Mossback Podcast | How historic racism limits access to the PNW wilderness Many preservation advocates, from John Muir to Teddy Roosevelt, held discriminatory views that continue to affect equality in outdoor recreation. by Alison Mariella Désir / March 5, 2025
Indigenous Affairs Native nations lead salmon restoration efforts in Columbia Basin The number of returning adult salmon and steelhead has doubled since the 1990s, but is still only halfway to the NWPCC’s goal of 5 million. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore + ICT / February 10, 2025
News What’s next after Washington passes pro-natural gas measure? Initiative 2066 aimed to keep gas as a utility option for consumers. But potential court challenges could complicate putting it into action. by Jerry Cornfield Washington State Standard / November 29, 2024
Mossback Mossback’s Northwest: How racism pervades PNW outdoors culture Alison Mariella Désir and Knute Berger talk about the complex legacy of Catherine Montgomery, often called “the mother of the Pacific Crest Trail.” by Knute Berger & Alison Mariella Désir & Gavin Borchert / October 25, 2024
Politics Washington state lawmakers may get a 14% raise over next two years A citizen panel recommends the pay bump, which would push annual salaries over $70,000, to keep pace with growing duties and rising costs of living. by Jerry Cornfield Washington State Standard / October 15, 2024
Equity Out & Back: Reclaiming recreational spaces for BIPOC communities Alison Mariella Désir bucks expectations as she explores outdoor activities that have historically been inaccessible to people of color. by Alison Mariella Désir / July 5, 2024
Indigenous Affairs Cowlitz Tribe youth help lead this year’s First Salmon Ceremony “It’s what we do to thank the salmon for what they give,” said Lydia Hodges, 15, part of the new generation carrying on the sacred ritual. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore + ICT / June 24, 2024
News State audit says WA police seizures require more transparency Though the report said agencies are complying with the law, they could do better at helping people reclaim seized property and tracking demographic data. by Jerry Cornfield Washington State Standard / April 19, 2024
Equity Out & Back: Creating a brave space for BIPOC cyclists Alison Mariella Désir meets with Will Cortez, co-founder of BikePOC PNW, an organization creating space and community for bike riders of color. by Alison Mariella Désir / March 29, 2024
Equity Out & Back: Riding the waves with Indigenous youth Alison Mariella Désir surfs for the first time on Quinault shores with Warm Current, a camp that shares the sport with young Native students by Alison Mariella Désir / March 22, 2024