Rewilding Earth Podcast

The Rewilding Institute
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Rewilding Earth Podcast Podcast

Rewilding Earth podcast is produced by The Rewilding Institute. Our guests range from activists to scientists to wildlands stewards and policy makers with whom we discuss wilderness recovery, species reintroduction, wildlands connectivity, and important work on the ground to restore wild nature to as much of the Earth as possible. Rewilding's mission is to develop and promote the ideas and strategies to advance continental-scale conservation in North America and beyond, particularly the need for large carnivores and a permeable landscape for their movement, and to offer a bold, scientifically-credible, practically achievable, and hopeful vision for the future of wild Nature and human civilization.

  1. SEP 6

    Episode 131: The Growing Movement Toward 100 New US National Parks

    About Michael Kellett, the co-founder and Executive Director of RESTORE: The North Woods, has over 35 years of experience in the land conservation movement. In 1994, he wrote the first white paper proposing a 3.2 million-acre Maine Woods National Park & Preserve, and has been actively involved in efforts to restore the endangered wildlife such as the eastern wolf, Atlantic salmon, and Canada lynx; to protect federal and state public lands from unsustainable logging and development; and to revive the national parks movement. From 1986 to 1992, he was the Northeast Director and Michigan Representative of The Wilderness Society, where he helped to pass national forest wilderness and national recreation area legislation and developed a proposal for a Maine Woods National Reserve. Michael has served on the board of American Lands Alliance, Thoreau Country Conservation Alliance, Thoreau Farm Trust, and Walden Forever Wild. He has visited 258 National Park System units across America. He lives in Lincoln, Massachusetts. Show Notes Expanding National Parks: The Vision and Challenges In this episode, Michael rejoins the podcast to discuss an ambitious project: the establishment of 100 new national parks in the United States. The conversation covers the extensive research and groundwork done over 15 years to identify these areas, the existing public lands that could be transformed, and the benefits of increased protected areas for climate stabilization, biodiversity, and public health. The discussion highlights both the challenges and the potential for bipartisan support and grassroots mobilization to make this vision a reality. Michael shares insights into the political and economic aspects of such an endeavor, emphasizing the necessity for public engagement and collaboration with local activists and organizations. 00:00 Welcome Back, Michael! 00:19 The Vision for 100 New National Parks 01:26 Challenges and Progress in Conservation 03:20 The Popularity and Political Viability of National Parks 07:28 Economic and Social Benefits of National Parks 14:27 Addressing Concerns About National Park Costs 22:56 Potential New National Parks Across the U.S. 32:17 Mobilizing a National Movement for Conservation 36:37 Conclusion and Call to Action Extra Credit * Get notified as soon as newparks.org is live at Restore.org! About Michael Kellett, the co-founder and Executive Director of RESTORE: The North Woods, has over 35 years of experience in the land conservation movement. In 1994, he wrote the first white paper proposing a 3.2 million-acre Maine Woods National Park & Preserve, and has been actively involved in efforts to restore the endangered wildlife such as the eastern wolf, Atlantic salmon, and Canada lynx; to protect federal and state public lands from unsustainable logging and development; and to revive the national parks movement. From 1986 to 1992, he was the Northeast Director and Michigan Representative of The Wilderness Society, where he helped to pass national forest wilderness and national recreation area legislation and developed a proposal for a Maine Woods National Reserve. Michael has served on the board of American Lands Alliance, Thoreau Country Conservation Alliance, Thoreau Farm Trust, and Walden Forever Wild. He has visited 258 National Park System units across America. He lives in Lincoln, Massachusetts.

