Exploring Human Impact: PBS’s “Human Footprint” Series Dives into the Colorado River’s Transformation
The PBS documentary series “Human Footprint,” which has earned an Emmy nomination, takes an in-depth look at how human activities have reshaped our planet. Its upcoming episode, “Dammed If You Do,” turns the spotlight on the Colorado River, featuring research from the U.S. Geological Survey’s Grand Canyon Research and Monitoring Center.
This episode includes footage by Harlan Taney, a river guide turned filmmaker from Flagstaff, and insights from writer Paige Buono. The two recently shared their thoughts with KNAU’s Adrian Skabelund about the episode, which is set to premiere at 6 p.m. on Friday at the Orpheum Theater in Flagstaff.
Post-premiere, Taney and Buono will join a panel discussion moderated by Carol Yoncho of Arizona PBS. They will be accompanied by Flagstaff scientists Matt Kaplinski and Lindsay Hansen, alongside Aída Navarro from the Raise the River coalition, all of whom are featured in the episode.
The episode will be broadcast on Arizona PBS on July 23 at 8 p.m.
Inside the Episode with Buono and Taney
Buono: Describing “Human Footprint” as a travel show akin to a blend of Anthony Bourdain’s style and a science show, Buono explains that host Shane Campbell-Staton, an evolutionary biologist, explores topics like water management. “Part of what makes the Colorado River such an illustrative example is that it’s delivering water to a desert,” she says, highlighting the stark impact of human intervention.
The episode follows a journey starting in Italy, then to Las Vegas, where water management and the local water police are examined. It features time spent with researchers in the canyon, farmers in the Imperial Valley, activists at the Salton Sea, and the Colorado River’s delta.
Skabelund: The intersection of film and science, especially in this current climate, is significant. Does this resonate with you?
Taney: Recalling his early days as a guide in the Grand Canyon, Taney expresses enthusiasm about showcasing the scientific work conducted along the Colorado River. “I was so excited to do something that actually brought this work and the science that these guys are doing…to the bigger screen,” he shares.
Hopes and Reflections on the Episode’s Impact
Skabelund: What do you hope viewers take away from this episode?
Taney: Highlighting the work of scientists like Matt Kaplinski and Lindsay Hansen, Taney hopes their efforts are recognized on public television, adding, “To me, my outlook on it is just getting to bring these people…into the world.”
Buono: Emphasizing the complexity of the issues presented, Buono notes the show doesn’t offer simple solutions. “I think we’ve trapped ourselves in a system that is so hard to move,” she reflects, hoping the episode inspires viewers to reconsider their perspectives on future water management.
The Significance of a Local Premiere
Skabelund: How does it feel to debut this work at The Orpheum in Flagstaff?
Taney: “It feels amazing,” Taney acknowledges, appreciating the timeliness amidst ongoing debates about science and public lands.
Buono: “We just want this to feel like a celebration of the hard work…and it’s a stressful, exhausting time,” Buono adds, expressing a desire for the premiere to serve as both a rallying cry and a moment of community solidarity.
Skabelund: Thank you both for your insights.
Taney: Thank you.
Buono: Thanks so much.
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