Spreading the Science: Cody Stropki Connects Landscapes and Learners

For over 15 years, Cody Stropki, a service line director at SWCA and an expert in watershed hydrology and fire ecology, has been part of a team quietly making a lasting impact in the rural community of Mountainair, New Mexico. Through a longstanding partnership with the Claunch-Pinto Soil and Water Conservation District, Cody Stropki has led efforts in watershed monitoring, forest health, and NEPA planning. But Cody’s impact extends beyond project work.

While leading a forest health NEPA project with Claunch-Pinto, Cody had the opportunity to become a dedicated mentor, inspiring local middle school and high school students to explore careers in conservation and develop a deeper connection to their local landscapes.

Claunch-Pinto has historically provided support to the Mountainair Future Farmers of America (FFA) team. District Manager Dierdre Tarr had the idea of using SWCA’s existing projects to develop an even stronger working relationship. Cody became involved in this by helping the FFA students in forest health surveys, watershed monitoring, and even statewide forestry competitions.

“These hands-on experiences provide more than just technical knowledge.”, Stropki noted, “They help students build confidence, curiosity, and leadership skills.”

With a PhD in watershed hydrology and deep experience in fire ecology, Cody’s mentorship goes beyond the field. He has helped students analyze data, build presentations, and grow as scientific thinkers. He’s even created fun custom quizzes to keep students engaged when he can’t be there in person.

“I have always enjoyed working with youth, and I’m a forever optimist,” he said. “It helps me stay curious. I always learn something working with these kids.”

Under the Claunch-Pinto teams’ guidance, the Mountainair High School FFA team has won the state championship twice, a testament to both his mentorship and the students’ hard work.

One student, who he began working with in 8th grade, recently completed their high school senior project using years of watershed data they collected together.

“Consultants can teach, too,” Cody says. “You just have to be curious and willing to ask where you can help.”

Cody encourages others who want to explore similar opportunities to connect with local STEM programs, FFA chapters, or even federal and nonprofit partners.

“If you’re having fun, you’re learning,” Cody said. “And if we want a future generation that values conservation, we have to show them what it looks like—and why it matters.”

Cody’s dedication to spreading the science through his work embodies SWCA’s core values of Always Learning and Gives Back, demonstrating that as consultants, we can teach, inspire, and make a lasting difference in our communities.