Digest

This episode features Liz Crandall discussing her advocacy work after being illegally fired from the US Forest Service and her podcast "Rangers of the Lost Park." The conversation delves into the censorship of historical information in national parks, the threats to public lands from development and policy changes, and the impact of workforce reductions. Personal "Trail Tales" are shared, including a ghost story from Gettysburg, an experience in Norway's Geiranger Fjord, a dangerous kayaking trip, and a former ranger finding new purpose. The hosts also discuss the evolving, more engaging social media presence of national parks, the importance of diversity in podcasting, and share recommendations for books and places that should be national parks. The episode emphasizes the need to protect public lands, acknowledge history in its entirety, and find joy and hope through advocacy and community.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Public Lands Advocacy

Hosts welcome Liz Crandall for a "Trail Tales" episode, discussing her background as a former US Forest Service ranger, her advocacy after being illegally fired, and her podcast "Rangers of the Lost Park." They set the stage for stories and discussions on current public land issues and the importance of preserving history.

00:05:00

Trail Tales: Gettysburg Ghost Story and Norway's Fjord Ranger

Cherise shares a childhood ghost story from Gettysburg involving a spectral soldier named Barry. A former Fjord Ranger from Norway recounts a memorable hike and bonding experience with tourists, highlighting the connections facilitated by the podcast.

00:09:23

Censorship and Historical Truth in National Parks

Liz, Cassie, and Danielle discuss the removal of interpretive signs from national parks due to "divisive information." They stress the importance of remembering all aspects of history, even difficult ones, and how censorship deprives the public of valuable lessons. Liz explains the censorship stems from an executive order and recommends the "Resistance Rangers" podcast.

00:18:30

Threats to Public Lands and Conservation Efforts

Liz discusses recent leaks about planned historical information removals and the importance of finding joy amidst bad news. The hosts address ongoing threats to public lands, including drilling, development, and privatization, particularly in Alaska, emphasizing the need for conservation. An analysis reveals the current administration could strip protections from millions of acres.

00:36:11

Key Issues: Roadless Rule, Boundary Waters, Big Bend, and Underrepresented Lands

The discussion covers the potential rollback of the Forest Service's "roadless rule," mining threats near the Boundary Waters, and the proposed wall in Big Bend National Park. Liz advocates for increased attention to public lands managed by the BLM and US Forest Service, which are often overlooked. Threats to Grand Staircase Escalante and Red Cliffs are also detailed.

00:43:55

Trail Tale: Kayaking Danger and Park Service Response

Harley recounts a dangerous kayaking trip that led to being "called out" by park rangers on social media. Despite the recklessness, they survived and learned a valuable lesson about safety, illustrating the consequences of risky behavior in protected areas.

00:50:58

Shift in Park Social Media and Workforce Impact

The hosts note a humorous shift towards a more engaging "spicy" tone in National Park social media. Liz provides an update on mass terminations of public land workers, highlighting the dire situation, impact on younger generations, and uncertainty felt by current employees. Poll results show widespread insecurity among NPS employees.

01:00:15

Employee Exodus and Finding New Purpose

Liz discusses the impact of firings on probationary employees and the resulting "mass exodus" of federal workers. A former seasonal park ranger shares her story of job loss and finding renewed purpose and love for the outdoors through adopting a dachshund puppy, emphasizing finding joy and a new path.

01:11:05

"Rangers of the Lost Park" Podcast Deep Dive

Liz explains her podcast's purpose: to combat misinformation, uplift underrepresented voices, and provide a platform for rangers. She discusses the podcast's evolution, notable guests, the demands of podcasting, and the importance of diversity and representation. She shares where to find the podcast and future plans.

01:24:24

Fun Segments: Luxury Items, Favorite Monuments, and Books

Liz outlines the podcast's structure, including "Ranger T" stories and "Ranger Rankings." Guests share their "dumbest luxury items" for camping, favorite national monuments (Mount St. Helens, Devil's Tower, Dinosaur National Monument), and "unhinged" book recommendations.

01:37:22

Places Deserving National Park Status

The conversation explores places that should be national parks, with the Owyhee Canyonlands in Oregon and the Adirondacks in New York being discussed for their unique beauty, ecological importance, and recreational value, advocating for their enhanced protection.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the primary reason behind the removal of interpretive signs from National Parks?

  The removal of interpretive signs is often attributed to an executive order aimed at "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which criticizes the presentation of certain historical narratives, particularly those highlighting the "dark side" of American history or perceived as "divisive."

• What is the significance of Liz Crandall's advocacy work after being fired?

  Liz Crandall's advocacy is significant because she was illegally fired from her position as a US Forest Service ranger. Her subsequent public speaking and media appearances have brought attention to the issues faced by rangers and the importance of protecting public lands.

• What are the main concerns regarding the potential rollback of the "Roadless Rule"?

  The "Roadless Rule" protects undeveloped areas within national forests from road construction and resource extraction. Rolling back this rule could lead to increased development, habitat fragmentation, and loss of intact wildlands.

• How has the mass firing of public land workers impacted the federal workforce?

  The mass firings have led to significant staff shortages, impacting agency operations and creating uncertainty among remaining employees, while also deterring new talent from entering the federal workforce.

• What is the "Rangers of the Lost Park" podcast about?

  "Rangers of the Lost Park" is a podcast hosted by Liz Crandall that focuses on issues affecting public lands and rangers. It aims to educate listeners about conservation challenges, share ranger stories, combat misinformation, and inspire hope and action.

• What is the main message of the "From Park Ranger to Dog Mom" trail tale?

  This story highlights how losing a job tied to one's identity can be devastating, but also how unexpected sources, like adopting a pet, can help an individual rediscover their love for nature and find a new sense of purpose.

• What is the main goal of the "Rangers of the Lost Park" podcast?

  The podcast aims to shine a light on public lands and the issues affecting them, using storytelling to make information accessible and engaging. It also focuses on finding joy and hope amidst bad news, featuring diverse guests and promoting community.

• Why is diversity important in the podcasting landscape, according to the discussion?

  Diversity is crucial to ensure podcasts reflect the varied demographics of America, moving beyond a male-dominated space. It allows for a broader range of perspectives, experiences, and voices to be heard, making the content more relatable and representative.

• Which places were suggested as potential national parks or areas deserving more protection?

  The Owyhee Canyonlands in Oregon and the Adirondacks in New York were proposed as areas that could benefit from national park status or enhanced protection due to their unique beauty and ecological importance.

• What are some of the "unhinged" book recommendations?

  Guests recommended "unhinged" books such as "Smother Moss," "Tenders the Flesh," "Gracier," and "The Haunting of Adeline," discussing their bizarre and intense themes.

Show Notes