2 Degrees Out West

What You're Getting Wrong About Wildfire

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0600

If you live in the West, you've experienced the impacts of wildfire. In the last few decades, as the effects of climate change, unhealthy forests, and a drier west merge together, catastrophic wildfires have become a significant part of our lives.

Communities across the West are threatened by massive, out-of-control wildfires. We're seeing wildfires outside of what we used to consider “wildfire season,” and those fires are burning hotter, faster, and longer than they used to.

Headline-making catastrophes like the Marshall Fire in Boulder or the Palisade Fires in Los Angeles, which both ignited during the winter, have shown us that the idea of a “wildfire season” isn't realistic anymore.

Colorado has over 14 million acres of national forest. Managing and protecting all of that from wildfire is complicated and challenging. Those national forests cover recreation areas, wildlife habitat, irreplaceable wilderness— and they border our homes and communities.

Wildfire is often misunderstood, even within the environmental community. As out-of-control wildfire becomes a more present threat , communities are having to learn to adapt. This means better understanding how fire actually works in the West, the threats and the benefits it brings, and how we can best limit risk and protect our communities.

To help clear up some of those wildfire misconceptions, we talked to WRA’s resident wildfire policy expert.

In this new podcast series, we are exploring the different threats to public land in the West and how we can conserve it for the future. We will be covering wildfire, wildlife, recreation, and the threats of new development.

2 Degrees Out West is a podcast from Western Resource Advocates, an environmental conservation organization that's focused on the Interior West. WRA works across seven states to protect our climate, land, air, and water. WRA protects and advocates for Arizona, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Nevada, Montana, and Wyoming.

2 Degrees out West is a podcast for advocates and decision makers who want to fight climate change and its impacts across the West.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Running Up For Air – Why These Runners Ran Until They Couldn’t

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0600

Running Up For Air – Why These Runners Ran Until They Couldn’t

In the West, we are on the front lines of air pollution. Major western cities like Denver, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and Reno regularly rank among the worst in the entire country for particle and ozone pollution.
The people who live in our region are noticing.
The Running Up for Air race series is an event that challenges participants to put their fitness endurance to the test in the name of air quality.
The event began on Grandeur Peak in the Wasatch Mountains above Salt Lake City. Participants ran up the peak, overlooking the pollution from over 8,000 ft above sea level. In the winter the smog above the Wasatch front is often some of the worst in the country. During the race runners got first-hand experience with the poor air quality of their home as they ran up above the air pollution and then descend back into it.
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Now the event has spread to several areas across the West. It raises awareness and money for air pollution in key cities.
WRA was present to help crew one of the sponsored events run by Suffer Better in Staunton State Park, Colorado.
On this episode of Two Degrees Out West – Why air pollution is a crisis in the West, the runners that were inspired to run until they couldn't in the name of addressing air pollution, and how you can add your voice to the fight for clean air.

Learn more below!

https://westernresourceadvocates.org/

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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WRA Mini Pod: Debunking Clean Coal

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0700

Clean Energy Expert Debunks Clean Coal

In a legally dubious 202c order, the federal government forced the broken, dirty, and unreliable coal power plant to stay open past its planned closure. The craziest part? The plant is currently broken and would need to be fixed – costing millions of dollars.

It's the latest in the confusing effort from the administration to keep coal power plants online despite the abundance of evidence that there are more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective options.

The main utility that operated Craig 1, Tri-State, had been planning its closure for over 10 years - In part due to its air pollution impacts on places like Rocky Mount National Park and the fact that it’s not needed for reliability.

As a listener, you may already know all of this. This is an issue WRA and others have been vocal about in 2026. We produced a podcast, many social media posts, and currently have an action alert where you can tell your state leadership to fight to close coal power plants in your state.

However, many online – whether humans or bots coordinated by powerful interests - seem inclined to defend coal.

Coal is one of the worst energy sources for the West. Regularly, The West suffers from some of the worst air pollution in the country. Salt Lake City, Denver, Reno, and Phoenix all experience serious levels of ozone and particle pollution. Those pollutants are linked to cancer, lung disease, asthma, and a wide variety of other nasty health concerns. Ending coal power is imperative if we're going to protect our health in the West.

To help debunk some myths and claims, we asked WRA’s Clean Energy Director, Erin Overturf, to debunk some of the pro-coal comments on our social media.

As a side note – this podcast is available in a video version for those interested in a visual format.

Today’s exciting new video version of 2° Out West: Debunking “Clean Coal” with a Clean Energy Expert!

Video Version:

https://youtu.be/4mKT1s_XYTw

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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WRA Mini Pod: Trump Administration Forces Colorado Coal Power Plant to Stay Open

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0700

Just two days before the new year residents of Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Wyoming woke up to an unpleasant surprise.

The Craig One power station in Northwest Colorado had been forced to remain open by the Trump administration. The Administration used an unusual and legally shaky 202c order to force the plant to stay open. It was the latest in a series of similar orders forcing old, dirty, and often unreliable coal power plants to stay on the grid.

Not only do coal power plants worsen air pollution in the West - where many major cities already often have some of the worst air quality in the country - but it also is expensive and contributes to rising electricity costs in the West.

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Everyone in the West deserves clean air. Coal power is old, dated, expensive, and often unreliable. The Future of the West means relying on clean energy like affordable wind and solar. The administration's effort to keep this obsolete coal plant online is a threat to our clean air, health, and affordable energy bills.

On this episode of Two Degrees Out West, we talk about the 202c order to keep the Craig One power plant open and what this unprecedented move by the Trump administration means for the West.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Nevada is in Crisis. Here’s How it Can Get Back on Track.

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0700

Nevada is in crisis.

Rising utility bills have - in the most extreme cases - climbed to over $1,000 a month. Meanwhile, the state is losing ground on emissions reduction goals, which is driving pollution and worsening health outcomes for Nevadans. As temperatures climb higher and higher, air conditioning in the heat of summer becomes the difference between life and death. As the state warms and drought worsens, bigger and more catastrophic wildfires plague the landscape and threaten homes and businesses.

The state can ultimately link its problems back to one source - fossil fuel emissions.

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But it wasn't always this bad. Nevada used to be a leader in the West in charging forward on affordable, reliable energy goals. So, what has changed? And what caused Nevada to fall behind?

