When we learn to read the land, we begin seeing the possibilities all around us. I help land stewards see more than just green. Through ecological literacy, we can transform landscapes, build relationships with the natural systems around us, and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

I grew up in central Ohio on a 1970's horse ranch tied to the historical Darby Dan Racetrack.The racehorses were long gone by the time I was born. What remained were acres of overgrown pasture.I’ve always had a passion for the outdoors, I didn’t begin to truly read the landscape until I explored my interest in foraging for wild edible plants and mushrooms more deeply. It was through creating trails by hand alongside my partner that my understanding of the land expanded from what I could get out of it to what I could give back.As my partner and I created our trails throughout acres of fields, forests and wetlands, we did so intentionally, without pulling anything we couldn't confidently identify.This practice went on for many years, sharpening my understanding of local wildlife communities and deepening my appreciation for the interconnectedness of ecosystems.Over a decade later, we still practice wild-tending the now regenerating landscape through encouraging the existing native species, as well as adding hundreds of plants suitable to the ecoregion.What started on old family land has extended into the community and beyond. Through ongoing field observation, citizen science, collaborations with researchers, and community programming, I’ve helped others begin to recognize ecological patterns within their own landscapes.

When we are the stewards of a landscape, caring for it means more than simply erecting a fence around it. In fact, the key to developing a truly beneficial relationship with the landscape is to take part in natural systems.Identifying a species not just by name or use, but by its connections to its surroundings, gives us the nuances needed to step forward with confidence on our journey towards ecological literacy.By being deliberate with studying the landscape, unique opportunities may emerge for conservation and growth.My role is not to control the landscape, but to interpret which steps best align with the existing natural systems in place. For some, this may look like developing a food forest. For others, this could be carefully curating resources to guide guests throughout their land.