The Poor Prole’s Almanac

Ethan Bonnin, a passionate ecologist and researcher, brings his expertise from the borderlands of southeastern Arizona to our podcast, exploring the intricate balance between ecology and agriculture in the American Southwest. With his background in wildlife biology and conservation, Ethan sheds light on the environmental impacts of livestock grazing on fragile riparian ecosystems. He shares his firsthand experiences and fieldwork insights that reveal the pressing need for legislative action to protect these ecologically vital areas, particularly in the face of relentless drought conditions and habitat degradation. Our discussion takes a critical look at the historical and current land management practices contributing to land degradation in the Southwest. We examine the effects of cattle grazing on public lands, highlighting the damaging cycle of desertification and overgrazing that threatens once-flourishing grasslands. Ethan discusses the controversial role of rotational grazing and the need for innovative solutions, such as flash grazing, to mitigate environmental impacts. We also reflect on the broader implications of urbanization, particularly in desert cities like Phoenix, where water extraction strains ancient aquifers, disrupting both human and ecological communities. Ethan's efforts in environmental advocacy highlight the societal disconnect from our natural world, challenging listeners to rethink societal priorities that often place economic interests above environmental sustainability. Through Ethan's vivid imagery and personal stories, we journey into the heart of Arizona's environmental challenges and the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we interact with and value our ecosystems. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking conversation on fostering a deeper connection with our environment, advocating for change, and ensuring the preservation of our planet's ecological and cultural integrity for future generations. Follow Ethan on Instagram @barefoot_biological For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Ecology, Agriculture, American Southwest, Livestock Grazing, Riparian Ecosystems, Legislative Action, Desertification, Land Management, Cattle Grazing, Public Lands, Drought, Habitat Degradation, Urbanization, Water Extraction, Environmental Advocacy, Paradigm Shift, Environmental Sustainability, Desert Cities, Water Availability, Monsoon Rains, Rotational Grazing, Savory Method, Seed Banks, Tree Recruitment, Beaver Removal, Wetland Drainage, Aquifer Recharge, Native Vegetation, Flash Grazing, Cat Ownership, Urbanization, Water Cycles, Rising Temperatures, Erratic Weather Patterns, Environmental Awareness, Social Justice, Indigenous Communities, Corporate Exploitation, Political Figures, Oak Flat Controversy, Environmental Preservation, Cultural Integrity, Desertification Awareness, Imagery, Instagram, Environmental Stress, Technological Prowess, Natural Environments

Discover the intriguing world of chufa, or tiger nuts, and their ancient significance in human diets. Learn about their role in the beloved Spanish drink, horchata, and how indigenous techniques made them agricultural gems. The podcast reveals chufa’s surprising nutritional benefits, even outshining staples like soy and wheat. With unique properties that enhance resilience in farming, chufa could revolutionize sustainable agriculture. End on a hopeful note as the journey through this fascinating plant leaves listeners eager for more discoveries!

The streets of Chicago are alive with tension, and the backdrop of our episode is nothing less than the real-life drama of ICE operations and the city's spirited resistance. We welcome back Omar Flores from the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, who joins us to recount his personal encounter with ICE officers, unmasking their covert tactics and the community's unwavering resolve to fight back. His story of confronting ICE agents in unmarked vehicles and the community's rapid response serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action in the face of intimidation. The heart of our discussion beats with the rhythm of grassroots resilience and the alarming escalation of ICE's methods. We navigate through the scenes in neighborhoods like Pilsen, where families are torn apart with chilling impunity. Local heroes from organizations such as the Pilsen Rapid Response Network and Organizing Communities Against Deportation emerge as beacons of hope, orchestrating peaceful standoffs and documenting every move to hold authorities accountable. Together with Omar, we dissect the strategies of resistance, the crucial role of documentation, and the pressing need for transparency in these times of crisis. As the episode unfolds, the broader implications of ICE's actions ripple through communities, affecting students and activists alike. We explore the unsettling consequences of visa revocations and deportations, particularly among those involved in activism. With a focus on the legal, emotional, and societal impacts, we highlight the ever-important engagement of immigrant rights organizations in Chicago. These stories of courage and defiance illuminate not just the struggle of today but the ongoing battle for justice and dignity in the face of relentless adversity. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: ICE Raids, Chicago, Resistance, Community, Grassroots, Deportation, Immigrant Rights, Activism, Transparency, Documentation, Collective Action, ICE Surveillance, Escalation, Rapid Response, ICE Operations, Pilsen, Omar Flores, Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, ICE Agents, Unmarked Vehicles, Community Outreach, Immigration Enforcement, ISAP, Detentions, Ankle Bracelets, Sanctuary City, FOIA Requests, Visa Revocations, Deportations, Palestinian Activism, Repression, Immigrant Rights Organizations, CARPER, ICER, OCAD, Protests, Activists, DACA, Community Engagement, Hope

