163. Protecting Big Bend: Officials, Business Owners, and Outfitters Take a Stand

This week on bigcitysmalltown, we turn our attention to Big Bend—one of the most remote and ecologically significant regions in Texas—amid renewed national debate over plans to build a border wall through Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and surrounding areas. The episode addresses the longstanding local opposition to the wall, the potential impacts on the natural landscape, and what the proposal could mean for communities and businesses in West Texas.Bob is joined by Brewster County Judge Greg Henington, Tara Shackelford of Hidden Dagger Adventures, and Sam Stavanoha, owner of the French Company Grocer and organizer of nobigbendwall.org. Together, they provide insight into the local response, the risks faced by residents and entrepreneurs, and the complicated political landscape influencing the debate.They discuss:• Why locals say Big Bend’s natural barriers render a wall unnecessary• The environmental, economic, and cultural consequences of wall construction in the region• The role of technology as an alternative to physical barriers along the border• Grassroots efforts and local government resolutions opposing the wall• How potential changes could affect tourism, private landowners, and daily life in West TexasIf you are interested in participating in either of the protests happening on Saturday, April 4, visit www.savebigbendatx.org for the Austin protest and nobigbendwall.org for the Big Bend protest.For San Antonio and Texas listeners, this episode provides a close look at the intersection of national policy, local experience, and the fragile ecology of a cornerstone Texas landscape.RECOMMENDED NEXT LISTEN:▶️ #160. How a Polluted Lake Became a Wildlife Haven in San Antonio – Discover the remarkable rebirth of Mitchell Lake as Cory Ames and Erin Magerl reveal how a former sewage dump is now a vital wildlife sanctuary. This episode connects conservation on the borderlands to urban ecological renewal in San Antonio, showing what’s possible when communities rally to protect natural treasures.-- --CONNECT📸 Connect on Instagram🔗 Join us on LinkedIn🎥 Subscribe on YouTubeSPONSORS🙌 Support the show & see our sponsorsTHANK YOU⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts⭐ Rate us on Spotify