    40 min

  2. AUG 16

    Episode 130: Conservation Challenges and Successes Amidst Increased Border Militarization In The Sky Islands

    About Emily Burns Emily joined the Sky Island Alliance in 2019 after practicing conservation science and restoration for nearly a decade in the redwood forests of California at Save the Redwoods League. She leads the team running all programs, including the Border Wildlife Study, the Trinational Internship Program, Sky Island FotoFauna, Spring Seeker, their stewardship projects, and communications. Her hope for the Sky Islands in the next 30 years is that communities make choices that keep water flowing, native plants thriving, and wildlife safely on the move between the U.S. and Mexico. Show Notes Exploring the Sky Islands: Conservation Challenges and Successes Amidst Increased Border Militarization On this episode of Rewilding Earth, Emily delves into the conservation efforts and challenges facing the Sky Islands, a unique region spanning northern Sonora, southeastern Arizona, and parts of New Mexico. Discussing the impact of increased border militarization and infrastructure on local wildlife, Emily highlights the critical work being done with trail cameras to monitor diverse species like jaguars and porcupines. The conversation covers the historical and current political decisions affecting environmental policies, the importance of volunteer involvement in conservation activities, and the innovative approaches to ensure connectivity and preservation of local habitats. Emily also emphasizes the need for a diverse and bilingual conservation workforce, stressing the international significance of the Sky Islands and encouraging listeners to engage in local and regional conservation efforts. Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:22 The Sky Islands Region 01:36 Impact of Border Policies 03:33 Trail Cameras and Wildlife Monitoring 10:39 Jaguar and Other Wildlife Discoveries 13:11 Conservation Efforts and Volunteer Opportunities 19:48 Data Management and Collaboration 25:16 Future Goals and Reflections 28:32 Conclusion Extra Credit * Volunteer! For an experience like no other, check out volunteer opportunities in one of the most beautiful and biologically diverse regions in the world. * Learn more about Sky Island Alliance work here. Download transcript (PDF) About Emily Burns Emily joined the Sky Island Alliance in 2019 after practicing conservation science and restoration for nearly a decade in the redwood forests of California at Save the Redwoods League. She leads the team running all programs, including the Border Wildlife Study, the Trinational Internship Program, Sky Island FotoFauna, Spring Seeker, their stewardship projects, and communications. Her hope for the Sky Islands in the next 30 years is that communities make choices that keep water flowing, native plants thriving, and wildlife safely on the move between the U.S. and Mexico. Show Notes Exploring the Sky Islands: Conservation Challenges and Successes Amidst Increased Border Militarization On this episode of Rewilding Earth, Emily delves into the conservation efforts and challenges facing the Sky Islands, a unique region spanning northern Sonora, southeastern Arizona, and parts of New Mexico. Discussing the impact of increased border militarization and infrastructure on local wildlife, Emily highlights the critical work being done with trail cameras to monitor diverse species like jaguars and porcupines. The conversation covers the historical and current political decisions affecting environmental policies, the importance of volunteer involvement in conservation activities,

  3. AUG 2

    Episode 129: Advancing Wildlife Connectivity with Erin Sito of Wildlands Network

    About As the United States Policy Director for Wildlands Network, Erin Sito researches, develops and promotes laws and policies geared towards supporting habitat connectivity and biodiversity at the local, state, and federal level. Erin’s work also focuses on state agency reform and funding, and outreach to promote Wildlands Network’s policy initiatives nationwide. Episode 129 Rewilding Earth Podcast: Advancing Wildlife Connectivity with Erin Sito of Wildlands Network In this episode of the Rewilding Earth podcast, Erin Sito, the U.S. Public Policy Director for Wildlands Network, discusses her role and efforts in rewilding North America. She shares progress in state and federal policies supporting connected habitats, noting advancements in wildlife crossings and the significant support these initiatives have received across different presidential administrations. Erin highlights the creation of the federal grant program for wildlife crossing infrastructure and discusses the increase in public involvement through innovative technologies like the ROADS app. She addresses challenges, such as funding needs and the cultural shift within transportation agencies to consider wildlife in planning. Erin emphasizes the importance of state-level actions, praising states like New York, which recently passed wildlife crossing legislation, and outlines her vision for creating more interconnected, climate-resilient landscapes. 00:00 Introduction 00:13 Erin’s Role and Background 01:31 Progress in Connectivity and Crossings Policy 02:24 Legislative Efforts and Success Stories 04:21 Federal Funding and State Legislation 07:31 Challenges and Future Goals 17:41 Public Involvement and Innovative Technologies 28:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Extra Credit The federal bill we discussed during the interview has now been introduced. Check it out here. Check out the Wildlands Network’s State of the States Report – which lists all the state habitat connectivity legislation passed over the past 25 years. The report also highlights some of the catalyzing events discussed in this episode, like the passing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the creation of unprecedented federal funding for crossings and conservation. * All the federal transportation funding programs now available for crossings Here are some resources that folks can turn to help track roadkill. We recommend checking in with your local state DOT, to see if they have an app they prefer community members use.

