Our Tribe’s Fortune 500 Hours – Jean Higgins, Class of 2023

What inspired you to become a Master Naturalist?

My deep love for nature has always been a guiding force in my life, motivating me to pursue a path as a Texas Master Naturalist. From a young age, I was the kid with pockets full of leaves, rocks, and other natural treasures, eager to study and understand the world around me. That curiosity has never waned. Today, I’m passionate about hiking, kayaking, birding, nature photography, gardening, and fossil hunting—activities that keep me connected to the environment.

But it’s more than just a personal interest; it’s a responsibility I feel toward the world around me. I strive to live as sustainably as possible, always looking for ways to reduce my impact and protect the natural spaces I cherish. I believe that preserving these areas is crucial, not just for the health of the environment, but for our own well-being. Nature has a profound way of healing and grounding us, and I want future generations to have the same opportunities to experience that connection.

I also believe that it’s especially important for children to have access to great natural spaces where they can form their own connections with nature. In today’s world, where many kids are increasingly disconnected from the outdoors, it’s vital that they have places to explore, learn, and simply be immersed in the beauty of the natural world. These experiences can foster a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for the environment that stays with them for a lifetime. By ensuring that children have these spaces to discover, we’re not only nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards, but also giving them the tools for better physical and emotional health. Nature has so much to offer, and every child deserves the opportunity to experience it firsthand.

On what type of projects do you typically spend your service hours, or are they varied?

The City of Plano has partnered with the Blackland Prairie Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists, and I and with the help of Francis Ngoh have had the privilege of leading these habitat restoration projects. Through this partnership, we are working to restore and protect over 1,600 acres of city-owned parkland, with more than 1,000 acres currently in active restoration. Our primary focus has been removing invasive species, which threaten the health of native ecosystems, and replacing them with native plants that are better suited to the local environment. By restoring these natural habitats, we are helping to improve biodiversity, support pollinators, and enhance the overall ecological balance of the parks.

In addition to the work in Plano, I am also involved in similar projects in the cities of Frisco and McKinney, where we are removing invasive species and reintroducing native plants in local parks. These efforts are vital for creating resilient ecosystems that can thrive for generations to come. Working in these areas has been deeply rewarding, and I am proud to be part of a movement that is helping to restore the beauty and ecological health of our local parks.

When you were taking the Master Naturalist classes, do you have a favorite lesson that has stuck with you?

The classes were all fantastic, and I learned so much. One of the highlights for me was learning how to use iNaturalist. It’s an amazing tool that has taught me to slow down and truly observe the world around me. Through iNaturalist, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the plants and insects living in our parks, and it’s been eye-opening to discover the rich diversity of life in these natural spaces.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background, and perhaps what you like to do in your spare time?

After 26 years in the healthcare industry, I retired and now devote my time to volunteering as a Texas Master Naturalist and with the North Texas Food Bank. When I’m not giving back to my community, I’m out exploring the great outdoors—hiking, kayaking, birding, nature photography, gardening, and fossil hunting. I also cherish time with my new granddaughter, who’s already a little adventurer! I’m passionate about spending as much time in nature as possible, always seeking new ways to connect with the world around me.

Is there one thing that you’d like to tell others who are thinking of becoming a Master Naturalist or perhaps current members who might need a little bit of inspiration?

Becoming a Texas Master Naturalist is not just about learning facts—it’s about discovering a deeper connection to the natural world around us. As a Master Naturalist, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to understand, appreciate, and protect the diverse ecosystems of Texas. Whether you’re fascinated by birds, plants, insects, or geology, the training and hands-on field experience will open your eyes to the incredible biodiversity of our state.
But the impact of becoming a Master Naturalist goes far beyond personal enrichment. As a certified volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to give back to your community by leading or working projects that help restore habitats, educate others, and conserve the natural spaces we all depend on. You’ll be part of a passionate network of individuals who share your love for the outdoors and the environment. Together, we work to ensure that Texas’ natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
If you love nature, want to make a tangible difference, and enjoy the sense of wonder that comes from learning something new every day, becoming a Texas Master Naturalist might be one of the most rewarding adventures you can embark on. It’s more than just a title—it’s a chance to become an advocate for nature, a steward of the land, and a guide for others to experience the beauty and importance of the natural world.