How did you get involved with Friends of the Amargosa Basin?
I first got involved with Friends of the Amargosa Basin through my friend Cameron Mayer, whom I met during grad school. When Cameron reached out about an opportunity to participate in habitat restoration with FAB, I eagerly took him up on the offer. It was a chance to connect with like-minded individuals while making a tangible impact on the community.
What motivates you to volunteer?
What motivates me most is seeing the direct impact that stewardship can have on our ecosystems. Volunteering alongside people who are equally passionate about conservation allows us to combine our efforts and create lasting change. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work we’re doing is making a difference, both for the environment and the communities that rely on it.
What’s your favorite part about volunteering here?
My favorite part about volunteering with FAB is the opportunity to immerse myself in the desert. The desert is a magical place, and spending time in Shoshone gives me a chance to reset and reflect on what truly matters. It’s a grounding experience that renews my appreciation for the natural world.
Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had while volunteering?
One of my most memorable experiences was sharing laughs with fellow volunteers while being knee-deep in stream water, removing cattails. The shared sense of purpose made even the most challenging tasks enjoyable, and it’s those moments of connection that stay with you long after the work is done.
What do you do outside of volunteering?
Outside of volunteering, I run The Atlas Botanica, a passion project that grew out of my time in grad school. I focus on educating others about foraging for wild edibles and gardening through hands-on workshops and nature walks. My mission is to connecting people through nature, and I believe that one of the best ways to deepen our appreciation of our shared ecosystems is through our stomachs. I hope to inspire others to become stewards of the environment as well.