Backcountry Report - Ep. 4: Scent, Setbacks, and Stewardship

In this episode of the Backcountry Report, Chris dives into the latest conservation news and boots-on-the-ground action from across the BHA community. We explore a surprising connection between air pollution and wildlife behavior, looking at how pollutants are degrading the natural "smellscape" that animals rely on to survive. Then, we break down urgent policy updates, including a critical public comment period on wetland drain tile setbacks and a major review of Wilderness Study Area management. Finally, we highlight inspiring volunteer efforts from Minnesota to California, featuring a partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps to deliver water to endangered desert bighorn sheep. Plus, get the details on upcoming chapter events you won't want to miss.

Show Notes

Pollution is Changing the Smells of Nature, With Risks for Wildlife: https://e360.yale.edu/features/smellscapes Wilderness Study Areas: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/06/15/2026-11951/policy-review-blm-manual-6320-considering-lands-with-wilderness-characteristics-in-the-blm-land-use Wetland Drain Tile Setback Action Alert: https://t akeaction.io/bha/comment-to-conserve-wetlands-with-science-based-drain-tile-setbacks-2/ North Carolina Banquet: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/events/eventid/4870/e/north-carolina-chapter-4th-annual-conservation-banquet-durham-nc-8-aug-2026 Busting Clays in Western PA: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/events/eventid/5181/e/2026-badlands-classic-3d-archery-shoot-medora-nd-8-aug-2026 North Dakota Badlands Classic: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/events/eventid/5181/e/2026-badlands-classic-3d-archery-shoot-medora-nd-8-aug-2026

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