    32 min
  4. Episode 128: A Howl of Hope – Eric Trefney’s Inspiring Campaign to Protect the Critically Endangered Red Wolf

    JUL 19

    Episode 128: A Howl of Hope – Eric Trefney’s Inspiring Campaign to Protect the Critically Endangered Red Wolf

    About Eric Trefney grew up in Michigan in the metro-Detroit area, where he often camped and canoed with his family and friends. After finishing graduate school in 2015, Eric joined the Peace Corps, where he was assigned to Senegal, Africa, in the Sahel desert region. Eric practiced and trained in agroforestry techniques with local Senegalese partners and women’s financial literacy. In 2018, after his two years of Peace Corps service, Eric moved to the Washington D.C. area and was gifted a camera by his dad. After learning about the critically endangered red wolves in North Carolina, Eric’s passion project became photographing, educating, and advocating for the red wolf’s survival. Eric and his partner Dani currently reside in Maryland and are often out enjoying the state’s beautiful parks and rivers. You can make a huge difference for Red Wolves! Be sure to check Eric’s call to action in his article here on Rewilding.org. Show Notes Rewilding the Red Wolf: From Curiosity to Conservation with Eric Trefney In this episode of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, Eric shares his journey from a curious Google search on “endangered species near me” to becoming an advocate focused on the critically endangered Red Wolf. Based in the DC Maryland area, Eric discusses his frequent trips to the Red Wolf recovery area in North Carolina’s Albemarle Peninsula, his experiences capturing the elusive Red Wolves on camera, and the importance of ethical wildlife photography. The conversation also touches on the need for public awareness, conservation efforts, and ways you can support Red Wolf recovery. Eric emphasizes the power of conversation and connection in driving conservation efforts. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:05 Discovering the Red Wolf 01:48 Journey into Wildlife Photography 02:27 Challenges of Photographing Red Wolves 03:38 Becoming a Red Wolf Advocate 05:01 How to Support Red Wolf Conservation 11:34 Ethical Wildlife Photography 15:06 Experiences in Red Wolf Territory 19:55 Personal Reflections and Motivation 24:34 Where to Find Eric’s Work 25:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Extra Credit * Follow Eric and see more pictures on his Instagram account. * Take action on behalf of red wolves! Pictures from a recent trip Eric took to North Carolinea’s Red Wolf territory: About Eric Trefney grew up in Michigan in the metro-Detroit area, where he often camped and canoed with his family and friends. After finishing graduate school in 2015, Eric joined the Peace Corps, where he was assigned to Senegal, Africa, in the Sahel desert region. Eric practiced and trained in agroforestry techniques with local Senegalese partners and women’s financial literacy. In 2018, after his two years of Peace Corps service, Eric moved to the Washington D.C. area and was gifted a camera by his dad. After learning about the critically endangered red wolves in North Carolina, Eric’s passion project became photographing, educating, and advocating for the red wolf’s survival. Eric and his partner Dani currently reside in Maryland and are often out enjoying the state’s beautiful parks and rivers. You can make a huge difference for Red Wolves! Be sure to check Eric’s call to action in his article here on Rewilding.org. Show Notes Rewilding the Red Wolf: From Curiosity to Conservation with Eric Trefney

    29 min
  5. Episode 127: How Rewilding The Night Skies Can Provide Major Benefits To Migratory Birds And Other Species

