The Poor Prole’s Almanac Podcast By The Poor Prole’s Alamanac Bleav cover art

The Poor Prole’s Almanac

The Poor Prole’s Almanac

By: The Poor Prole’s Alamanac Bleav
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Climate Change got you down? Worried about the fact that *everything* seems to be getting worse? Wondering how we got to this point in the first place, and what can we do to build a more resilient future? We take a look at historical pastoral & agricultural societies to see what worked and what didn’t, as well as what resources we have today to make better decisions to build equitable systems. We don’t just discuss ecology and history but also take a leftist perspective on prepping, foraging, homesteading, weapons, community-building, and basically anything that needs discussing during late-stage capitalism.Copyright 2020 All rights reserved. Biological Sciences Science
Episodes
  • Adapting Forests to Climate Change: Insights from Dr. Alexandra Kosiba on Resilience and Management Strategies
    Jul 9 2025

    Join us as we explore the intricate world of forests with Dr. Allie Kosiba, a top-notch forest ecophysiologist and State Extension Forester at the University of Vermont. Dr. Kosiba brings her extensive research on tree physiology to the forefront, sharing how trees are reacting to the pressures of climate change, acid rain, and other environmental challenges. Our discussion highlights the significance of forest monitoring through techniques like aerial surveys, which provide essential insights into maintaining healthy forest ecosystems amid a rapidly changing climate.

    We also delve into the struggles of white pine forests in the Northeast, examining how historical land use patterns have contributed to current vulnerabilities. Dr. Kosiba stresses the crucial role of active forest management strategies in promoting species diversity and complexity, which enhance forest resilience against diseases worsened by climate change. The conversation expands into the realm of forest management techniques, exploring the benefits of forest thinning, selective planting, and assisted migration to create more adaptable forest ecosystems.

    Further, our discussion touches on the delicate process of sap extraction from sugar maples and its sensitivity to shifting weather patterns. Dr. Kosiba discusses strategies to bolster resilience, such as introducing hardier tree species and recognizing the vital role of snow in protecting soil health. As we explore the broader impacts of climate change on our forests, we emphasize the importance of fostering carbon and biodiversity while confronting the challenges of monoculture stands. With optimism and actionable insights, this episode encourages proactive steps to help our forests adapt and thrive, securing their essential roles in our environment for future generations.

    To check out Dr. Kosiba's work, visit: https://www.uvm.edu/extension/profile/alexandra-ali-kosiba

    For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

    To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

    For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com

    For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/

    For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

    To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

    Key Words:

    Forests, Climate Change, Forest Health, Forest Monitoring, Tree Physiology, Aerial Surveys, Ground Truthing, White Pine, Northeast, Forest Management, Species Diversity, Forest Resilience, Climate Resilience, Forest Thinning, Selective Planting, Assisted Migration, Sap Extraction, Sugar Maples, Snow, Carbon, Biodiversity, Monoculture Stands, Complex Adaptive Systems, Ice Age, Human Intervention, Landowners, Community Initiatives

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    44 mins
  • Balancing Ecology and Agriculture: Challenges and Solutions in the Borderlands
    Jul 3 2025

    Ethan Bonnin, a passionate ecologist and researcher, brings his expertise from the borderlands of southeastern Arizona to our podcast, exploring the intricate balance between ecology and agriculture in the American Southwest. With his background in wildlife biology and conservation, Ethan sheds light on the environmental impacts of livestock grazing on fragile riparian ecosystems. He shares his firsthand experiences and fieldwork insights that reveal the pressing need for legislative action to protect these ecologically vital areas, particularly in the face of relentless drought conditions and habitat degradation.

    Our discussion takes a critical look at the historical and current land management practices contributing to land degradation in the Southwest. We examine the effects of cattle grazing on public lands, highlighting the damaging cycle of desertification and overgrazing that threatens once-flourishing grasslands. Ethan discusses the controversial role of rotational grazing and the need for innovative solutions, such as flash grazing, to mitigate environmental impacts. We also reflect on the broader implications of urbanization, particularly in desert cities like Phoenix, where water extraction strains ancient aquifers, disrupting both human and ecological communities.

