Melissa Gaskill

Contributing Writer
Melissa Gaskill on a Rio Grande river trip. - H. Gaskill
Melissa Gaskill on a Rio Grande river trip. - H. Gaskill

An independent journalist for 16 years, Melissa Gaskill holds degrees in biology and journalism and writes about travel, nature, outdoor adventure, science, and the environment for a variety of regional and national magazines. She travels extensively in her native state of Texas and throughout the Southwest, the Caribbean, and Mexico (and once explored the entire Baja peninsula by car with her three children). An avid outdoors person, she is an experienced camper, hiker, kayaker, and scuba diver. She is the author of Best Hikes with Dogs: Texas Hill Country and Gulf Coast (Mountaineers Books), and Lacrosse: A Guide for Parents and Players (Mansion Grovehouse).

Latest Articles

Controlling Fire Ants: Remedies That Work
Non-native fire ants injure livestock and wildlife, ruin lawns, displace native insects, damage mowing equipment, cause allergic reactions, and more.
Dec 4, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
What Every College Freshman Needs to Know
In the frenzy of SATs, college visits, applications, and financial issues, many parents forget that youngsters leaving for college need basic skills.
Aug 22, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
South Texas Dive Week
The fourth annual South Padre Island Dive Week, September 17-26, 2010 includes contests, prizes, and specials on scuba diving opportunities.
May 3, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
Dive Around Texas Event
Texas offers more than 30 places to scuba dive, from rivers to the Gulf of Mexico. Dive Around Texas offers prizes for diving 12 times in four different sites.
Apr 6, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
The Game of Lacrosse
Lacrosse is relatively new in much of the world. Known as the fastest game on two feet, this exciting field game is also America's fastest growing team sport.
Mar 30, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
Preparing Kids for Game Day
For young athletes, game day can be stressful. Parents can help make it fun and positive with proper preparation and the right kind of support.
Mar 29, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
Supporting Your Child in Sports
Most parents are thrilled when a child wants to play a sport, and cheerfully provide support. It's important, though, that parents keep their eye on the right goals.
Mar 23, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
Selecting the Right Coach for Young Children
Coaches can be a big influence on youngsters, for good or bad. It's a parent's job to evaluate potential coaches for his children, and to support positive coaching.
Mar 23, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
Outdoor Activities in Fredericksburg, Texas
This bustling tourist town, about an hour from Austin and San Antonio, offers an abundance of outdoor activities, as well as all the typical comforts.
Mar 13, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill
A Balanced Approach to Youth Sports
Youth sports programs like Little League and Pop Warner Football were founded so every kid could play and have fun. Today's leagues seem to have lost those principles.
Mar 10, 2010 - Melissa Gaskill