Chris Balch was born in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in Redding, Connecticut, at a time when the backyard was bordered not by other homes, but by unexplored woodland. For forty years Chris taught science and directed wilderness education programs in northeastern public and private high schools. Still a naturalist, Chris has an enduring love of wilderness that led to decades of experiences in the outdoors. Chris is also a sailor and boatbuilder. Chris lives in southern New Hampshire.