Join us for a captivating exploration into the world of the evening primrose, a fascinating plant known for its resilience and unique characteristics. We kick things off by unraveling the botanical intricacies of the evening primrose family, highlighting its ability to thrive in disturbed habitats like roadsides and abandoned fields. Our humorous take on the transcription service's interpretation of our podcast's name, including a playful nod to New Jersey's pork rolls, sets the tone for an engaging episode. As we celebrate the evening primrose's remarkable seed viability and adaptability, we also touch on its misunderstood status as a weed, likening its persistence to a civilization's industrial waste. Listen in as we explore the historical and genetic journey of the evening primrose. With a nod to its native roots in North America, we discuss how indigenous peoples, particularly the Cherokee, utilized the plant's roots for sustenance. We reflect on the evening primrose's journey to Europe in the 19th century and ponder the French fascination with root crops. The conversation humorously speculates on the potential advancements in genetic technology inspired by the plant's unique traits, adding a playful twist with terms like "CRISPR technology" and "cruncher technology." Our discussion takes an intriguing turn as we examine the evening primrose's genetic conservation mechanisms, focusing on its balanced lethal genes and chromosome rings. We consider the plant's historical significance in indigenous diets and its ecological impact, drawing comparisons to other plants like groundnuts.   To read Dr. Koziol's work, visit her Google Scholar page here. For MycoBloom, please check out their products here! For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   key words: Evening Primrose, Botanical Wonders, Resilient Plant, Genetic Marvels, Genetic Technology, Genetic Conservation, Genetic Advancements, Genetic Mechanisms, Genetic Diversity, Genetic Traits, Genetic Rules, Genetic Clones, Indigenous Peoples, Medicinal Qualities, Ecological Impact, Smoke Detectors, Legal Advice, Gardening Advice, LLC

Dr. Liz Koziol, a pioneering assistant research professor at the University of Kansas, shares her compelling journey into the realm of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and their pivotal role in grassland restoration. Her unconventional path, sparked by an unexpected lab job, and guided by mentors Jim Bieber and Peggy Schultz, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of plant-microbe interactions. We discuss how AM fungi symbiotically support plant nutrition, bolster plant immune responses, and significantly impact plant competition and ecosystem dynamics. Our conversation takes a dynamic turn as Dr. Koziol unveils MycoBloom, her entrepreneurial venture bridging a crucial market gap by delivering high-quality native fungi to restoration practitioners. The dialogue highlights the daunting challenges in isolating and cultivating these fungi, while shedding light on the pressing quality control issues within the commercial microbial inoculants industry. Dr. Koziol emphasizes the transformative agricultural benefits of AM fungi, from boosting crop growth to revitalizing soil health, underscoring the necessity for reliable and effective solutions in ecological restoration. We delve into the complexities of the mycorrhizal fungi industry, tackling issues from regulation to the lack of global standards. Dr. Koziol offers insights into the work of InVam, a nonprofit committed to maintaining quality and expertise in the field. As we explore the potential of mycorrhizal fungi in enhancing plant diversity and combating invasive species, Dr. Koziol articulates the importance of diversity and local adaptation in AMF communities. Despite industry hurdles, there is optimism about the fungi's incredible potential in environmental restoration and agriculture, promising a brighter, more sustainable future.   To read Dr. Koziol's work, visit her Google Scholar page here. For MycoBloom, please check out their products here! For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Mycorrhizal fungi, Grassland restoration, Plant-microbe interactions, AM fungi, University of Kansas, Plant nutrition, Plant immune responses, Ecosystem dynamics, MycoBloom, Entrepreneurial venture, Native fungi, Restoration practitioners, Quality control, Agricultural benefits, Crop growth, Soil health, Microbial inoculants, Industry challenges, Regulation, Global standards, InVam, Nonprofit, Ecological succession, Inhibiting weeds, Pathogens, Filler organisms, Quality control, Expertise, U.S. regulatory landscape, Ecological restoration, Plant diversity, Invasive species, Seedlings, Seed-based approaches, Old growth fungal inoculants, Late-sessional plants, Ecological resilience, Korean natural farming, Open-access research, Skepticism, Industry standards, Product efficacy, Reliability, Environmental restoration, Collective effort, Increased awareness, Effective utilization