    JUL 3

    Episode 127: How Rewilding The Night Skies Can Provide Major Benefits To Migratory Birds And Other Species

    Ruskin Hartley champions equitable access to dark skies and quality lighting for all through DarkSky’s award-winning programs. He works closely with volunteer leaders and donors to secure increased support for our priorities around the world. Ruskin believes that experiencing a dark sky, and appreciating quality lighting, are essential to DarkSky’s mission. Before this position, Ruskin directed and managed conservation programs that protect land, water, and ocean resources. He served as executive director of Save the Redwoods League, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring the redwood forest. He also served as the president and CEO of Heal the Bay in Los Angeles and as vice president of resource development at Fair Trade USA, an award-winning social enterprise seeking to alleviate poverty worldwide. Originally from the United Kingdom, Ruskin holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cambridge and a master’s degree from The University of East Anglia. Ruskin loves to head out on the trail with his wife and kids or cook under the stars. LinkedIn | X (Twitter) | Instagram Show Notes Impact of Light Pollution on Night Skies and Biodiversity This episode explores the growing issue of light pollution and its profound impact on the environment, biodiversity, and human experiences of the night sky. Starting from the advent of electric light approximately 150 years ago, the discussion delves into the astronomical increase in light pollution and its adverse effects on various species, including migrating birds and insects. The conversation highlights simple, actionable, no-regret solutions such as implementing better lighting policies and local and national advocacy efforts to mitigate light pollution. The role of community involvement and scientific studies in understanding and addressing the problem underscores the urgency of preserving natural dark skies. 00:00 The Evolution of Dark Skies 00:47 The Impact of Light Pollution 02:37 Mitigating Light Pollution 06:15 Legislation and Advocacy 12:11 Community and Individual Actions 16:37 Conservation and Nighttime Protection 23:59 Get Involved and Make a Difference Extra Credit * Check out DarkSky.org and take simple steps to reduce light pollution where you live! * Is there a Dark Sky chapter near you? Find your local chapter. Ruskin Hartley champions equitable access to dark skies and quality lighting for all through DarkSky’s award-winning programs. He works closely with volunteer leaders and donors to secure increased support for our priorities around the world. Ruskin believes that experiencing a dark sky, and appreciating quality lighting, are essential to DarkSky’s mission. Before this position, Ruskin directed and managed conservation programs that protect land, water, and ocean resources. He served as executive director of Save the Redwoods League, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring the redwood forest. He also served as the president and CEO of Heal the Bay in Los Angeles and as vice president of resource development at a href="https://www.fairtradecertified.

    30 min

  6. JUN 14

    Episode 126: Borderlands Connectivity – Conservation Challenges And Victories on the U.S.-Mexico Border

