By JR Johnson

My name is JR Johnson and I am a nature-loving free spirit who loves to camp, hike and backpack our National Forests and State Parks in Texas and other parts of the United States. I also travel to Mexico and Central America, often to study Mayan ruins which has been a passion of mine for more than 47 years.

The first time I felt a strong affinity for nature was my first year in college when I was able to attend a 3 month long Archaeology Field Trip to the remote interiors of Mexico. Hiking in the jungles and seeing ruins thousands of years old made me so appreciative that they have been preserved for us and future generations.

One of my first and best experiences with the Houston Sierra Club has been my trips to the Big Thicket to plant the Long Leaf Pines with Brandt Mannchen. He introduced us to all the magnificent trees in the forest, showed us the diversity of this biological preserve, and explained to us the importance of planting new seedlings. I was proud to be a part of this experience!

I enjoy the monthly Houston Sierra Club meetings with like-minded Earth-connected people.They are positive, informative and inspirational. The field trips, volunteer opportunities, social events, and fundraisers are opportunities for all to get involved.

The environmental message I would pass on to the youth is that one person can make a difference. Join a local Sierra Club group, get involved, connect with others, spread the word, educate yourselves, fight the battles...our world depends on it!