Imagine forests that once covered vast swathes of the southeastern United States, now reduced to a fraction of their former glory. Join us with Bill Finch, co-founder of Finch Conservation, as we explore his lifelong mission to preserve the longleaf pine forests, one of North America's richest ecosystems. Bill's childhood adventures in Mississippi and Alabama's woods sparked a passion that led to his book "Longleaf: Far as the Eye Can See," offering a fresh perspective on conserving these critical habitats. Climate change is reshaping ecosystems, and in this episode, we delve into the role of American elms and the complex relationships within forest ecosystems. We discuss the necessity of strategic human intervention to help species adapt, while avoiding the pitfalls of invasive species. Bill draws parallels between ecological and medical practices, highlighting our limited understanding of these systems and the urgent need for further research to protect the balance of nature. Together, we address the pressing need for collective action in the face of environmental challenges, and the hope that this crisis could inspire a renewed relationship with nature. The conversation emphasizes creativity and diverse perspectives in crafting effective conservation strategies. Capturing the beauty of these landscapes, Bill’s wife’s photography in "Longleaf: Far as the Eye Can See" serves as a powerful testament to the potential of these ecosystems as a model for conservation efforts. Tune in to uncover the challenges and hopes for securing a sustainable future for the southeastern United States. To grab Bill's book, visit: https://finchconservation.net/ For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Conservation, Southeast, Longleaf Pine Forests, Biodiversity, Preservation, American Elms, Climate Change, Ecological Balance, Species, Genetic Diversity, Soil Microorganisms, Alabama, North America, Oaks, Hickories, Public Interest, Federal Funding, Environmental Conservation, Collective Action, Wake-up Call, Creativity, Diverse Opinions, Photography, Savanna System, New Jersey Pine Barrens, Funding

Ethan Tapper, a Vermont-based forester and author, discusses the intricacies of forest stewardship and the urgent challenges posed by climate change. He advocates for transparent conversations about controversial practices like herbicide use, emphasizing that action is often better than inaction. Ethan also dives into deer overpopulation in Vermont, detailing its ecological impact and the complexities surrounding hunting regulations. His insights encourage open dialogue about conservation, urging listeners to embrace humility and adaptability in their environmental efforts.

Welcome to the quirky and educational world of sunchokes, affectionately dubbed "fartichokes," as we explore their rich history and surprisingly gassy reputation. We start with a playful idea of turning a chicken coop live stream into a comedic business venture before diving into the fascinating journey of the Jerusalem artichoke. From their roots in Native American cuisine to their adoption in European gardens, these tubers have traveled through cultures and languages, picking up a humorous misnomer along the way. Embark on a whimsical journey with us as we unravel the tangled tale of the sunchoke's many names, featuring Italian, Dutch, and Scandinavian twists. Discover how these misinterpretations and cross-cultural mix-ups led to the plant's curious collection of monikers. Meanwhile, global breeding programs and ambitious, if somewhat far-fetched, dreams of energy production spotlight the sunchoke's surprising adaptability and persistent allure. Wrap it all up with an amusing look at the health benefits of inulin, the prebiotic powerhouse that gives sunchokes their notorious reputation. We ponder if modern gut health might one day tame the infamous side effects these tubers carry. With a nod to the idea of reducing government sizes in a playful way, we leave you with a hearty laugh and an invitation to see sunchokes as more than just a misunderstood vegetable. Whether you're a history buff, a gardening enthusiast, or simply love a good chuckle, this episode offers something for everyone. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Sunchokes, Jerusalem Artichokes, History, Misnomer, Cultures, Languages, Monikers, Misinterpretations, Cross-cultural, Mix-ups, Brazil, Topinambur, Breeding Programs, Sunchoke Research, Inulin, Prebiotic, Gut Health, Federal Agencies, Tuber Pulling, Humor, Comedy, Business Venture, Indigenous Peoples, North America, European Settlers, Sunflower Family, Homesteaders, Preppers, Survival Food, Samuel de Champlain, Linguistic Confusion, Scandinavian, Jordskok, Indigenous Origins, North America, Sunchoke Cultivar, Clearwater, Potato-like Tubers, Runners, Heirloom Varieties, Indigenous Communities, Gut Microbiome, Nutritional Benefits, Government Size, Stickers, Patches, Agroecologies.com, Recording Session, Playful Creativity