On this episode of Two Degrees Out West, learn about the state’s most pressing challenges and some of the things that can be done to bring Nevada back.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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WRA Mini Pod: A Win in Arizona

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0700

While the recent rollbacks of national climate policy and backtracking of hard-fought wins are especially concerning - they aren't the whole story. there is another key venue where wins are happening.

The states.

States and local governments have the power to set energy regulations, emissions reduction goals, and fund critical clean infrastructure and transportation. They can protect land and water and make critical decisions about how to leverage funds to protect the environment.

Many of these battles happen in state legislatures, and some of them happen in utility commissions - bodies that help regulate utilities and often make key decisions when it comes to enforcing state climate policy.

In 2025, things in Arizona are as dire as ever. Extreme heat and drought plague the state. AI data centers promise to strain an already stressed system. Meanwhile, Arizona has limited commitment to meaningful pollution climate goals and no clear plan for handling the data center boom and the energy and water demands it will bring.

Back in 2024 we did an episode on what was happening at the Arizona Corporation Commission, a key energy regulatory body in Arizona. On last year’s podcast we covered some of the mistakes being made by the ACC. Today, we are talking about a major win we saw against the ACC that advances our goals.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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What is the Climate Cost of AI?

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0600

In the last two years, artificial intelligence has rapidly changed the world that we live in. If you spend time online, you’ve seen it incorporated into almost every aspect of our digital lives. Search engines, social media, and online tools are all in a race to incorporate AI.

Powering AI are data centers – buildings that house endless rows of servers that bring LLMs, cloud computing, and high-speed internet to our fingertips. But all this power comes at a cost.

Data centers use energy and water – and plenty of it. Until now those demands have been predictable and easy for utilities to incorporate into their forecasts. Now, the new rapid growth and change of AI threatens to break that mold.

WRA has been investing a lot of time and energy into understanding what that cost for the climate could be and solutions to address those costs.

To better understand, we asked some of WRAs experts to explain what’s happening with data centers and what we can do about it. In this podcast, we will explore why data centers are different in the age of AI, how they pose a threat, and what our states can do about it.

On this Episode of Two Degrees Out West – What is the climate cost of AI, and what can we do about it?

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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WRA Mini Pod: Water Meters for the White Mountain Apache Tribe

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0600

The impacts of climate change are becoming harder and harder to ignore. Many communities in the interior West are on the front lines of dealing with these impacts.

The White Mountain Apache Tribe in Arizona, has been taking steps to mitigate the impacts of drought on their communities. The 1.6 million-acre Fort Apache Indian Reservation is located in east-central Arizona at the headwaters of the Salt River. The river produces over half of the streamflow entering Roosevelt Lake and supplies water to the Salt River Project and Phoenix Metro cities. This summer was a particularly dry summer for the tribe.

Previously on 2° Out West we interviewed members of the tribe to talk about their water metering project. The aim is to better track and ultimately conserve the limited water supplies on the reservation. The water meter project is on-going and only becoming more necessary as drought continues.

On this episode of 2° out west we'll once again talk with tribal members to hear how drought is impacting their communities and how water meters can help be part of the solution.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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State Level Climate Action in 2025

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Mere hours after Inauguration Day, the new administration began slashing hard-fought environmental wins: rolling back protections from fossil-fuel development, withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord, and freezing spending for critical climate resilience projects.

The Trump Administration has continued on the path that will end up forcing Americans to pay more for energy, bear the high financial and human costs of air pollution, face accelerated impacts from climate change and a weaker, less competitive economy.

The speed and scale of this dismantling of American leadership on climate and conservation has been staggering.

Unquestionably, aggressive defense of the nation’s bedrock environmental laws and protection must be a priority.

So, what is WRA doing? Doubling down on state action.

We know that climate and conservation progress is both still possible and is critical in this moment. At WRA, we’ve spent more than three decades advancing critical climate, environmental and conservation policies in the decision-making forums where most conservation policy is made —at the state level.

Why? State governments hold significant authority to advance clean energy, to regulate polluting fossil fuel sources, and to protect people in our communities.

Cities and counties can adopt sustainable and efficient water use practices, smart land use plans and invest in clean infrastructure that can power our homes and our transportation systems. These decisions add up to protect the West.

In 2025 our work saw climate wins in all of our states. We have already covered Utah and New Mexico where we saw progress on clean transportation and wildlife protection respectively, among other wins.

Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado all have longer legislative sessions. So how did those states do in advancing wins for the environment and economy of the West?

On this episode of 2 Degrees Out West learn how WRA has helped states stay strong even as federal progress on climate action stalls.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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WRA Mini Pod: What's Happening on the Colorado River?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0600

In 2022, the water levels in Lake Powell dropped so low that experts worried the Colorado River wouldn't be able to flow past Glen Canyon dam. This situation is called deadpool, and it's one of many concerns surrounding a drier and hotter Colorado River.

All forecasting points to another dry year for the basin - this is expected to continue over the long term as climate change affects the West. If you're following the news around the Colorado River, you might know that we've come to a serious decision point. The river is getting drier while our use has only grown over time.

The current guidelines that manage the water in the river expire in 2026 - leaving the door open to create new guidelines that better manage the river and its drinking water supply into the future.

We talked a little about the future of the river with Kevin Fedarko back in January. So how are things going now?

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WRA is engaged in the process to create real solutions that consider the health of the river and the long-term sustainability for our communities.

Right now, the seven Colorado River Basin States are talking about these guidelines, but they haven't made much progress. We had a conversation with one of WRA's experts on the Colorado River - John Berggren. John has been deeply involved in the work to create new guidelines.

He gives a quick update about the state of our snowpack in the West, where the negotiations on the river are at, and what we need to see in the future to sustain a healthy Colorado River.

On this Two Degrees Out West Mini Pod: How are the Colorado River negotiations going?

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Utah and New Mexico 2025 Legislative Recap

Fri, 30 May 2025 10:00:00 -0600

Each year WRA works hard to advance our climate goals on the state level.

In an increasingly uncertain federal environment, state level action is the key to seeing real change and progress on climate.

WRA has been working at state legislatures all throughout 2025 to bring forward proactive policies that fight climate change and its impacts. We’ve also defended against anything that could hold us back from the future we want for our region.

Two of our states with the shortest legislative sessions are Utah and New Mexico.

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In 2025 New Mexico had a 60 day session while Utah had a 45 day session. In both states we saw a variety of wins and opportunities for success in the future.

We sat down with some of WRA’s policy and government affairs staff to understand what our goals were and what some of our biggest wins were in those states.

