Who knew hours spent building makeshift dams out of sticks and stones at Adobe Creek as a toddler would eventually lead to real-life constructions of beaver dam analogs throughout California? After joining the USDA Natural Resources Conservation in 2023 as an Earth Team volunteer, Kiefer witnessed the power of ecological engineering as a sustainable scientific-based solution for habitat restoration. He subsequently founded Ecoengineering in Action to increase outreach and impact. A State Science Olympiad Petrology and Mineralogy medalist and a 2x U.S. Earth Science Olympiad National Finalist, he is eager to share his love of geosciences with others. Furthermore, recognizing the disproportionate vulnerabilities of Native American tribes to wildfires and drought as well as the importance of Indigenous co-stewardship of our land, Kiefer initiated partnership programs with Tribal Conservation Corps to support indigenous stewardship and native youth workforce development. When not covered in dust rockhounding, Kiefer can be found foraging for mushrooms in the forests and perusing seismology updates on the USGS website.
Coming from a family with five members affected by lung cancer who were all non-smokers, Amelia is empowered to spread awareness of the rising cancer epidemic and make environmental decontamination and rehabilitation a priority. She is pushing for healthy air, water, and land quality for all. Preventing wildfires, decreasing river erosion, and increasing river water filtration are among the benefits of beaver dam analog construction and are therefore of vital importance to her. In addition, she is also interested in the potential of mushroom cultivation for bioremediation. As a rising sophomore, she enjoys peer-tutoring, crocheting, and playing competitive volleyball in her spare time.
With a passion for environmental sustainability, Arissa seeks to find new ways to help society transition toward a more resilient future. As a student in the high school class of 2027, she also spends her time contributing to the battle against wildfires with a team of students crafting an autonomous wildfire suppression system. After realizing the rapid change within our ecosystems, Arissa became even more committed to make a change. She aspires to lead the younger generation in tackling eco-challenges through action, innovation, and advocacy. Arissa believes that empowering the youth to create scalable solutions for a healthier planet is key to lasting impact, and she strives to aid in expanding awareness and inspire collective action. She is also passionate about applying business knowledge to environmental initiatives. Moreover, she loves to fill her free time with baking, cooking, and fencing.
Ever since she was little, Anna has loved hiking through national parks and exploring the great outdoors. Whether it’s navigating the cables of Half Dome or wading through the Narrows in Zion, she simply loves being outside. Her time in nature has fostered a deep appreciation for the environment and the desire to develop solutions to climate change. In pursuit of this interest, Anna has explored both policy and research, canvassing in support of the OSA Parcel Tax and researching hydrogen fuel. If she’s not in the lab or outdoors, she’s probably bouldering, skateboarding, or on a random side quest with friends!
Ever since he was young, Braydon has gained a strong appreciation for the great outdoors. A rising junior, he still vividly recalls fond memories of searching for rocks in riverbeds and taking pictures of wildlife, leading him to champion the preservation of these landscapes for future generations to enjoy. Drawing from his prior experience as a member of several different non-profits, he knows some of the ins-and-outs of how to run an organization, and he is overjoyed to work for a cause that he has a true passion for. Outside of being an Eco-Engineer, Braydon loves to relax by reading plays, running cross country, and listening to music.
Whether it’s hiking through redwood forests, stargazing with her family, or simply sitting under a tree with a good book, Amy has always found a deep sense of peace and wonder in the natural world. A rising junior, she loves spending time outdoors, where she feels most inspired and alive. Amy’s love for nature fuels her passion to protect it, and she’s eager to see how hands-on action can lead to real change. When she’s not exploring outdoors, she enjoys playing violin and piano, listening to music, and reading sci-fi novels.
Ethan has had a keen interest in animals and the unique roles they play in the ecosystem for as long as he can remember. Having been raised by a nature-loving plant parent, Ethan’s childhood days were filled with trips to the zoos, aquariums, and beaches, which have led to a fascination with aquatic life and the desire to help and maintain healthy ecosystems. With experience in creek cleanups, building beaver dams, and student leadership, he is eager to share his passion with others and hopes increased awareness and involvement in rehabilitating aquatic ecosystems can make a lasting impact. Beyond environmental interests, Ethan is involved in playing and coaching volleyball, and enjoys operating and tinkering with model trains.
Questions, suggestions or comments? Please email us using the link below or complete the form to the right. We look forward to hearing from you!
