35. Desert Tortoise Council: Training the Next Generation of Desert Tortoise Biologists w/ Mary Lane Poe

Join us for an in-depth conversation about Mojave desert tortoise conservation efforts, from the original endangered species designation to current threats and protection strategies. In this interview with Mary Lane Poe of the Desert Tortoise Council, we review the many threats facing the desert tortoise, as well as meaningful ways for people to take action and even start a career in desert tortoise conservation. 

RAY OF HOPE:

Here's something incredible: Desert tortoises are ancient ecosystem engineers that have survived ice ages, volcanic eruptions, and dramatic climate shifts over 15 million years. These slow-and-steady champions create burrows that become life-saving refuges for over 300 other desert species - from burrowing owls to kit foxes to countless invertebrates. They're living proof that resilience isn't about speed or aggression; it's about creating infrastructure that benefits entire communities.

The Desert Tortoise Council represents something beautiful: people so inspired by these remarkable creatures that they've dedicated their lives to protecting them. Every time you engage with their social media, you're amplifying science-based conservation efforts that are working. 

The silver lining? Desert tortoises remind us that survival isn't just about individual resilience - it's about building systems that help everyone thrive. When you advocate for the places you love, you're following the tortoise model: creating lasting change through steady, persistent action.

 

ANXIETY TO ACTION:

You can turn your anxiety into action by volunteering with the Desert Tortoise Council, such as participating in the annual symposium event, serving on a committee, or becoming a board member. Additionally, it helps to interact with the Desert Tortoise Council Website social media, follow, like, comment, and share. It's also equally important to advocate for the places you love by writing official comment letters, calling your reps, and letting them know we need to keep these environmental policies in place.

 

EPISODE RESOURCES:

• Sign up for the Desert Tortoise Introductory course here 
• Annual symposium event information can be found here
• Health Assessment Training can be found here  
• Learn more about habitat conservation with the Mojave Desert Land Trust

 

FOLLOW MARY LANE POE AND THE DTC ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

• Follow Mary Lane Poe on Instagram 
• Follow the Desert Tortoise Council on Instagram

FOLLOW PLANET PEOPLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA: 

• Follow Planet People on Instagram: @planet.people.pod
• Subscribe to us on YouTube: @PlanetPeoplePodcast