    About Myles Traphagen coordinates Wildlands Network’s borderlands program, focusing on channeling collaborative efforts to maintain and restore habitat for species like jaguar, black bear, and Sonoran pronghorn. He oversees strategic partnerships, communications, and projects to advance large-landscape conservation goals in Mexico and the United States. Learn more about Myles here. Show Notes In this episode of the Rewilding Earth podcast, Jack Humphrey interviews Myles Traphagen, the Borderlands Program Coordinator for Wildlands Network. They discuss the impact of the U.S.-Mexico border wall on wildlife connectivity and corridors, highlighting the challenges posed by the barrier on species such as the jaguar and the Mexican gray wolf. Myles explains the difficulty of working to protect an animal he may never see in the wild, emphasizing the altruistic motivations behind conservation efforts. The conversation covers the historical context of border wall construction, the political aspects influencing these structures, and the ongoing efforts to create wildlife openings. The episode concludes with Myles sharing the successes obtained through fieldwork, GIS mapping, and legal actions and his optimism fueled by gradual progress in conservation initiatives. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:06 Understanding the Borderlands Program 00:41 Impact of the Border Wall on Wildlife 01:10 The Elusive Jaguar 03:10 Challenges in Conservation Biology 08:06 Political Implications of the Border Wall 11:12 Efforts to Mitigate Border Wall Impact 26:17 Success Stories and Hope for the Future 34:36 Call to Action and Final Thoughts Extra Credit * Learn more about borderlands connectivity issues from the Wildlands Network Download the Transcript for this Episode About Myles Traphagen coordinates Wildlands Network’s borderlands program, focusing on channeling collaborative efforts to maintain and restore habitat for species like jaguar, black bear, and Sonoran pronghorn. He oversees strategic partnerships, communications, and projects to advance large-landscape conservation goals in Mexico and the United States. Learn more about Myles here. Show Notes In this episode of the Rewilding Earth podcast, Jack Humphrey interviews Myles Traphagen, the Borderlands Program Coordinator for Wildlands Network. They discuss the impact of the U.S.-Mexico border wall on wildlife connectivity and corridors, highlighting the challenges posed by the barrier on species such as the jaguar and the Mexican gray wolf. Myles explains the difficulty of working to protect an animal he may never see in the wild, emphasizing the altruistic motivations behind conservation efforts. The conversation covers the historical context of border wall construction, the political aspects influencing these structures, and the ongoing efforts to create wildlife openings. The episode concludes with Myles sharing the successes obtained through fieldwork, GIS mapping, and legal actions and his optimism fueled by gradual progress in conservation initiatives. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:06 Understanding the Borderlands Program 00:41 Impact of the Border Wall on Wildlife 01:10 The Elusive Jaguar 03:10 Challenges in Conservation Biology 08:06 Political Implications of the Border Wall

    44 min
  7. Episode 125: Reflections on The 75th Anniversary of ‘A Sand County Almanac’ and the 100th Anniversary of the Gila Wilderness with Buddy Huffaker

    MAY 24

    Episode 125: Reflections on The 75th Anniversary of ‘A Sand County Almanac’ and the 100th Anniversary of the Gila Wilderness with Buddy Huffaker

    About With an academic background in landscape architecture and plant ecology, Buddy Huffaker joined the Aldo Leopold Foundation as an intern in 1996 and today serves as its President and Executive Director. In this role, he headed the $7.5 million campaign to construct and endow the Aldo Leopold Legacy Center and served as the Executive Producer for Green Fire, a documentary film about Leopold’s life & legacy. You can find a link to the documentary in “extra Credit” below. Buddy serves as a leading voice for the role of ethics in the relationships between humans and nature and has addressed audiences across North America on why and how society must develop an ecological conscience. Today we talk about the 75th anniversary of Sand County Almanac and the 100th Anniversary of the Gila Wilderness along with reflections on what Aldo Leopold’s message means in today’s conservation landscape and the challenges we face. Show Notes Celebrating Aldo Leopold’s Legacy: Milestones in Conservation In this episode of the Rewilding Earth podcast, Jack Humphrey converses with Buddy Huffaker about the dual significance of 2024, marking the 75th anniversary of ‘A Sand County Almanac’ and the 100th anniversary of the Gila Wilderness Area. We discuss Aldo Leopold’s profound impact on conservation, his visionary yet pragmatic approach, and how his legacy continues to inspire contemporary environmental efforts. The conversation also touches on the importance of connecting various conservation efforts, from large wilderness areas to urban environments, and the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the field. Buddy emphasizes the need for continued education and engagement with Leopold’s land ethic and highlights the work of the Aldo Leopold Foundation in promoting ecological consciousness and stewardship. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:15 Celebrating Leopold’s Legacy 02:09 Reflections on Leopold’s Vision 03:21 Connecting Conservation Efforts 03:42 Leopold’s Philosophical Impact 04:38 The Gila Wilderness and Beyond 05:26 Leopold’s Pragmatic Approach 06:18 Rewilding and Modern Conservation 12:53 Educational Initiatives and Legacy 16:28 Expanding Conservation Awareness 22:29 Challenges and Opportunities in Conservation 30:52 Conclusion and Call to Action Extra Credit * Watch: Green Fire Documentary * Check out the Aldo Leopold Foundation’s website for all kinds of tools and resources and grab a copy or two of “A Sand County Almanac.” * Read: Protecting Aldo Leopold’s Great Idea: Help Protect More of the Gila Wilderness About With an academic background in landscape architecture and plant ecology, Buddy Huffaker joined the Aldo Leopold Foundation as an intern in 1996 and today serves as its President and Executive Director. In this role, he headed the $7.5 million campaign to construct and endow the Aldo Leopold Legacy Center and served as the Executive Producer for Green Fire, a documentary film about Leopold’s life & legacy. You can find a link to the documentary in “extra Credit” below. Buddy serves as a leading voice for the role of ethics in the relationships between humans and nature and has addressed audiences across North America on why and how society must develop an ecological conscience. Today we talk about the 75th anniversary of Sand County Almanac and the 100th Anniversary of the G...

