40. The Enduring Wild, and Forgotten Lands Project w/ Josh Jackson

In this discussion, we interview Josh Jackson, author of The Enduring Wild and creator of the Forgotten Lands project, which documents and advocates for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands across the American West. Through his writing and photography, Josh has become a leading voice in drawing attention to these vast, often-overlooked landscapes, which represent our largest—and most vulnerable—public land holdings.

BLM lands differ significantly from national parks and monuments, lacking the same level of protection and public awareness despite comprising millions of acres of critical habitat and stunning wilderness. Through his travels across California’s deserts, particularly the Mojave and the Eastern Sierra Nevada, Josh discovered landscapes of remarkable beauty and ecological significance that were hiding in plain sight. From the otherworldly Trona Pinnacles to the threatened Conglomerate Mesa in the Owens Valley, these “forgotten lands” face mounting challenges from mining interests, development pressures, and shifting political climates.

In our conversation, Josh shares personal stories of exploring these desert landscapes with his children, explains how everyday people can access and advocate for BLM lands, and discusses current threats, such as the proposed mining at Conglomerate Mesa. He also reflects on recent victories, including pushback against the “Big Beautiful Bill,” and offers hope for the future of public lands protection through education, sustainable recreation, and grassroots advocacy.

Join us for this inspiring discussion about America’s enduring wild places and why these forgotten landscapes deserve our attention, appreciation, and protection!

 

BOOK SUMMARY:

The Enduring Wild chronicles Josh Jackson’s journey across America’s BLM territories, revealing the hidden majesty of landscapes that exist outside the famous national park system. Through compelling narrative and stunning photography, the book documents the ecological richness and cultural significance of these “forgotten lands” while exposing the unique threats they face from extractive industries and inadequate protections. Jackson weaves together personal stories, natural history, and urgent advocacy to argue that these vast public lands represent both our greatest conservation challenge and opportunity. The book serves as both a love letter to overlooked wilderness and a call to action for Americans to recognize and protect the enduring wild places that belong to us all.

Buy the book here.

 

RAY OF HOPE:

While threats to public lands can feel overwhelming, there’s something powerful happening: ordinary people are falling in love with “forgotten” places. BLM lands, once ignored in favor of famous national parks, are finding their champions—writers, photographers, families, and local communities who recognize that protection doesn’t require a famous name, just people who care.

Recent advocacy victories demonstrate that public engagement is an effective strategy. When communities rallied against harmful legislation such as the “Big Beautiful Bill,” their voices made a difference. Grassroots organizations are successfully protecting threatened areas, such as Conglomerate Mesa, by educating the public about what’s at stake. The desert isn’t barren—it’s full of life, stories, and people ready to defend it.

The beautiful truth? These lands belong to all of us. You don’t need special credentials to explore, photograph, or speak up for them. Every hike, every shared photo, every letter to a representative adds to a growing movement recognizing that our wildest places aren’t just worth visiting—they’re worth fighting for.

 

ANXIETY TO ACTION:

Practice Sustainable Recreation: Follow “Leave No Trace” principles, stay on designated trails, and educate others about protecting sensitive desert ecosystems while enjoying them responsibly.

Raise Your Voice: Contact your representatives about public lands protection. Support organizations working to defend BLM lands. Provide public comments when lands face development threats. Democracy works when citizens participate.

 

Take Action:

• Explore your local BLM lands. 

• Join the USAL project and take a field trip with Josh Jackson

• Visit the BLM website to find public lands near you. 

• Take a hike, bring a camera, and share what you discover. 

• Purchase The Enduring Wild and join the Planet People book club.

CONNECT WITH JOSH:

The Enduring Wild - Visit his website here.

Follow Josh’s project on Instagram and Substack. 

 

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