out to states and municipalities a century ago without regard for the tribes' concerns. Now, the Colorado River is in a worsening crisis. Today on Native America Calling, we learn how tribes are part of the discussions to reach a drastic water use reduction plan and find out if the stakeholders can all reach consensus with Jason John (Navajo), director of the Navajo Department of Water Resources; Daryl Vigil (Jicarilla Apache), former water administrator for the Jicarilla Apache Nation and co-facilitator of the Water & Tribes in the Colorado River Basin; Dr. Karletta Chief (Diné), Professor & Extension Specialist in Environmental Science at the University of Arizona and director of the Indigenous Resilience Center; and Dr. Crystal Tulley-Cordova (Navajo), principal hydrologist for the Navajo Nation Department of Water Resources. 

The federal government asked the seven Colorado River Basin states for a plan to cut water. All came to an agreement – except California. Now the federal government may have to step in. How will the West adapt as the Colorado River runs dry?

 Western states hope to strike on how to divvy up water from the Colorado River Basin, The FBI conducts a search of President Biden's house in Rehoboth Beach, and the city of Seattle's homelessness and drug troubles continue to rise. Cynch: Download the Cynch app and get your first tank exchange for just $10 with promo code WIRE. Visit http://cynch.com/offer for details. Indeed: Start hiring with Indeed: https://indeed.com/wire

They say that necessity is the mother of invention. And boy, do we in the West really need to figure out how to use less water. The federal government has imposed a February 1 deadline for the seven Colorado River Basin states to come up with a new conservation plan, so what would be realistic for us in the Denver metro area to contribute? Colorado Sun environment reporter Michael Booth is on today to talk about two new innovative water projects — a “MacGuyver-esque” wastewater recycling system in Aurora, and the new “cloud seeding” effort outside Longmont.  For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver by texting “Denver” to 66866 Follow us on Twitter: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (720) 500-5418‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices