Nico Swartz has joined Elk Rock Garden as our new Lead Gardener.
With a bachelor’s degree in Conservation Ecology, and a lifelong passion for plants and the environment, Nico is deeply committed to preserving and enhancing the health and natural beauty of Elk Rock Garden. His professional experience spans native plant propagation, removal of invasive plants, habitat restoration and volunteer leadership, making him particularly well-suited to this challenging role. Having previously worked with the Walker Basin Conservancy and Friends of Trees, Nico is grounded in a philosophy of sustainability and preservation, and aims to foster resilience in Elk Rock Garden’s landscape while also engaging with the community through hands-on stewardship.