State: Texas
Years on RSYC: 2025-2026
Nathan is a steadfast conservationist and plant enthusiast who engages with his community to make lasting impacts.
Through his involvement with the “Prairie Restoration Crew,” Nate works to preserve the unique diversity of the Texas grasslands.
Nate partners with other high school students and community members in the Dallas area to propagate, rescue, cultivate, and plant native plants. So far, they have planted over 1,000 species in various locations, including more than 50 endangered species. Nate notes that collaborative restoration efforts are crucial due to the fact that 99% of the original natural land cover in Texas has been lost to urbanization. Recently, Nate has been investigating the intersection of air pollution and environmental justice.
For fun, Nate likes creative writing, running, swimming, and cycling. He was recently selected as an American Climate Leadership Award Finalist, which included an award of $5,000 towards his prairie restoration work.
Nate offers advice on how to maintain hope, saying: “Take time to read about the positive things happening in the world!”
