Max Chesnes is the environment reporter for Treasure Coast Newspapers and the USA Today network, covering Lake Okeechobee, the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon in Florida. Previously he was TCPalm’s health and welfare reporter. He studied journalism and sustainability at the University of Florida, graduating in May 2019. Chesnes is a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists and recipient of an SEJ national reporting award, the Poole Endowment for Environmental Writing, and first place recognition from the Florida Society of News Editors in 2021 and the Green Eyeshade Awards.