Rewilding Earth Podcast: Episode 131 Summary
Title: The Growing Movement Toward 100 New US National Parks
Host: The Rewilding Institute
Guest: Michael Kellett, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Restore the North Woods
Release Date: September 6, 2024
Introduction to the Movement
In Episode 131 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, host Jack engages in a detailed conversation with Michael Kellett, a seasoned conservationist with over 35 years in land conservation. Michael is spearheading an ambitious campaign to establish 100 new national parks across the United States, aiming to significantly bolster the nation's protected lands and biodiversity.
The Vision for 100 New National Parks
Michael Kellett outlines his comprehensive plan to designate 100 new national parks, highlighting that their list is extensive, with each state—including Puerto Rico—having at least one potential park. He emphasizes that approximately three-quarters of these areas are already public lands, making the transition to national parks feasible.
Michael Kellett [02:25]: "Our list, which we've been working on for really about 15 years, there's at least one national park in every state, and including two in Puerto Rico in fact."
Kellett explains that this initiative could increase protected areas in the U.S. from the current ~13% to about 21%, marking a substantial improvement in land conservation efforts.
Criteria for Selecting New National Parks
The selection of new national parks is guided by three primary criteria:
- Climate Stabilization: Ensuring that the parks contribute to carbon sequestration and climate resilience.
- Biodiversity: Focusing on regions that support diverse ecosystems and complete wildlife corridors.
- Accessibility for People: Prioritizing areas near population centers to foster public engagement and accessibility.
Michael Kellett [11:01]: "More parks near people... nature is good for your health, both mental and physical health."
Public Support and Political Viability
Kellett underscores the widespread public support for national parks, noting that the National Park Service is one of the most favored federal agencies, often ranking just behind the U.S. Postal Service.
Michael Kellett [06:13]: "The National Park Service... was the top one, the top agency with 80% favorability."
He highlights successful bipartisan efforts in recent park designations, such as the New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia, which garnered support across the political spectrum due to its economic and community benefits.
Addressing Common Objections: Cost and Infrastructure
A significant portion of the discussion centers on addressing skepticism regarding the cost of establishing new national parks. Michael counters the argument by explaining that much of the existing infrastructure in public lands can be repurposed or is already budgeted, and that managing national parks can be more cost-effective than current multiple-use management practices.
Michael Kellett [17:05]: "Most of that backlog is for infrastructure... grizzly bears don't care if there are potholes in the roads in Yellowstone."
He provides examples of newer parks that maintain a wilderness focus with minimal infrastructure, demonstrating that economic feasibility is attainable without extensive development costs.
Examples of Proposed National Parks
Michael shares several specific proposals for new national parks, showcasing the diversity and strategic importance of these areas:
- Hoosier National Forest, Indiana: Advocating for the area's protection amidst aggressive logging.
- Land Between the Lakes, Kentucky and Tennessee: Highlighting mismanagement and the need for national park status.
- Northern Michigan's Ottawa National Forest: Proposing a 2.5 million-acre park to protect extensive forested areas.
- Greenmont National Forest, Vermont: Fighting against increased logging and advocating for broader park protections.
- Southern New England Parks: Including Cape Cod, Quabbin Reservoir, and Walden Woods, emphasizing their historical and ecological significance.
Michael Kellett [28:54]: "No, we got muscle on our side when we get together... it's a no brainer."
Building a Coalition and Public Engagement
The conversation shifts to the importance of grassroots mobilization. Michael stresses that a mass movement is essential for success, requiring coordination among various local groups and leveraging public support to influence political decisions.
Michael Kellett [37:52]: "It's gotta be from the grassroots up. We can't have a top-down thing."
He invites listeners to engage through the Restore the North Woods website and the upcoming newparks.org platform, aiming to create a centralized resource for information and collaboration.
Overcoming Industrial Opposition
Michael discusses the entrenched opposition from industries like logging and mining, which often undermine conservation efforts by dismissing the ecological value of targeted areas. By designating these regions as national parks, the movement seeks to shift public perception and reduce industrial encroachment.
Michael Kellett [28:54]: "They try to convince people... it's all degraded. It's nothing special."
Future Directions and Call to Action
As the episode concludes, Michael emphasizes the ongoing nature of the campaign and the need for continuous public support. He encourages listeners to join the movement, contribute to funding efforts, and participate in advocacy to realize the vision of expanding the national park system.
Michael Kellett [39:27]: "We've got Sierra Club and other groups... let's work together."
Conclusion
Episode 131 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast presents a compelling case for the expansion of the United States' national parks. Through strategic planning, public engagement, and coalition-building, Michael Kellett and Restore the North Woods aim to significantly enhance environmental conservation and public access to nature. Listeners are encouraged to support this transformative movement to ensure the preservation and celebration of America's natural heritage.
For More Information and To Get Involved:
- Website: Restore the North Woods
- Upcoming National Parks Initiative: New Parks (Coming Soon)
- Join the Movement: Sign up for newsletters and volunteer opportunities on the Restore website.