Episode 143: Beavering Beyond Boundaries With Joaquin Murrieta-Saldivar
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Joaquin Murrieta-Saldivar, Cultural Ecologist Director, Watershed Management Group
Joaquin Murrieta-Saldivar specializes in building resilience in diverse communities by enhancing the connections between people, culture, and natural resources. He brings vast experience on the multicultural border region between the US and Mexico, where he has implemented community-based approaches to watershed management, river restoration, geo-tourism, conservation of native peoples, and best practices for the ranching community.
He has worked with the Sonoran Institute and as a consultant for National Geographic Society and other organizations. Joaquin is a graduate of the University of Arizona with MSc in Natural Resources and Agricultural Economics and a PhD in Renewable Natural Resources Studies.
Joaquin presenting at BeaverCON, Fall 2024. Photo: Jack Humphrey
Show Notes
Beavering in Urban and Rural Landscapes: Balancing Conservation and UrbanizationÂ
In this episode of the Rewilding Earth podcast, Joaquin Murrieta-Saldivar discusses his experiences at BeaverCon, an inspirational event that brings together conservationists and enthusiasts to talk about the role of beavers in ecosystem restoration. Highlighting interactions from international participants and the cultural relevance of integrating wildlife into human habitats, Joaquin illustrates various conservation efforts.
He elaborates on his work with non-profits, government programs, and community initiatives focusing on green stormwater infrastructure and rainwater harvesting in Tucson, Arizona. Emphasizing the need for rewilding cities and rural areas, he offers insights into the benefits of creating urban wildlife habitats, the significance of sensible water management, and the enthusiasm of local ranching communities in restoring natural ecosystems. Joaquin’s account underscores the collaborative spirit and innovative strategies driving successful conservation projects.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:07 BeaverCon Experience
01:31 International Perspectives on Beavers
03:34 Challenges and Opportunities with Beavers
05:56 Urban Conservation and Water Management
06:21 Personal Conservation Journey
09:22 Rain Gardens and Urban Wildlife
14:35 Community and Government Involvement
16:53 Ranching and Rural Conservation
18:37 Beaver Reintroduction Efforts
21:35 Water Conservation and Future Goals
28:57 Rewilding and Human-Nature Relationship
35:07 Conclusion and Call to Action
Extra Credit
- Check out Joaquin’s work and learn how to get involved at Watershed Management Group
Director of Digital Outreach (D.O.D.O.) for The Rewilding Institute
Host and Producer of the Rewilding Earth Podcast
Jack started Rewilding work as Executive Director of Sky Island Alliance in the mid-1990’s, organizing the Sky Island Wildlands Network design, ripping up illegal roads on forest service lands, installing wolf acclimatization pens on Ted Turner’s Ladder Ranch & conducting howling surveys to help make way for the final stage of the Lobo reintroduction program in the Southwest.
Through the years, Jack has worked with Dave Foreman and the Rewilding Gang to further Rewilding initiatives and education.