NRM Team
Cody George
Ecological horticulturist & NRM Manager
Cody leads our team of professionals. He is a seasoned and respected horticulturalists in the region with 20 years of extensive experience in public garden management. Previously, Cody served as a grounds manager for the Thaden School and Crystal Bridges, where he was manager of horticulture and grounds operations for eight years. Cody obtained a bachelor's degree in Horticulture & Landscape Management from the University of Arkansas in 2006 and has continued his education in his field by earning the accreditation of an Organic Land Care Professional by the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) of Connecticut.
Taylor Enlow
Nursery manager
Taylor Enlow is a born and raised Arkansan from a small town in Northwest Arkansas but has lived in Fayetteville for the past decade. Growing up in an ecologically rich area, among other things, led her to get a degree in Biology with minors in both Wildlife Habitats and Sustainability.
Before coming to work at NRM, Taylor worked for a non-profit in Fayetteville doing river and riparian restoration. Caring for the environment has always been and remains a top priority for her, which was a major influence on her decision to accept her position as the Nursery Manager at NRM. She also liked the idea of working with a group of people who not only love native plants as much as she does but also have lots of knowledge to share.
Joanna Gonzalez
Ecological Gardener
Meet Joanna, a devoted 28-year-old mother and nature enthusiast based in Northwest Arkansas for over 25 years. She graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in Horticulture, deepening her knowledge and passion for plants and ecosystems. Joanna's lifelong love for the region's natural beauty and rich ecology led her to become an Arkansas Master Naturalist, where she actively promotes environmental stewardship and conservation efforts. Her expertise in horticulture inspires her to cultivate gardens that harmonize with local ecosystems, employing sustainable practices as an ecological gardener to create thriving habitats for native species.
Beyond her green thumb and academic achievements, Joanna channels her energy into community service and volunteering, believing in the power of grassroots efforts to foster a sustainable future. Whether organizing local clean-up initiatives or educating youth about native flora and fauna, she strives to instill a sense of environmental responsibility in the next generation. Joanna finds joy in every opportunity to connect with nature, whether hiking the trails of the Ozarks with her family or tending to her garden at home.
Brian Batchelor
head gardener
Brian and Cody had worked together at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art for a number of years and stayed in contact after we both left. This connection eventually led him to become NRM’s Head Gardener! He spent over 20 years working as an Irrigation Technician in various places around the state. During this time he worked, honing his skills in ecological gardening practices, proper equipment maintenance, and becoming familiar with all aspects of the lawn care business.
William Schmidt
Ecological Gardener
William Schmidt, a seasoned horticulturalist with over 20 years of dedicated experience, embodies a deep love for nature that permeates every aspect of his life. At 41 years old, William's journey into the world of plants began early, fueled by a childhood fascination with the natural world around him. His career in horticulture has been marked by a relentless passion for nurturing plant life and creating vibrant, sustainable landscapes.
William finds solace and joy in the great outdoors. He is an avid fisherman, finding peace and connection in serene lakes and rivers. His adventurous spirit drives him to explore new places, seeking out hidden trails and untouched wilderness areas whenever possible. He continues to be inspired by the beauty of nature and remains dedicated to sharing his expertise and enthusiasm with others.