2021 Youth Environmentalist of the Year: Skyler Meinholz

SYRCL is happy to announce Skyler Meinholz, a Nevada Union High School Senior, as the 2021 recipient of the Environmentalist of the Year Scholarship. This scholarship, administered by SYRCL, is offered annually to graduating high school seniors who have demonstrated a commitment to the environment. 

An outdoor enthusiast and activist, Skyler, has volunteered with SYRCL over the years during the Wild and Scenic Film Festival, which helps to educate audiences and inspire action. She has also helped to protect the Yuba during SYRCL’s annual Cleanups by removing trash from its banks. Caring for the Yuba has long been a part of Skyler’s life, as she grew up on and around the river and holds the Yuba close to her heart. 

In her free time, you can find Skyler outside doing one of the many activities she loves, whether it is whitewater kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, skiing, or reading on the warm rocks along the Yuba.

“To be recognized as the environmentalist of the year by you guys is such an honor,” Skyler stated about being selected for the scholarship. “I am so happy my love for the Yuba is helping me in my future to save other wild places just like it.” 

Skyler will be attending Cal Poly this fall to pursue a biology degree with a minor in global politics. She is hopeful this pathway will help her “leave this planet better than I found it. I want to help save the environment with whatever I do.”

We cannot wait to see what Skyler’s future holds for her, and we hope that she will someday bring her skills back to Mama Yuba.

To date, twenty scholarships have been awarded to outstanding youth in our community. The recipients are distinguished by their service, academic achievements, and extra-curricular talents. Funds for the scholarship are raised by the annual Brains of Nevada County Quiz Night, hosted by SYRCL and produced by staff and dozens of volunteers.