Wild Keeper Spotlight: Elizabeth Astrella

Meet third term Wild Keeper, Elizabeth! Elizabeth is based in Virginia but grew up in the beautiful Washington state area where she shares, "my parents often took my siblings and I out camping or hiking in the state and national parks. As an adult, I’ve found that spending time outdoors grounds me and helps me be my best self. It sounds like a cliche but I really am happiest when outdoors." She shares that her favorite ways to experience the outdoors is through hiking and camping!

Learn more about Elizabeth below

Keep Nature Wild: If you had to choose between mountains, forest or desert, what would you choose?

Elizabeth: Mountains!

KNW: What is your favorite adventure snack?

E: Trail mix, especially when it has dark chocolate in it

KNW: What is an experience that has shaped your relationship with nature/ the outdoors?

E: My family moves often for work, and it can be very stressful, but every time we move I make it a point to get outdoors and explore whatever new state we’re in. Finding and exploring the forests, mountains and waterways of a new place helps make it feel like home, even if we’re thousands of miles away from my extended family and friends.

KNW: What is one thing you'd love to bring more awareness to in the outdoor space?

E: That there is space for everyone outdoors. You don’t need to look or dress a certain way, have fancy equipment, a travel budget, or even have had a childhood spend outdoors. If you want to spend time outdoors, do it!

KNW: What is your favorite thing about being a Wild Keeper?

E: Meeting an awesome community of like-minded people, and encouraging others to get outdoors, enjoy nature and take care of it!

KNW: What has picking up trash outdoors done for you? 

E: How easy it is for trash to get outdoors in public spaces (even when you try to dispose of it properly) and now I actively try to create less waste in my home and life

KNW: Roughly how many pounds do you think you've picked up since you became a Wild Keeper?

E: Over 100 pounds

KNW: What goals do you have for this year? (or beyond?)

E: Continuing to get outdoors with my family, cleaning up litter and finding new ways to help take care of our planet, and encouraging others to do the same!