On this episode of Two Degrees out West: How did Utah and New Mexico do on Climate in the 2025 legislative session?

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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The Power of Energy Planning: IRPs in the West

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0600

In the West, we want a future where we're no longer dependent on coal and methane to meet energy demands. We want to see more clean energy adopted and we want to keep that clean energy affordable.

Nearly two-thirds of voters in the West want to see a transition to a 100% clean and renewable energy economy.

So - How do we get there?

What if I told you there was a lesser known but critical regulatory process that can create real emission reductions on the ground?

Integrated Resource Plans are one of the most important tools we have to fight climate change - but they aren't talked about much.

It's a state level process that determines how much of your power comes from clean sources - like wind and solar.

And the IRP has a significant impact on the energy bill you pay at the end of the month.

On today's episode of two Degrees out west learn about one of the most important parts of the transition to clean energy that you may have never heard about - and how WRA uses that process to secure a cleaner future for the West.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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WRA Mini Pod: EV Battery Recycling

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0600

If you're listening to this podcast, I'm willing to bet you are looking for solutions to climate change and pollution in the West.

You probably already recycle, reuse grocery bags, avoid single-use plastic, and maybe drive an EV to minimize your environmental impact.

Reducing our dependence on polluting practices is a good first step in caring for the environment.

Similarly, the transition to zero emission vehicles is a key strategy to fight back against climate change.

Countless studies have proven that over the life cycle of the vehicle, EVs greatly reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and they allow us to build a cleaner, more affordable, and more resilient economy.

But did you know that there's a way to make this sustainable technology even better for the West?

We can do this by ensuring EV batteries have a second life.

Unlike a traditional vehicle, the battery that powers an EV can be reused or repurposed once the vehicle itself reaches the end of its life.

And in an instance where a battery can’t be reused or repurposed, we can recover the critical minerals within - rare earth minerals like lithium or cobalt – which can be recycled almost indefinitely.

And even better - WRA is working within our region to advance forward thinking policies to make EV battery second life applications as effective, economical, and efficient as possible.

On today's shorter episode of 2° Out West, learn all about the circular EV battery economy and what it could mean for the future of the West.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Why We Need Outdoor Equity Programs

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0700

Colorado has some of the best access to beautiful landscapes of any of the states in the West.

It's home to four National Parks, nine National Monuments, 44 Wilderness Areas, 14.5 million acres of National Forest and Grassland, and over 637 peaks above 13,000ft.

And these landscapes sustain a thriving outdoor recreation economy and culture. According to a Park's and Wildlife Study, Colorado's landscapes generate over 65 billion dollars annually.

These lands are public and belong to all of us to enjoy, and we all deserve to reap the benefits of time spent outdoors. The issue is not everyone has the same access.

Due to a variety of socio-economic factors, many people from underserved communities don't enjoy equal access. Natural spaces can be far away and time consuming to get to, gear can be expensive, and some outdoor spaces can feel unwelcoming or intimidating.

Historically, many low-income and rural communities, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people with disabilities have faced significant barriers in accessing the wild spaces in Colorado and all over the West.

Everyone should have access to these benefits.

In 2025 state legislatures have a chance to make that happen.

In 2021, Colorado created the Outdoor Equity Grant program to help underserved youth access the state’s vast open spaces, and this year WRA, alongside a coalition of supporters and grant recipients, is looking to expand funding for this wildly successful program.

Since 2021, Colorado has awarded more than $8.5 million to programs that provide outdoor education and recreation opportunities to underserved youth and their families. To date, these grants have supported meaningful outdoor experiences for more than 65,000 Colorado youth in 51 out of 64 counties.

On today’s episode of 2 Degrees Out West, learn what Colorado has been doing to help get kids outside, and how we could do even more

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Colorado River Stories With Kevin Fedarko

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0700

The Colorado River is at the center of our region.

This has been true for as long as people have called the West home.

The River Basin has been home to Tribal Nations since time immemorial. Today seven present states, over 30 Tribal Nations, and two countries all depend on the Colorado River.

Recently, the seven states and the Tribal Nations that rely on the Colorado River have come to a historic moment where they can put in place management guidelines that will sustain the future of our region and our river.

As Westerners we all have our own story with the Colorado River. Some of us are rafters, some of us are skiers, some of us are farmers, and some of us simply recognize our dependence on the most important water source in the West. What all westerners have in common is a reliance on the Colorado River.

Over the past 6 months WRA has been collecting stories from voices around the basin to share the diverse group of people that all depend on the Colorado River.

Today we're sharing one of those stories with you from an author within the Basin, Kevin Fedarko.

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Kevin Fedarko is best known for his journalism and journeys through the American Southwest. He's had a successful career as a writer and an author covering all different kinds of adventures.

Kevin’s 2024 book A Walk In The Park tells the story of, as he calls it, a “spectacular misadventure in the Grand Canyon”. It is the story of a 750-mile odyssey Kevin and his friend Pete McBride undertook to navigate a traverse of the Grand Canyon. It left the two men with many lessons to inform the future of this river that is central to our region.

On today's episode of Two Degrees out West listen to the incredible, and unusual journey two men took through the Grand Canyon. We will hear not just about the Colorado River, but also what lessons from the Grand Canyon we can take to imagine a healthy future for our region.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Building Climate Resilience with the EPA: How Federal Funding Helps Our Climate

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0700

Today on 2 Degrees Out West we'll be learning what federal funding is available to address climate change, how it's distributed, how WRA has helped our region Over the past 4 years there's been something unprecedented happening in the federal government, and it's impacted our work at WRA for the better.

The United States government has been investing in climate solutions.

In 2022, with the help of the Biden Administration, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, or IRA. It calls for an investment of over $783 billion dollars in climate change related infrastructure.

It's also the largest investment in infrastructure in general in the United States since the Eisenhower Administration. To put that into context, The Eisenhower Administration was largely responsible for the Interstate Highway system as we know it today. The Inflation Reduction Act was and is a landmark legislation.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Act also passed with the help of the Biden Administration in 2021 set aside $550 billion to help with climate resilient infrastructure projects.

The combined spending of 1.3 trillion dollars on climate infrastructure from just those two pieces of legislation is unprecedented in US history. Given the urgency of the climate crisis, it can't come soon enough.

It has promised jobs but also a future where we consider climate change and what’s best for the natural world when we build our infrastructure.

So, where is all that money going? More importantly - how does it affect you and how will it help us address climate change and its effects?

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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What is Happening at the Arizona Corporation Commission?

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 15:00:00 -0700

Of all the states in our region, Arizona is particularly affected by climate change. It's hotter and drier than ever. Arizona is at the center of a battle when it comes to energy regulation. It's a battle happening behind the scenes hidden by regulatory language and process. But it is one of WRA's top clean energy priorities.

Arizona is falling behind the rest of the West with its progress on decarbonizing its economy, but it's not for lack of natural resources. Arizona receives an incredible amount of sunshine - over 330 days per year. It could easily be the solar capital of the country.

It's due to issues in a little known, but unbelievably important, actor in Arizona's regulatory and energy planning process: The Arizona Corporation Commission.

Energy regulation is a key element in the process of decarbonizing our region, and a lot of meaningful change happens in places like the Arizona Corporation Commission.

This podcast explores some of the recent issues at the Arizona Corporation Commission (or the ACC). It is one of the institutions that has the most power and ability to implement climate positive energy regulation in Arizona.

On this episode of 2 Degrees Out West learn what a public utility commission does, why you should care, how Arizona’s public utility commission, the Arizona Corporation Commission, is hurting Arizonans, and what WRA is doing about it.

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Tell Arizona utilities to transition to clean energy! - Western Resource Advocates

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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How We Can Fight Climate Change: WRA's 2023 Impact Report

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 17:00:00 -0600

Climate change is a large scale problem. It’s bigger than any one of us, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of the issue. How can we make a difference? In the West where we can watch the winters get shorter and increasingly the effects of wildfire and drought are harder to ignore, it’s difficult not to be overwhelmed.

But, there’s hope. It doesn’t have to be this way. The best science says we haven’t missed our opportunity to do something.

At WRA we believe the opposite of climate despair is climate action.

In this episode of Two Degrees Out West, we explore some of the tangible things we can do to address climate change and its impacts. We talk with a variety of the WRA experts who help advance those goals.

You'll hear about WRA's work to decarbonize the economy and transportation of the West, our work with the White Mountain Apache Tribe to save water, and our efforts to develop new management guidelines for the Colorado River.

If you want to find more detailed information about our work in 2023, check out our 2023 impact report where we detail the different layers of our work in the West.
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(00:24:00) Kim Mitchel's Podcast with the White Mountain Apache Tribe: Find out more about WRA's work with the White Mountain Apache Tribe here.

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On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Why Water Meters Matter: Water Conservation with the White Mountain Apache Tribe

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0600

As climate change causes the West to become hotter and drier, communities are working hard to save water and stretch limited supplies. But in order to save water, we’ve got to know how much we’re using in the first place. The White Mountain Apache Tribe in Arizona is working to do just that.

Join Kim Mitchell as she talks with Cheryl Pailzote and Lydo Harvey about a project that the Tribe is undertaking in partnership with WRA to save water in the West.

The Tribe received a new grant to install hundreds of water meters on the Fort Apache Reservation to conserve water and find and fix leaks faster. “This will help us to track water use and inform the people of when water conservation is needed,” said Pailzote.

This podcast is translated into Apache by Jimmy Brownfeather.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Harnessing Hope and Action for a Bright Climate Future with Haley Littleton and Kandice Cleveland

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0700

The opposite of climate doomerism is climate action. Join us as Haley Littleton and Kandice Cleveland from WRA ignite our enthusiasm for the path to a "Bright Climate Future." Our guests unravel the cord of climate action and resilience, casting a beacon of hope as we approach the 2024 election year. Our conversation isn't just about highlighting achievements; it's about acknowledging the power each of us holds in our hands—the power to vote, act, and inspire a sustainable tomorrow.

Your sense of agency is about to get a turbo boost. We confront the beast of climate despair, laying bare the disconnect between the public's environmental aspirations and the responses—or lack thereof—of those steering the ship. The Bright Climate Future campaign is our collective rallying cry, equipping you with the tools and motivation to take a stand. Art and imagery become our allies, painting a picture where everyone has a role in crafting a positive narrative to enact real change. By the end of our chat, you'll be brimming with the understanding that your voice, your actions, and even your garden choices can contribute to our planet's resilience.

Let's turn pledges into palpable change, wear our commitment like a badge of honor, and use the power of social networks to rally the troops. As we envisage a community vibrant with climate champions, our discussion serves as a promise that a thriving planet isn't just a dream—it's a future we're shaping together, one pledge, one policy, one pin at a time.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Rapids, Resilience, and Recovery: Adventure Therapy with Fredrick Solheim

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 14:00:00 -0700

What if nature could be a catalyst for healing the wounds of war? Join me as we journey with Fredrick Solheim, a geophysicist and river runner, who uses the adrenaline-charged wilderness as a therapeutic tool for disabled veterans. We traverse the raging rapids of Cataract Canyon and explore the incredible power of nature, adventure, and camaraderie in initiating a journey towards healing and self-discovery for these brave souls.

No stranger to the harsh reality of substance abuse and high suicide rates among combat veterans, Solheim offers insight into the transformative power of adventure therapy. Drawing from the testimonies of program facilitators and participants, we learn about the profound impact these rafting trips have on veterans, gifting them with a renewed sense of purpose and accomplishment. As we navigate the emotional currents of this conversation, we also underscore the pivotal role of community, nature and campfire chats, as well as the undeniable need for all-female veterans' trips for those who have experienced trauma.

Tune in, as we weave heartwarming stories, personal connections, and the healing power of nature into an inspiring narrative. Be prepared to be moved by the resilience of these veterans and the transformative power of adventure therapy.

Further Reading:

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Brewing up Change: A Sustainable Approach with Alex Ditto and Colin Schilling

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 18:00:00 -0700

Ever wondered how your favorite beer or cider impacts the environment? Tune into this episode of "2 Degrees Out West" as we serve up a hearty conversation with Alex Ditto from Upslope Brewing Company and Colin Schilling from Schilling Cider, who are brewing a sustainable future for the beverage industry. They share their unique approach to utilizing infinitely recyclable aluminum cans over glass bottles and cutting down on water consumption in the brewing process.

Get ready to soak up the sun as we delve into how Upslope and Shilling Cider are harnessing renewable energy and reducing their carbon footprints. We'll discuss the potential of carbon capture technology and the roadblocks to reaching carbon neutrality.

