THS student Archer Grier received the award Thursday from Environmental Protection Agency Region 7 Administrator Jim Macy for his 2024 sustainable fish-breeding project at Cedar Lake in Olathe.

The award ceremony took place the regional office in Lenexa. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Fisheries Biologist Zach Ramsay, who sponsored the winning project, joined the presentation.

“Archer’s successful project showed dedication to improving his local environment through science, innovation, and teamwork — and that’s an accomplishment worth celebrating,” Macy said. “President’s Environmental Youth Award winners are role models and problem solvers that lead the way for youth stewardship of our land. I am proud to present this national award to Archer. Congratulations on a job well done!”

Contributed photo

A love of bass fishing inspired Archer to seek out a sustainable fisheries project, per a release from the EPA. After learning of a fish kill at Cedar Lake, he teamed up with biologists at KDWP and local scouts to address the issue. Archer designed, constructed, and deployed a sustainable fish-breeding cube made from repurposed PVC pipe and drainage tubing, mobilizing others to join in the project. His efforts revitalized the lake’s aquatic ecosystem and sparked community interest in angling.

Contributed photo

Within hours of deployment, the cube attracted fish. Archer’s project combined scientific research, environmental engineering and youth engagement to address habitat loss in local fisheries. He hosted a hands-on “Construction Campout,” which mobilized peers to build additional habitat cubes and learn about sustainable fishing practices. In addition to revitalizing the aquatic ecosystem, his efforts helped boost local angling-related businesses. The project aligns with Kansas Parks and Wildlife Service goals and demonstrates how creative youth-led solutions can strengthen environmental health and economic vitality.

U.S. EPA photo

The project’s environmental focus areas were recycling, sustainability, water infrastructure and water quality and/or litter within waterways.

Grier was one of nine youths in the grades 6-12 division across the nation to receive the award.