    Ethan's efforts in environmental advocacy highlight the societal disconnect from our natural world, challenging listeners to rethink societal priorities that often place economic interests above environmental sustainability. Through Ethan's vivid imagery and personal stories, we journey into the heart of Arizona's environmental challenges and the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we interact with and value our ecosystems. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking conversation on fostering a deeper connection with our environment, advocating for change, and ensuring the preservation of our planet's ecological and cultural integrity for future generations.

    Follow Ethan on Instagram @barefoot_biological

    For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

    To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

    For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com

    For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/

    For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

    To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

    Key Words:

    Ecology, Agriculture, American Southwest, Livestock Grazing, Riparian Ecosystems, Legislative Action, Desertification, Land Management, Cattle Grazing, Public Lands, Drought, Habitat Degradation, Urbanization, Water Extraction, Environmental Advocacy, Paradigm Shift, Environmental Sustainability, Desert Cities, Water Availability, Monsoon Rains, Rotational Grazing, Savory Method, Seed Banks, Tree Recruitment, Beaver Removal, Wetland Drainage, Aquifer Recharge, Native Vegetation, Flash Grazing, Cat Ownership, Urbanization, Water Cycles, Rising Temperatures, Erratic Weather Patterns, Environmental Awareness, Social Justice, Indigenous Communities, Corporate Exploitation, Political Figures, Oak Flat Controversy, Environmental Preservation, Cultural Integrity, Desertification Awareness, Imagery, Instagram, Environmental Stress, Technological Prowess, Natural Environments

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    55 mins
  • Tiger Nuts Unveiled: Chufa's History, Cultivation, and Future in Sustainable Agriculture
    Jun 22 2025

    Unlock the secrets of chufa, the humble tiger nut, as we journey through its fascinating history and cultural significance. Discover how this ancient tuber played a role in the diets of our early hominin ancestors and continues to captivate culinary aficionados today. We promise you'll see chufa in a whole new light, from its starring role in the beloved Spanish drink, horchata, to its unexpected ancient roots in Central America that challenge long-held narratives.

    You'll be amazed by the genetic quirks and ecological nuances of chufa cultivation. Did you know these unassuming tubers are distant cousins of the notorious yellow nutsedge? Our conversation reveals how indigenous people employed sophisticated agricultural techniques to harness chufa's potential long before modern farming took note. We also tackle the environmental implications of introducing chufa to new habitats and the delicate balance between nature and cultivation.

    As we wrap up the season, we delve into chufa's nutritional powerhouse status, potentially outshining staple crops like soy and wheat. Imagine a crop that not only thrives in various climates but also offers high protein and oil content akin to olive oil. With its C4 photosynthesis granting it an edge in warmer temperatures, chufa could be a game-changer for sustainable agriculture. Our candid reflection on the season's journey leaves you with smiles and anticipation for what's next in our exploration of the plant world.

    For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

    To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac

    For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com

    For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/

    For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org

    To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/

    Key words:

    Chufa, Tiger Nut, Culinary, Horchata, Ancient, Central America, Genetic Diversity, Cultivation, Indigenous Peoples, Agricultural Practices, Irrigation, Adaptability, Nutrition, Sustainability, Crop, Potential, C4 Photosynthesis, Climate Change, Season Finale

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    41 mins
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A great podcast with fun and informative hosts and guests working to find solutions to the problems we're facing today.

Informative and enjoyable

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this is one of the best sources of information I have ever listened to on the subject of prepping and societal collapse. Andy and Elliot doing an absolutely amazing job explaining difficult to understand Concepts. they also bring an air of freshness to the conversation and highlight points of views that are often neglected. I cannot recommend that podcast enough

amazing listening for the concerned

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This podcast dives deep in to all the subject we are going to need to know in the coming future. From growing food to anarchy theory. It’s all here.

The best podcast

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