Our Public Lands
A podcast about our beloved and treasured public lands where I interview subject matter experts and activists from across the country who are working to protect and advocate for our public lands and their wildlife, wilderness, and cultural values.
Our Public Lands
#7 - Safeguarding the Wilderness Act
In this episode, I interview Katie Bilodeau and Kevin Proescholdt from Wilderness Watch. We discuss their organization's mission to preserve the integrity of the wilderness Act, legal enforcement, and challenges to wilderness across the political spectrums. Our conversation delves into the historical context and continuing relevance of wilderness protection, including specific legislative threats and proposals that undermine the integrity of the Wilderness Act itself. Kevin and Katie address misconceptions about wilderness and Native American history, the influence of industry on recreational activities within wilderness, and the environmental importance of preserving these lands.
www.wildernesswatch.org
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
00:25 Backgrounds of Katie and Kevin
02:13 Wilderness Watch: Mission and Activities
06:08 The Importance of Wilderness
08:30 Native American Presence in Wilderness Areas
13:55 Challenges and Threats to Wilderness
18:30 Controversial Wilderness Bills and Provisions
21:16 Mountain Biking and Climbing in Wilderness
30:07 Sequoia Litigation and Wilderness Management
37:31 Current Legislative Efforts and Advocacy
52:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts