Pete McBride is a photographer, filmmaker, and author whose work has taken him all over the world, but at the center of it all is a river much closer to home: the Colorado River. He's been a frequent guest on this podcast over the years, and his work has consistently offered one of the most thoughtful and visually compelling perspectives on the landscapes and water systems that define the American West. His latest book, "Witness to Water: One Photographer's Mission to Defend the Colorado River," is a departure from his previous photo-driven projects—it's all words, and it brings together two decades of stories, observations, and hard-earned insight from time spent on and around rivers.

In this conversation, Pete and I talk about the Colorado River—where things stand today, what he's seeing across the basin, and why this moment feels especially urgent. We discuss drought, over-allocation, and the complicated, often frustrating realities of water management in the West. But we also zoom out, exploring how Pete's perspective has evolved over time—from adventure photographer chasing stories around the globe to someone deeply committed to telling one layered, long-term story about a single, essential river.

We also spend quite a bit of time on the more personal side of Pete's new book. He opens up about family, the influence of his parents, and a period of his life that didn't match the outward success people might assume. It's honest, vulnerable, and, like the best stories, deeply relatable. As always, there are plenty of wild experiences and hard-earned lessons woven throughout, but what stands out most is Pete's willingness to share the full picture—the wins, the struggles, and everything in between.

Pete is also a talented musician, and the song you heard at the beginning is him playing. And at the end of the episode, you can hear the full song. Be sure to check out the episodes for timestamps and links to everything we discuss, and be sure to grab a copy of "Witness to Water." Enjoy!

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Pete McBride
"Witness to Water" by Pete McBride
Episode notes: https://mountainandprairie.com/pete-mcbride-4

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Mountain & Prairie is listener supported via Patreon, and brought to you with support from the Central Grasslands Roadmap, The Nature Conservancy in Colorado, North Bridger Bison, and the Old Salt Co-op for their generous sponsorship.

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TOPICS DISCUSSED:

0:00 - Introducing Pete McBride and highlighting TNC Colorado
5:43 - The "all words" book
8:51 - How Pete's dad ended up in Colorado
10:50 - Resisting the Colorado River
13:36 - Working in India
18:45 - Watching the water run out
22:51 - Len and Pete's horrific death march
27:09 - Combining the reservoirs
29:31 - The deadline
35:17 - How to get informed on the water conversations
39:28 - Adventurers of the Year
44:35 - Nobody knows what they're doing
49:57 - Not nervous
51:53 - Flying nerves
55:41 - The most scared Pete has ever been
59:24 - Djibouti
1:02:02 - Discussing judgment and wrapping up

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Pete McBride - Witness to Water