And of course, we'll be diving into the craft beverage industry, exploring the growing popularity of cider in the Pacific Northwest and highlighting our guests favorite bevs and outdoor rec spots. Engage your taste buds as we discuss the unique flavors and processes involved in brewing. So, pour yourself a cold one and join us, as we raise a glass to sustainability in the brewing world!

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Uplifting Marginalized Communities Through Clean Energy with Ona Porter

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0600

Have you ever considered the intersection of poverty, culture, and environmental justice? Our intriguing conversation with the formidable Ona Porter, founder of Prosperity Works and Clean Energy Leader, explores this in-depth. Ona's lifelong mission to uplift limited-income households in New Mexico and her intricate understanding of poverty, gained from her background as an educator, paint a vivid picture of the unique challenges facing this region. With Prosperity Works, she has dedicated herself to creating pathways to opportunity for limited-income families.

As we pivot into the environmental challenges of New Mexico, we bring into focus how climate change disproportionately impacts limited-income households. Ona shares the innovative initiatives Prosperity Works is campaigning for, such as energy efficiency retrofits and Advanced Clean Cars II. We discuss the objectives of the New Mexico Clean Air Coalition, which strives to ensure marginalized communities aren't excluded from the clean air and transportation electrification movement. A key part of this is making electric vehicle charging accessible in multi-family dwellings and illustrating how clean cars can be a positive force for limited-income families.

Then, we navigate the turbulent waters of the New Mexico Clean Cars initiative, tackling false claims head-on and exploring the potential impact of the proposed rules. Ona expertly details the benefits of clean cars, highlighting not only their role in reducing energy burdens but also their potential to open up opportunities for limited-income individuals and decrease pollution within neighborhoods. Finally, we identify ways that you can get involved to help support clean car policies. Join us as we delve into the important intersections of poverty, culture, clean air and clean cars in New Mexico with Ona Porter.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Exploring the Psychology of Climate Change with Dr. Conor Seyle

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 17:00:00 -0600

Have you ever wondered why, despite understanding the global crisis climate change poses, we struggle to address it effectively? Today, we step into the realm of the human mind with political psychologist, Dr. Conor Seyle, to make sense of this conundrum. We illuminate the complexities of cognitive biases and our long-term thinking capacity and take you on a fascinating journey through the psychology of climate change.

Our conversation uncovers the psychological impact of social motives like justice, belonging, control, trust, and understanding. We discuss their influence on our cognitive biases. By spotlighting examples like the 2014 Ebola outbreak, we highlight the potential of behavioral change to transform crises and the pivotal role of public health recommendations in altering the course of disease spread.

As we wrap up our enlightening discourse, we unmask the potency of acknowledging our cognitive biases and appreciating our community values in crafting powerful change narratives. We stress the importance of individual experiences in decision-making and their ripple effect on the collective, advocating for a shift in our long-term thinking. Grab your headphones and prepare for a thought-provoking expedition into the human mind.

Further Reading
Read the BBC Climate Bias Article
Check out the Pax Sapiens
Read more about political psychology
Learn more about OEF and their Ebola work
Check out the 2022 Global Assessment of Disaster Risk

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Unraveling the Environmental Impact of Fashion with Jennifer Inaba

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Fashion's environmental impact is a hot topic, and we have the perfect expert to guide us through it. Meet Jennifer Inaba, a communications manager at WRA and PhD candidate studying sustainable fashion. Jennifer's insights into the fashion industry's environmental implications are not just enlightening, they expose a flawed system that urgently needs reform. From water pollution to carbon emissions and the alarming growth of microplastics in our oceans, she takes us on a journey through the underbelly of the global fashion industry. If you've ever wondered how your clothing choices impact the planet, this conversation is for you.

We start by delving into the shocking statistics of the fashion industry. An overwhelming 100 billion garments are produced each year, a significant portion of which end up in landfills. But it's not all doom and gloom. Jennifer shares practical strategies to counteract this impact through practices like upcycling and participating in clothing swaps. We also touch on more severe issues like the tragic Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh, underscoring the need for greater transparency and improved worker rights in the industry. This discussion isn't just about fashion; it's about the human and environmental cost of our consumption habits.

As we move into the latter part of the episode, Jennifer offers valuable advice on finding sustainable clothing, supporting local thrift stores and shopping smart with sustainable brands. We explore how technology and policy can spearhead a more circular fashion industry, making recycling textiles the norm rather than the exception. From the idea of 'clothing nutrition labels' to reconnecting with nature, we discuss innovative approaches to transform our consumption patterns. If you want to be part of the solution, join us for this engaging conversation and gain a fresh perspective on sustainable fashion and conscious consumerism.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Growing Water Smart in Utah with Chelsea Benjamin, Nick Schou and John Berggren

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 16:00:00 -0600

Are you ready to refresh your understanding of water use and make strides in conservation as we unveil the innovative Growing Water Smart program in Utah? Our conversation delves into the intricate connection between land and water use, revealing the crucial role that reducing water use plays in our environment and key ecosystems, such as the Colorado River and the Great Salt Lake. We're joined by an expert panel featuring Chelsea Benjamin, Nick Schou, and John Berggren, who share their invaluable insights on the impacts of climate change, drought, and high water use in Utah.

We discuss the threats facing the Great Salt Lake, outlining the economic and health implications of its potential disappearance. We also cover how population expansion and water use are intertwined, and the opportunity Utah has to learn from other states' water efficiency efforts. We spotlight the Utah Growing Water Smart program, celebrating how it equips communities with resources to develop sustainable land and water planning processes.

We wrap up by discussing the growth of water-smart teams in Utah and their role in molding resilient communities and ecosystems. Our conversation highlights how these teams are banding together to build sustainable action plans, offering you the chance to learn how you can get involved and make a difference, regardless of your location.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Cultivating Environmental Justice with Juan Roberto Madrid

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 16:00:00 -0600

What if you could uncover the often-overlooked environmental challenges faced by Latino communities? Today, we're excited to bring you a crucial conversation with Juan Roberto Madrid from Green Latinos, an organization tirelessly working towards addressing climate justice. This compelling episode invites you to join us on Juan Roberto's extraordinary journey from his 33-year healthcare career aiding minority communities, to his pursuit of a Masters in Public Health and eventually embracing the realm of policy and climate justice.

We'll also take a deep dive into the heart of Green Latinos' operations, shedding light on their mission to support initiatives like transportation electrification and addressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on Latino communities. The conversation switches gears to spotlight their nationwide advocacy for Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities, who bear the brunt of environmental issues like ozone pollution.

