Expeditions With Patrick McMillan Season 1 Episode 7 Arizona, a Border or a Barrier?

Expeditions With Patrick McMillan is a nature documentary series that highlights the beauty and diversity of the United States' natural landscapes. In season 1, episode 7, the show explores the complex relationship between the state of Arizona and its border with Mexico.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the rugged and arid terrain of southeastern Arizona, where the Sonoran Desert meets the Sierra Madre mountain range. The region is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including rare species like the ocelot and jaguarundi.

However, Arizona's unique environment has also made it a focal point in the national debate over immigration and border security. The state's 370-mile border with Mexico is one of the most heavily trafficked in the world, with thousands of people and millions of pounds of contraband crossing each year.

To explore the impact of this border on Arizona's natural and human communities, host Patrick McMillan journeys to several locations along the state's southern edge. He talks with local residents, scientists, and law enforcement officials to gain a nuanced understanding of the issues at play.

In one segment, McMillan visits the Coronado National Memorial, a protected wilderness area that spans the international border. Park rangers explain how the area's wildlife, including bighorn sheep and black bear, are impacted by the constant flow of people and vehicles through the region. They also describe the challenges of managing a park that spans two countries with different priorities and laws.

In another segment, McMillan travels to the Tohono O'odham Nation, a Native American reservation that straddles the border with Mexico. Tribal leaders explain how their land has been split in two by the construction of a border wall, forcing them to navigate a complex web of federal and tribal law to maintain their traditional way of life.

Throughout the episode, McMillan emphasizes the interconnectedness of Arizona's ecosystems and communities. He argues that simplistic solutions to immigration and border security are unlikely to be effective or sustainable, and urges viewers to seek out a deeper understanding of these complex issues.

Overall, Arizona, a Border or a Barrier? is a thought-provoking and informative exploration of a topic that is all too often reduced to sound bites and political slogans. By blending stunning footage of Arizona's natural beauty with insightful interviews and analysis, the episode offers a nuanced and compassionate perspective on this controversial topic.