  8. MAY 9

    Episode 124: Rowan Kilduff On The Poetry Of Coexistence

    About Rowan Kilduff is a dad, long-time mountain, hawk & wildlife enthusiast, poet, and activist-artist. He has worked on various projects, including with Greenpeace, hands-on forest conservation in the Czech Republic, fixing a roof in Nepal, and photos used by The Irish Seal Sanctuary. His first writing about rewilding and first poems were published in Rewilding Earth, and his writing & pictures have been printed in Wingspan (from the Raptor Research Foundation), Camas (Montana), Ecozona Spain, and by ZEST Sustainable Literature in Italy; with 2 DIY books available online (see Extra Credit below). His new book is called Wind to Space: poems & sketches (Sustainable Reading) Rowan lives in Central Europe, currently up and down between 49 and 52°N. Topics * Urban wildlife * Rewilding with art, reminding people of the wild things all around us * The role of creative works and poetry in continually “recalibrating” ourselves Extra Credit * Check out the images Rowan discusses in this episode on his Flickr page. * Rowan’s contributions here at rewilding.org. Additional work: * Fire Songs, Sky Songs, Mountain Songs * Sunrise Fire * Check out Rowan on Soundcloud * More art here, and here. About Rowan Kilduff is a dad, long-time mountain, hawk & wildlife enthusiast, poet, and activist-artist. He has worked on various projects, including with Greenpeace, hands-on forest conservation in the Czech Republic, fixing a roof in Nepal, and photos used by The Irish Seal Sanctuary. His first writing about rewilding and first poems were published in Rewilding Earth, and his writing & pictures have been printed in Wingspan (from the Raptor Research Foundation), Camas (Montana), Ecozona Spain, and by ZEST Sustainable Literature in Italy; with 2 DIY books available online (see Extra Credit below). His new book is called Wind to Space: poems & sketches (Sustainable Reading) Rowan lives in Central Europe, currently up and down between 49 and 52°N. Topics * Urban wildlife * Rewilding with art, reminding people of the wild things all around us * The role of creative works and poetry in continually “recalibrating” ourselves Extra Credit * Check out the images Rowan discusses in this episode on his Flickr page. * Rowan’s contributions here at rewilding.org. Additional work: * Fire Songs, Sky Songs, Mountain Songs * Sunrise Fire * Check out Rowan on Soundcloud * More art here, and a href="https://www.zestletteraturasostenibile.

    40 min
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4.9
out of 5
61 Ratings

About

Rewilding Earth podcast is produced by The Rewilding Institute. Our guests range from activists to scientists to wildlands stewards and policy makers with whom we discuss wilderness recovery, species reintroduction, wildlands connectivity, and important work on the ground to restore wild nature to as much of the Earth as possible. Rewilding's mission is to develop and promote the ideas and strategies to advance continental-scale conservation in North America and beyond, particularly the need for large carnivores and a permeable landscape for their movement, and to offer a bold, scientifically-credible, practically achievable, and hopeful vision for the future of wild Nature and human civilization.

Information

  • Creator
    The Rewilding Institute
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2024
  • Episodes
    128
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022 The Rewilding Institute
  • Show Website
    Rewilding Earth Podcast

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