Dr. Steven Cannon, a distinguished research geneticist from the USDA Agricultural Research Service, graces the podcast with his expertise in plant genomics and crop improvement. From a childhood love of gardening to pioneering work in bioinformatics, Dr. Cannon's journey is as enriching as the legumes he studies. We explore the promising, yet challenging, world of Apios americana, or groundnut—an ancient crop with high protein content and deep roots in North American indigenous cultures. Despite its potential, the labor-intensive harvesting process has kept it from dominating our fields, but ongoing research at institutions like LSU and Iowa State University continues to push its boundaries. Our conversation doesn't stop there. We shine a spotlight on the world of lesser-known legume crops and tubers. These include climate warriors like winged bean and scarlet runner bean, which offer sustainable solutions amidst the challenges of climate change. We discuss the underexplored potential of legumes like lupini beans and grass pea in enriching American diets while contributing to sustainable agriculture. As climate change accelerates, learning from resilient crops like apios and jicama is crucial. From the marama groundnut to the Kentucky coffee tree, this episode is a treasure trove of insights into building a more diverse, resilient, and sustainable food system for the future. To check out Dr. Cannon's work, check out his profile here. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Plant Genomics, Crop Improvement, Legumes, Apios Americana, Groundnut, Indigenous Cultures, Sustainable Solutions, Climate Change, Resilient Crops, Tubers, Lupini Beans, Grass Pea, Ahipa, Jicama, Kentucky Coffee Tree, Landrace Crops, Agriculture, Bioinformatics, Breeding, Productivity, Nutrition, Diversity    

Podcast Summary Can a humble tuber change the face of sustainable agriculture? Explore the fascinating world of Apios americana, the groundnut, as we uncover its rich history and its potential to revolutionize our food systems. Our journey takes us back to its indigenous roots in North America, through its historical introduction to Europe, and onto its role as a staple food source for communities that understood its dual nature as both a bean and a root crop. With its nitrogen-fixing properties and intriguing possibility of co-evolution with an extinct pollinator, this plant is more than meets the eye. We share tales of its importance in wetland habitats and its interaction within managed ecosystems, where it sits alongside plants like black walnuts and pawpaws. Groundnut enthusiasts, we've got a treat for you! Uncover the genetic complexities of Apios americana, from its diploid and triploid forms to the quirky "mule plants" that emerge from some crossbreeding efforts. We dive into historical breeding projects, including a nod to the ambitious 1985 Louisiana State University project led by Bill Blackman and Berthel Reynolds. Their work laid the groundwork for today's efforts to improve groundnut characteristics. Discover the global fascination with this tuber, from backyard breeders' innovations to international collaborations aiming to enhance tuber size and nitrogen fixation capabilities. The chapter also reveals why the LA85-034 variety remains a fan favorite among groundnut aficionados. Round out this botanical adventure with a look at the groundnut's nutritional prowess and culinary potential. Despite its potato-like appearance, Apios americana offers three times the protein, positioning it as a nutritional powerhouse. We'll explore why it hasn't yet captured the Western palate and suggest creative culinary uses that could change that. Join us as we mix humor, history, and horticulture, ensuring a fun and informative experience that promises to leave you hungry for more knowledge and perhaps a taste of groundnut pie! For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Apios americana, Sustainable Agriculture, Groundnut, Nitrogen-fixing, Botanists, Historians, Indigenous Cultures, North America, European Diets, Genetic Diversity, Ecological Role, Co-evolution, Extinct Pollinator, Wetland Habitats, Black Walnuts, Pawpaws, Crop Management, Genetic Quirks, Louisiana State University, Backyard Breeders, International Collaborations, Protein, Nutritional Benefits, Growing Conditions, Western Diets, Keto Movement, Sun Chokes, Interview, Sunchokes, Matt, Playful Banter, Unpredictable, Show Lineup, Smooth Send-off