Ep. 60 Protector of the Wild, Lt. John Nores, Jr. - A California Game Warden's Journey in Conservation, Battling Cartels, and Beyond!

Son of a Blitch

In the realm of conservation, few stories captivate and inspire as profoundly as that of Lt. John Nores Jr., a former California Game Warden whose life journey we traverse in this latest podcast episode. The episode paints a vivid picture of a man who not only served as a guardian of wildlife and natural resources but also rose as an environmental crusader and a beacon of creativity.
John's tale begins with his roots deeply embedded in a family that revered the outdoors. A childhood steeped in environmental stewardship laid the foundation for his career as a game warden, a path fraught with challenges yet rewarding beyond measure. His narrative intertwines the sacredness of nature with his duty, highlighting a spiritual connection to the wilderness that proved essential, particularly during the unprecedented times of a global pandemic. The surge in public interest in outdoor activities amidst the crisis underscored the intrinsic value of our natural world as a sanctuary for the human spirit.
As we delve deeper into John's experiences, the podcast uncovers a clandestine battle being waged within the borders of the United States. Through his most recent book "Hidden War," John brings to light the environmental terrorism perpetrated by cartels engaged in illegal marijuana cultivation. These illicit operations, far from being mere criminal endeavors, have a far-reaching impact on both the environment and society. Pesticides banned for their toxicity in almost every country, except Mexico, are found at these sites, poisoning wildlife and water sources, an alarming revelation that calls for unity and action across political and social divides.
Balancing the intensity of his conservation enforcement role, John's odyssey takes an intriguing turn into the world of knife design and music. The podcast reveals his collaboration on the Trailblazer knife series with Mike Vellekamp's VNIVES, an embodiment of his creativity and commitment to practicality and tactical design. His musical journey, from clarinet to bass guitar in the band Area 56, adds another layer to his already multifaceted persona. Mike and John worked on some music together, which will be discussed on a future podcast with both gentlemen!
John's dedication to conservation is unwavering, as he shares plans for future projects, including an article shedding light on the environmental impact of wild hogs in California and a documentary series that ties conservation to broader societal issues. This determination to continue making a difference resonates throughout the episode, as does the call for collective action to protect our planet.
The episode also touches upon the significance of film in raising awareness about national issues such as human trafficking, drawing attention to the struggle of distributing powerful movies like "Sound of Freedom." Moreover, the chapter addressing national priorities on drug trafficking reveals the insidious spread of substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine across the nation, emphasizing the critical need for education and policy reform.
Listeners are also invited to explore John's foray into podcasting with the "Wardens Watch" and "Thin Green Line" podcasts, platforms through which he connects with audiences to discuss pressing conservation issues and share gripping stories from the front lines of wildlife law enforcement.
This episode serves as a rich tapestry of bravery, creativity, and the indomitable spirit of a man whose life work is a testament to the enduring battle for the preservation of our wild places. Join us in this captivating journey through the life of a true conservation trailblazer.
To learn more about John Nores, visit:
www.JohnNores.com
To learn more about George Blitch, visit:
www.SonofaBlitch.com

Chapters

1. Ep. 60 Protector of the Wild, Lt. John Nores, Jr. - A California Game Warden's Journey in Conservation, Battling Cartels, and Beyond! (00:00:00)

2. Conservation and Enforcement Career Journey (00:00:14)

3. The Hidden Environmental Impact of Cartels (00:12:49)

4. Cartel Influence in Legal Cannabis Market (00:22:31)

5. Impact of Movies on National Issues (00:34:17)

6. National Priorities on Drug Trafficking (00:43:35)

7. Game Warden Podcasts and v Knives (00:55:57)

8. Designing Knives and Making Music (01:02:01)

9. Musical Journey From Wind to Bass (01:13:57)

10. Joining a Band and Hunting Stories (01:23:11)

11. Legacy and Conservation Plans (01:33:51)

12. Tactical Training and Conservation Outreach (01:45:54)

13. Exciting Projects on the Horizon (01:49:39)