Finally, we'll delve into the intricate dynamics of Green Latinos' stakeholder outreach strategies, particularly their efforts to dispel misinformation about the Clean Trucks Rule. So, tune in, and together, let's make a difference!

Visit the podcast blog page for photos of Juan Roberto and Green Latinos!

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Wildfire Resilience: Tackling the Growing Risk in the Western US with Brendan Witt

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 14:00:00 -0600

Are you prepared for wildfire season? Today, we're joined by Brendan Witt, former host of Two Degrees Out West and current Western Lands Policy Fellow at WRA, to help us better understand the increasing risk of wildfires in the western US. Brendan shares his unique journey from the world of craft beer to working on land use planning, prescribed fire, and wildfire mitigation. Discover how his personal experience with the East Troublesome Fire in Colorado shaped his perspective on wildfire resilience.

We dive deep into the factors contributing to the growing risk of wildfires, such as climate change, beetle-kill pines, and the interconnectedness of our environment. Brendan also sheds light on the complex role of historical forest management and the ecological role of fires in shaping our western landscapes. Learn about the challenges and opportunities presented by prescribed burning as a tool for managing wildfire risk and how Indigenous fire practices can be incorporated into state and federal forest management.

In this fascinating conversation, we also explore the importance of intentional growth and land use planning in creating wildfire-resilient communities. From evacuation plans to preserving open spaces, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone living in or loving the Western US. Tune in and learn how we can all be better prepared for wildfire season.

Further Reading

Love the show and the climate solution work we’re doing every day with Western Resource Advocates? Become a sponsor of WRA and the 2 Degrees Out West podcast. Show your support for the land, air, water, and people of the West today!

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Turf Replacement and Water Wise Landscaping with Kate Larson and Maria Fox

Tue, 09 May 2023 16:00:00 -0600

How can we reduce our water use and support local ecosystems? Easy, turf replacement, water wise landscaping and planting native gardens. It can seem like an overwhelming task for homeowners and businesses but there are many resources, tools and financial support. The end result are beautiful spaces that support the surrounding plants and animals and make people happier too.

On this episode of 2 Degrees Out West, we talk with two water wise landscaping experts, Maria Fox in Utah and Kate Larson in Colorado, to discuss the benefits of turf replacement and how you can get started.

Tune in today to learn how these programs are making a big difference.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Fostering Diversity in the World of Fly Fishing with Austin Campbell

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 17:00:00 -0600

Austin Campbell is a Denver-based fly fishing guide that works with Trouts Fly Fishing and runs the non-profit Community Fly Fishing, to introduce inner-city kids and underserved Denver residents to the joys of fishing and the serenity of the outdoors.

In this episode of 2 Degrees Out West, we chat about the joys of fly fishing, how climate change is affecting the sport and the work Austin is doing to create more outdoor equity in the fishing world.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Hydrology in the Navajo Nation with Crystal Tulley-Cordova

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 18:00:00 -0600

Crystal Tulley-Cordova, PhD, MWR is the principal hydrologist in the Navajo Nation Department of Water Resources Water Management Branch. She's an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation and she received a doctoral degree in geology and an interdisciplinary graduate certificate in sustainability from the University of Utah.

In this episode, we speak with Crystal about water in the Navajo Nation as well as some climate challenges and collaborative solutions facing the Tribal Nation today. We also discuss how the conservation mindset of indigenous thinking is helping to find innovative ways to face climate change.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
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Public Utility Commissions with Deb Kapiloff

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 20:00:00 -0600

Public Utility Commissions play a major role in the clean energy future, utility rates and more but what do we really know about these regulating bodies? Listen in as we take a look behind the curtain at PUCs with transportation electrification policy analyst Deb Kapiloff.

Further Reading

Love the show and the climate solution work we're doing every day with Western Resource Advocates? Become a sponsor of WRA and the 2 Degrees Out West podcast. Show your support for the land, air, water and people of the West today!

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Indigenous Peoples and Conservation with Tahlia Bear

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 22:00:00 -0700

Tahlia Bear is the Indigenous Peoples Engagement Manager at WRA. Her work focuses on building relationships with Tribes, identifying ways we can support one another and making sure that Indigenous voices are always heard.

In this episode, we discuss some of the challenges facing Tribes in the context of climate change and beyond. We chat about Tribal sovereignty, regional energy markets, Tribal utilities and more.

Tahlia is an enrolled member of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and she is also half Navajo. During our conversation, Tahlia speaks about her Navajo family living in Northern Arizona and how her aunt only recently got electricity in her home. Lack of water and electricity in rural Indian Country is still a major issue and one that is often overlooked in the conservation and environmental justice space.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Love Letters to the West with John Goldin-Dubois

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0700

We asked the WRA community to submit Little Love Letters to the West to celebrate the West and our new brand launch. In this episode, we talk with WRA president, Jon Goldin-Dubois about the new brand, the future of WRA, and his favorite part of the West. We've also included nine of the Love Letters we've received from various staff members, board members, and supporters of WRA.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Supporting the Land of Enchantment with Brittany Fallon

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 17:00:00 -0700

Western Lands Manager, Brittany Fallon, has channeled her love for New Mexico and the environment into a career championing climate solutions in the Land of Enchantment. She loves river rafting on the Chama and snowshoeing with her dog Cooper whenever she's not fighting for our Western Lands.

In this episode, we learn about The Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, a bill Brittany has worked on for over 5 years. This bill will create permanent funding for 10 programs that help protect New Mexico and support outdoor equity in the Cactus state.

Further Reading

Learn more about the New Mexico Outdoor Equity Fund
Email your legislator about the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund
Learn more about the Together for Brothers program
Email Julia.Barnes@nmlegis.gov if you are a school interested in participating in the Speaker's Academy
Check out all of the programs that would benefit from the Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund
Visit the podcast blog page for photos and more information

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Southern Nevada Snapshot Solving Air Pollution with Jermareon Williams

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0700

Who is affected every day by traffic smog and trucks? On this episode, we chat with proud Las Vegas native, Jermareon Williams, WRA's newest government affairs manager for the state of Nevada. Find out more about Vegas, Medium and Heavy Duty Vehicles, pollution, and how we can stop it in this storytelling-style podcast from Western Resource Advocates.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

A Journey to the Black Rock Desert with Stacey Wittek

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:15:49 -0700

Join us for a journey to the Black Rock Desert with Stacey Wittek the executive director of The Friends of Black Rock High Rock. This Northern Nevada national conservation area is best known for land speed records, emigrant trails, rocket launches and Burning Man. Find out what else the Black Rock Desert holds in this storytelling-style podcast from Western Resource Advocates.

