Picture this: a vast, untouched wilderness stretching across the horizon–a land so pristine it feels like it’s been frozen in time. It’s almost hard to put words to such a place, it’s truly like another planet. This wilderness, specifically in Utah, is home to some of the last wild lands in the lower 48 of the United States, with ecosystems that help regulate our planet’s climate but sadly, it’s under constant threat.

Mining companies, extractive industries, and high traffic tourism are moving in, trying to use the land for profit. These activities don’t just harm the land–they endanger fragile ecosystems that take centuries to heal. In Utah, where the wilderness is vast and breathtaking, the danger of these practices spreading is all too real. But there is hope.People like Chris Ricardo, today’s guest, a regional organizer for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, are working hard to protect these lands. These folks are on the front lines of very real battles to protect some of the most precious places - raising awareness, pushing for laws like the America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act, and getting support from people all over the country.

In this episode, Chris talks about why these wilderness areas are so valuable–they belong to all of us. He explains how ordinary people can make a real difference, and why protecting these places really matters. He also shares the important work being done by Indigenous groups, like the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, who are fighting to protect sacred lands for future generations.

The threats are serious, but if we all work together, we can protect these wild places. Chris and others are leading the way–now it’s up to us to follow the path they’re blazing.

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