Mark Brown
Conservation Educator
Rooted Renewal
Cedar Falls, Iowa, United States
About Mark Brown
Mark Brown is a conservation educator and naturalist based in Cedar Falls, Iowa. He is the founder of Rooted Renewal, a community organization focused on environmental education and faith-based conservation across the Cedar Valley region, including Waverly and Waterloo. With over 30 years of experience in outdoor education, Brown is known for his work in tree and plant identification, mushroom foraging, sustainable woodworking, and local ecology.
Brown began his career leading workshops and nature walks in northeast Iowa. His early efforts focused on youth mentorship, hands-on skills, and introducing basic wilderness knowledge to students and families. Over time, his work expanded to include church groups, public schools, and local governments. He is often invited to speak on topics such as native species, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship.
Brown has visited more than 30 national parks in the United States and incorporates these experiences into his local teaching. His “Sunday in the Woods” video series connects ecology and scripture through short outdoor reflections. He also runs tree-planting events, trail cleanups, and woodworking demonstrations using reclaimed materials.
In recent years, Brown has helped create curriculum kits for Iowa schools and churches. He is writing a book titled From Mountains to Meadows, which explores how travel to national parks can inspire local conservation action. He is also developing a nonprofit focused on youth programs, community gardens, and environmental literacy.
Brown’s approach blends nature education, local engagement, and faith-based values, aimed at building long-term environmental responsibility in Iowa communities.
Areas of Focus
Career Background
Cedar Valley Nature Programs
Media
Press
Faith, Forests, and Future Generations: Mark Brown Inspires Cedar Valley ...
Read the full article ›From Iowa Woods to National Parks: Mark Brown Shares His Journey as a Naturalist and Storyteller
Read the full article ›Exploring Waterloo, Iowa Naturally: Mark Brown and His Mission to Reconnect Communities With The Outdoors
Read the full article ›Faith, Forests, and Future Generations: Mark Brown Inspires Cedar Valley Youth Through Nature
Read the full article ›Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mark Brown do?
Mark Brown is a conservation educator and naturalist who founded Rooted Renewal, a community organization focused on environmental education and faith-based conservation in Iowa's Cedar Valley region.
What is Mark Brown known for?
With over 30 years of experience in outdoor education, Brown is known for his work in tree and plant identification, mushroom foraging, sustainable woodworking, and local ecology, as well as his "Sunday in the Woods" video series connecting ecology and scripture.
Where is Mark Brown based?
Mark Brown is based in Cedar Falls, Iowa, United States.
Who does Mark Brown work for?
Mark Brown is the founder of Rooted Renewal and has also worked as a Conservation Educator at Cedar Valley Nature Programs.
Last updated February 20, 2026