Further Reading

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

The Colorado River in Crisis

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 08:52:41 -0600

The Colorado River is the hardest working river in the West, providing water for over 40 million people, 5.5 million acres of agriculture, 20 federally recognized tribes, and vibrant wildlife across seven states and two countries. It is essential for the lives and livelihoods of communities across our region – and it is in crisis. In this latest episode, we dove into the threats facing the Colorado River, what they mean for Western communities, and how we can and must take action to update management and protect this vital water source for the next 100 years to come.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Climate Nexus Series: Working to Build Community Resilience to Climate Change: Part 3

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 12:22:42 -0600

From ongoing megadrought, dangerous ground-level ozone pollution and heat waves, and increasing frequent catastrophic wildfires to erratic, devastating floods, communities across the West are experiencing the impacts of climate change right now, in real time. The impacts of the climate crisis are no longer a looming threat in the distant or even near future, they are now a present reality, and are being disproportionately felt by Western communities in the US. With the Colorado River reaching critically low levels, unseasonable and catastrophic winter wildfires burning through suburban communities, worsening air pollution in many of our major cities, and more, it is clear we need to take action to adapt and make our communities more resilient to the worsening effects of climate change now. Western resource advocates is working across our organization and throughout our region to help bolster community resilience to these impacts, and to protect our air, land, water, and wildlife—and sustain the lives and livelihoods of the West. To understand how WRA is working with communities to create and increase resilience against climate change, we spoke with WRA’s Western Lands Senior Policy Analyst Rachael Hamby, Water Policy Analyst John Berggren, Senior Climate Policy Analyst Meera Fickling, and Senior Clean Energy Policy Analyst Alex Routhier for our latest episode of our Climate Nexus series. Want to know how your community can adopt policies to help increase resilience against these escalating threats? Then you won’t want to turn away from this one...

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Climate Nexus Series: Clean Air and Clean Energy: Part 2

Tue, 24 May 2022 11:52:46 -0600

Clean air is essential for a healthy quality of life for our region. Breathing in fresh air and enjoying our region’s abundant outdoor natural beauty is what some of us love most about calling the West home. But contrary to the idyllic image that might conjure up, many of the states across the Interior West are home to some of the nation’s worst air quality. Although we might often think of carbon dioxide, also known as CO2, when we talk about climate pollution and the need to reduce emissions to tackle climate change, many of the sources that contribute to the climate crisis also produce harmful, even toxic, air pollution that is impacting our communities. The exhaust generated from burning fossil fuels to power our cars, planes, trains, homes, industries, and office buildings all carries with it both a detrimental impact for our climate, and a potentially lethal impact for our communities. For the second episode of our Climate Nexus series, we speak with WRA’s Utah-based general counsel and air quality expert Joro Walker, WRA’s Transportation Electrification Policy Analyst Deborah Kapiloff, and WRA’s former Senior Managing Attorney in Nevada Cameron Dyer to explore the connection between the transportation sector and burning fossil fuels, the air we breathe, and our goals to act on climate.Take action to protect clean air in Utah:https://westernresourceadvocates.org/action/protect-clean-air-and-public-health-in-utah/Support advancing clean cars across the West:https://westernresourceadvocates.org/action/stand-with-wra-in-advancing-clean-cars-in-the-west/Support WRA's work to protect clean air and transition to clean energy for our region:https://westernresourceadvocates.org/donate/donate-now/

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Climate Nexus Series: Water And Energy: Part 1

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 11:25:57 -0600

At WRA, we are working to drive on-the-ground solutions to climate change to advance clean energy, protect air, land, water, and wildlife—and sustain the lives and livelihoods of the West. And across the West, we know that almost every aspect of our lives is being impacted by the effects of climate change. From water scarcity and ongoing drought, to catastrophic wildfire and dangerous air quality levels. We know that these challenges, however distinct, are not isolated from each other. From 33 years of experience, we know crafting effective solutions to address climate change and meet our science backed emissions reductions goals requires a complex, collaborative, and multifaceted approach. To look at where those issues and our work to address them intersect, we're launching the Climate Nexus series for our 2 Degrees Out West podcast. This series will dig into the ways that pressing environmental challenges and the causal factors of climate change overlap, as well as the ways in which our staff at WRA are working together and combining their expertise to drive innovative solutions and getting results. For this first conversation, I spoke with Stacy Tellinghuisen and Ellen Howard Kutzer of WRA’s Clean Energy Program, as well as Bart Miller and John Cyran of WRA’s Healthy Rivers Program, about how our work to cut harmful emissions from Western coal plants and transition our region to a zero-carbon economy has the potential to help keep more water flowing through rivers and streams. Confused about how those two connect? Let’s check it out....Support WRA's work to drive on-the-ground solutions to climate change! Donate today!https://westernresourceadvocates.org/donate-now/

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

A Conversation on Women in Conservation with the Women of WRA

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 08:57:24 -0700

Protecting our clean air, healthy rivers and lakes, and natural landscapes to ensure a healthy, livable future are goals that we can seemingly all agree on. However, for decades, the work to achieve those goals and the professions that pursue them have traditionally been seen as male dominated spaces. At Western Resource Advocates, we want to celebrate some of the incredible women on our staff, and in the conservation community that have worked to break the mold and build a more inclusive conservation movement. For this episode, WRA’s Operation’s Associate Haley Howard takes over as guest host as we celebrate Women’s History Month. In this edition of our 2° Out West Podcast, we spoke with some of the Women of Western Resource Advocates, including our new board member Yadi Sanchez, executive director of Poder Latinx, about their paths to working in conversation and the women who have inspired them both in the environmental field and right here at WRA. They also share their advice for young women looking to work in conservation, sustainability, and to address climate change.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Black History, Today and Every Day, and Breaking Down Barriers to Equity in the Outdoors

