Smithsonian Journeys Experts

From an early age, Matt has been fascinated with the natural world. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and living in the Bay Area for much of his childhood, he made a life-changing decision to attend high school in the Four Corners region of the American Southwest. The region’s distinctive geology, climate, flora, and fauna further stimulated his interest in studying the natural sciences. He has remained in the region for nearly four decades and resides in Prescott, Arizona.

After obtaining a degree in natural history from Prescott College, Matt worked as a field biologist and ecological-rangeland consultant for numerous federal agencies and private entities. A big proponent of land conservation, Matt also works for a land trust, providing expertise in conservation easements and other land protection tools.

In conjunction with his field biology work, Matt has worked as a river guide on the Colorado River and its tributaries and a mountain guide in Colorado. Over the years, Matt’s focus shifted from adventure to naturalist guiding, and he has led countless individuals throughout the Southwest and intermountain region, while imparting a unique perspective of the region’s natural environment and human cultures.

In his spare time, Matt enjoys mountain biking and hiking, often with camera gear in tow. You can check out his images at www.tierraimagery.com.