Rewilding Earth Podcast: Episode 136
Title: How To Save Greater Yellowstone From Runaway Sprawl
Host: Jack
Guests: Todd Wilkinson, Leon Kalankiewicz
Release Date: December 6, 2024
Introduction
In Episode 136 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, host Jack delves into the pressing issue of urban sprawl threatening the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Joining him are Todd Wilkinson, a conservation advocate, and Leon Kalankiewicz, a seasoned conservation biologist. Together, they explore the implications of unchecked development on this iconic natural region and discuss actionable strategies to preserve its ecological integrity.
Understanding the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Todd Wilkinson provides a comprehensive overview of the Greater Yellowstone area, emphasizing its significance as a cornerstone of American wildlife conservation. Spanning approximately 24 million acres across Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho, the region encompasses Yellowstone National Park—the world's first national park—alongside Grand Teton National Park, five national forests, several wildlife refuges, and the Wind River Indian Reservation.
"Greater Yellowstone is our version of the Serengeti in the lower 48 states."
— Todd Wilkinson [03:15]
The ecosystem is renowned for its unparalleled wildlife migrations, including the longest pronghorn migrations and extensive mule deer and elk movements. These migrations are vital for maintaining predator populations and ensuring ecosystem resilience.
Study Findings: The Impact of Urban Sprawl
Leon Kalankiewicz introduces a recent study focusing on urban sprawl within 20 counties of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Covering a 35-year period (1982-2017), the study reveals a loss of 240 square miles of rural land—predominantly wildlife habitat and farmland. Projections indicate an additional 360 square miles lost by 2060 if current trends persist.
"Between 1982 to 2017, the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem lost something like 240 square miles of rural lands."
— Leon Kalankiewicz [07:05]
The private lands, constituting 25% of the region, serve as critical connective corridors for wildlife. Development on these lands disrupts migration routes, leading to habitat fragmentation—a major threat to biodiversity.
Consequences of Habitat Fragmentation
Todd Wilkinson underscores the broader ecological ramifications of sprawl on private lands. He highlights that 80% of species in Greater Yellowstone utilize private lands for significant portions of their lives. The fragmentation impedes animal migrations, reducing survival options and leading to localized, vulnerable populations.
"If animals can't migrate, they have fewer options to survive and they become localized."
— Todd Wilkinson [09:52]
This disruption affects not only prey species like elk and pronghorn but also apex predators such as grizzly bears and wolves, destabilizing the entire food web.
Challenges in Conservation Efforts
Jack raises concerns about the complexity of combating urban sprawl, questioning the feasibility of forming effective coalitions and developing comprehensive plans.
Leon Kalankiewicz and Todd Wilkinson respond by highlighting systemic issues:
- Lack of Coordinated Planning: There is no cohesive bioregional plan encompassing private lands within Greater Yellowstone.
- Subsidization of Development: Public funds inadvertently support sprawl through subsidies that benefit developers, leading to increased taxes and strained public services.
- Policy Limitations: Existing federal regulations like NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) are not effectively applied to private land developments, resulting in insufficient ecological oversight.
"We're dealing with so many mythologies that inform really bad public policy."
— Todd Wilkinson [24:13]
The absence of ecological considerations in local planning bodies exacerbates the problem, as exemplified by the Big Sky Resort, which has significantly fragmented the Madison Mountain Range without comprehensive environmental review.
Strategies for Mitigating Urban Sprawl
The conversation pivots to potential solutions, focusing on both local and national strategies:
- Smart Growth and Land Use Zoning: Implementing enforceable zoning laws to control development patterns.
- Transfer of Development Rights (TDR): Allowing landowners to transfer unused development rights to designated areas, preserving critical habitats.
- Urban Growth Boundaries: Establishing limits to urban expansion to contain sprawl.
- Incentives for Rural Land Maintenance: Encouraging rural residents to remain on their land through financial and regulatory incentives.
- Population Control Measures: Addressing national population growth trends to reduce pressure on natural areas.
"We need to stop being unconscious. Growth is not just going to happen to us; it's a choice."
— Todd Wilkinson [15:59]
Leon Kalankiewicz emphasizes the importance of collective action and public awareness, urging citizens to recognize Greater Yellowstone as a shared natural heritage that requires active protection.
"Greater Yellowstone belongs to us. It's our shared natural heritage."
— Todd Wilkinson [40:15]
Call to Action
Both guests stress the urgency of immediate action to safeguard the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Todd Wilkinson calls for:
- Public Engagement: Encouraging citizens to speak up and participate in conservation efforts.
- Thoughtful Living Choices: Advocating for mindful decisions regarding where and how individuals choose to live.
Leon Kalankiewicz directs listeners to access the full study and additional resources at yellowstonesprawl.com and yellowstonian.org, fostering continuous learning and involvement.
"Greater Yellowstone is one of our magnificent natural national treasures. It's as important as any World Heritage site."
— Todd Wilkinson [44:10]
Conclusion
In concluding the episode, Todd Wilkinson and Leon Kalankiewicz reiterate the critical state of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem amidst rising urban sprawl. They express hope that with concerted effort and strategic planning, it is possible to preserve this natural marvel for future generations.
"We have this incredible miracle that exists before us, and it just really comes down to whether we can step up... every American citizen has an important role to play in saving this place."
— Todd Wilkinson [44:37]
Host Jack wraps up by encouraging listeners to stay informed, get involved, and support ongoing conservation initiatives to combat the threats facing Greater Yellowstone.
Resources and Further Information
- Study Details: yellowstonesprawl.com
- Conservation Journalism Site: yellowstonian.org
- Rewilding Institute: rewilding.org
By shedding light on the intricate challenges posed by urban sprawl, this episode of Rewilding Earth serves as a crucial call to action for conservationists and the general public alike to protect one of America's most treasured natural landscapes.