CONSERVATION LEADERS
As a native Texan, Austin’s love for the outdoors began at an early age through playing in creeks, fishing, and catching turtles, experiences that helped foster his passion for conservation. He earned a BS in Wildlife Biology from Texas State University and went on to work as a game ranch manager, where he collaborated with nonprofit organizations and worked with private landowners to support habitat restoration. He has also held multiple field technician positions, gaining experience in amphibian and reptile research and surveys, including participation in a Texas Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum) reintroduction project in Mason, Texas. He later earned an MS in Biological Sciences from East Texas A&M University and holds a Wildlife Biologist Certification from The Wildlife Society. Currently, Austin’s primary focus is within the Post Oak Savannah ecoregion, where he works to restore habitat and support recovery efforts for the Endangered Houston toad (Anaxyrus houstonensis).