High school students have a lot on their plates, homework, extracurriculars, and, for seniors, the added stress of college applications. But for Conrad Kolk, the environment is even more significant in his mind.
He’s not just passionate about it; he’s doing something about it. As the founder of KMLOEC, an environmental club focused on protecting South Florida’s ecosystems, Kolk is leading the charge in fighting pollution, restoring habitats, and getting students involved in conservation efforts.
One of KMLOEC’s largest initiatives, the Native Pathways Project, is a collaboration with the Village of Key Biscayneand Brightview Landscaping. The project aims to restore biodiversity by reintroducing native plant species into underutilized green spaces, creating a sustainable ecosystem for local wildlife.
“It’s focused on reinvigorating biodiversity and native plants within the village and on underutilized green space around the village itself,” Kolk explained.
But their efforts extend beyond Key Biscayne. KMLOEC has also partnered with Miami Waterkeeper and the City of Miami Parks Department to lead conservation efforts across South Florida, from coastal cleanups to pollution reduction projects.
“One key takeaway about the environment is how broad it is,” Kolk said.
“I don’t think people realize how much it influences our lives, how we live, how we go about our day. If it keeps going the way it is now, it’s going to start negatively impacting people in ways they might not expect.”
KMLOEC’s mission gained significant momentum when the organization secured a partnership with Key Biscayne officials.
“It was the first time we engaged one-on-one with local officials to do something large-scale,” Kolk said. “That was really an ‘oh wow’ moment for us.”
The milestone proved that student-led environmental initiatives could have a real impact, but maintaining engagement remains a challenge.
“It’s been difficult to establish a presence both at La Salle and also at other schools as we expand to MAST Academy and Ransom Everglades High School,” Kolk admitted.
“At first, just getting people to understand what we do was a challenge. And now that we have a strong member base, keeping them engaged and coming back regularly is something we’re constantly working on.”
One of KMLOEC’s biggest strengths is its ability to connect with students through social media.
“Keeping people engaged and motivated has really come in the form of both our Instagram presence and just going up to people directly,” Kolk said. “You need confidence when interacting with others, and I feel like both myself and the executive board have done a great job at channeling that energy and getting people interested in the environment.”
Joining KMLOEC is simple and accessible.
“You just need to go to our website or Instagram, and you’ll be able to join our group chat,” Kolk said.
“You can also follow along with any recent events we have posted and earn service hours by participating. Once a year, we also open applications for board positions, we just finished our first round of admissions, and we’re excited for our new board to lead us into the 2025-2026 year.”
A typical KMLOEC event isn’t about just showing up, it’s about taking meaningful action.
“A typical volunteer experience at KMLOEC consists of a beach cleanup or habitat restoration project,” Kolk said.
“We love getting people outdoors and giving them the opportunity to pick up trash, plant native plants, and see firsthand the impact they’re making.”
But making these initiatives happen requires perseverance. “When working with local governments and organizations, the biggest challenge is just establishing that first connection,” Kolk said.
“It takes a lot of persistence, calling, emailing, and following up. At first, people ignore you, but eventually, you form long-lasting relationships that help drive real change.”
Despite these challenges, Kolk envisions a bright future for KMLOEC.
“In five to ten years, I hope to see KMLOEC continue at La Salle while expanding to new schools and college campuses nationwide,” he said.
“I think it’s a really interesting possibility.”
For now, KMLOEC remains focused on its core mission: making real, lasting environmental change.
With KMLOEC’s growing impact, one message is clear: young people can create meaningful change when they take action. And if Kolk’s journey so far is any indication, this is just the beginning.
To learn more about, become a member of, and more visit https://www.kmloec.org. Members receive access to events that are happening as well as service hours.