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:06:45 -0700

For this latest installment of our podcast in recognition of Black History Month, WRA's Kandice Cleveland takes over for Brendan as guest host. Kandice spoke with WRA Western Lands Policy Analyst and Rising Routes founder Jason Swann, and Portia Prescott, founder of Black Girls Hike and a new member of our board of directors. The conversation focused on learning more about how our staff and board are working to expand equitable access to the outdoors and ensure a healthy, livable future for all our communities, and about the experiences that led Portia and Jason to work with WRA as well as to launch their own organizations focused on breaking down barriers to the outdoors. Finally Kandice, Portia, and Jason remind us that Black history is being made and celebrated everyday, this month, and every month.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

2022 Western Legislative Preview

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 08:55:50 -0700

At Western Resource Advocates, we work where decisions are made to drive on-the-ground solutions to climate change, advance clean energy, protect air, land, water, and wildlife — and sustain the lives and livelihoods of the West. That means engaging with policymakers at state legislatures each year to ensure that important issues are addressed. To find out what issues are priorities for our mission in state legislators this year, we spoke with WRA’s Government Affairs team for our 2022 Western Legislative Preview episode.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

How A Little "Trail Magic" Can Help Us Achieve Our Climate Goals

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 15:07:42 -0700

With so much intense news about climate change constantly in front of us, it can be easy to lose sight of the real potential we have to address this challenge if we work together. To wrap up this extraordinary and strange year, WRA President Jon Goldin-Dubois joins the podcast to reflect on what his summer trip hiking the Colorado Trail can tell us about how we can work together to address climate change, and how a little “trail magic” is just what we need to get it done.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

How to Turn Climate Anxiety and Emotions into Action

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 12:55:50 -0700

We are all feeling the impacts of climate change, and experiencing them in a real and emotional sense.While the evidence of the impacts of climate change are all around us, are we really allowing ourselves to feel these impacts personally? How can we both process this existential issue, and turn those emotions into action? How do we avoid feeling panic over the future, and stay motivated to act before it's too late? In this episode, we look at how we can productively process our feelings about the climate crisis to avoid paralysis and ensure we reach our goals.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

2021 Western Legislative Preview

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 13:53:15 -0700

At WRA, we work where decisions are being made – including at state legislative sessions across the West. As legislatures across the West convene for 2021, we sat down with our Government Affairs team for a preview of the issues ahead, in our latest episode of our podcast, 2° Out West:

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Lessons Learned from 2020 and How WRA is Stepping Up to The Challenges of The Year to Come

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 11:08:02 -0700

As 2020 draws to a close, we spoke with WRA President Jon Goldin Dubois about how our organization is stepping up to the challenges ahead.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

What We are Hopeful for Heading into 2021

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 09:04:20 -0700

We don’t have to tell you that this year has been a tough one. From the global pandemic, worsening drought conditions, and yet another season of catastrophic wildfires that have impacted so many, this year has unquestionably stood apart from the rest. But through all the struggles of 2020, there has also been some important progress made in our work to protect the West’s land air and water.That work has us encouraged, and feeling hopeful about what 2021 has in store. So we wanted to share some of that with all of you. We brought together some of our team to talk over Zoom about what they're grateful for in 2020, and what has them feeling hopeful for the year to come.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

What Megadrought Means for the West

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 11:53:26 -0600

As climate change experts warn that our climate will only continue to get hotter if we don’t take decisive action on climate soon, we spoke with some of WRA’s water experts, as well as with ranchers and Navajo tribal water official to understand whatthis drought means for people across the West, and what we can do to protect our rivers in the face of a mega drought.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Welcome to our First Ever WRA Book Club!

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 17:24:58 -0600

While we usually cover different policy topics, update you on legislative efforts, or dive into the real world impacts of climate change on this show, we wanted to change things up for this episode.Welcome to our first ever WRA book club. In this episode, we’ll discuss what we are reading, watching, or listening to that is serving up food for thought as we continue our work to protect the West’s land, air, and water and address climate change.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

WRA Update: Protecting the West While Working From Home

Mon, 04 May 2020 17:11:17 -0600

For this episode, we’ve brought together a group of advocates from across our organization to give us an update on what life is like now, and what our organization is doing to continue our work to ensure clean air and healthy rivers and lakes, protect and connect Western landscapes, and address climate change.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Turning Up the Heat: How Climate Change is Affecting New Mexico’s Green Chile

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 10:35:30 -0700

In this episode of 2° Out West, we speak with scientists, policy experts, and green chile lovers to learn more about what the threat of climate change means for New Mexico’s most beloved crop, New Mexico green chile.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Hope in the Face of Climate Change

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:34:23 -0700

In this episode of 2° Out West, we speak with WRA's Clean Energy Program Deputy Director Erin Overturf about why she sees reasons to stay hopeful in the face of the looming climate crisis, and what we can do to take action and make a difference before it’s too late.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Looking Back, and Looking Forward: A Conversation with WRA President Jon Goldin-Dubois

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 09:52:40 -0700

2019 was a big year for WRA in our work to protect the West’s land, air, and water. To take stock of all we accomplished this year, and look forward to 2020, we spoke with WRA President Jon Goldin-Dubois in our latest episode of our podcast, 2 Degrees Out West!

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

A Conversation with WRA’s 2019 Emerging Leaders Andrew Pappas and Jeremy Romero

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 15:20:26 -0600

In our first full episode, we speak with WRA’s 2019 emerging leader award recipients, Andrew Pappas and Jeremy Romero, about what inspired them to work in conservation, and the challenges they see facing the West’s land, air, and water through their work.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...

Introduction: 2 Degrees Out West

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 15:16:56 -0600

Welcome to 2 Degrees Out West, a podcast of Western Resource Advocates, where we examine the story behind some of the most pressing conservation issues facing the West. We talk with issue experts, legislators, researchers, organizers, conservation advocates, and more about what we can do to help protect the West’s land, air, and water – and, yes, to fight the climate crisis and hold global heating to within 2 degrees Celsius. Please join us and subscribe on Stitcher, iTunes, or SoundCloud to stay up to date with our latest episodes.

On 2 Degrees Out West we talk with climate experts and advocates to bring you stories, experiences, and insights from their work in the places we call home.

It is Hosted by Dave Papineau

Want to be part of 2 Degrees Out West?

Email us with thoughts, suggestions, and interviewees at dave.papineau@westernresources.org.
Follow us @westernresourceadvocates on Instagram.
Create a clip sharing "our Bright Climate Future for the West" and send it to us at dave.papineau@westernresources.org. to be included in one of our next episodes.
Join our email list to stay updated on when new episodes are released and calls to action on how you can help the West.
...