Conservation Board

Appointed: 01/01/20
Term expires: 12/31/24

Iowa City

 

Appointed: 01/01/21
Term expires: 12/31/25

North Liberty

Appointed: 01/01/18
Term expires: 12/31/22

Solon

Appointed: 01/01/17
Term expires: 12/31/26

Iowa City

Appointed: 01/01/19
Term expires: 12/31/23

Lone Tree

Conservation Staff

Larry's Bio

Before joining the team here in Johnson County I worked for the Jones, Dallas and Jasper County Conservation Boards and also worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Saylorville Lake. During those jobs I worked in a variety of positions including Executive Director, Naturalist, Park Ranger, Operations Supervisor and as a Conservation Worker. I attended Iowa State University and obtained a B.S. in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology in 1986.

During the past 36 years my experience has focused on landscape restoration, managing and developing recreation areas, nature interpretation and implementing management and development plans that improve water quality. I have also been actively involved in interpreting and preserving cultural resources. Several of our public areas are located at old village sites and along historic transportation routes and this cultural history is an important part of the conservation program.

If I cross paths with you in the wilds of Johnson County it will probably be on a river paddling or hiking the woods, prairies and wetlands of the public lands system. Other programs and organizations I am involved with include the State of Iowa - Water Trails Advisory Committee, the IDALS - Watershed Improvement Review Board and as a volunteer on the Board of Directors of Iowa Rivers Revival.

On behalf of the Conservation Board and staff I want to invite you to visit and enjoy the wonderful parks, preserves and trails in Johnson County. The Board and staff take great pride in providing and maintaining these areas for all to enjoy. If you have any questions about any of our programs or would like to make suggestions about how we can better provide these services please contact me any time. You will find our staff and Board willing to do everything possible to make your visit the best possible experience.

Brad's Bio

I’ve always enjoyed being a part of the great Johnson County Conservation Board. I currently serve as the Johnson County Conservation Program Manager. In this role I direct special projects and programs within the Conservation Department as directed by the Executive Director. I also supervise the Environmental Education Program within the department and assist with department communications / public relations and administrative duties.

Prior to this position I served as the Johnson County Naturalist from 2002-2014. I’ve also held positions with numerous county conservation boards including serving five years as the Naturalist for the Pocahontas County Conservation Department.

I am a native of rural New Hampton Iowa where I grew up on a farm in southern Howard County with my parents, George and Julie and brother Jeff. I retain a great love for northeast Iowa and its resources. I keep busy spending time with my family and enjoying the outdoors anyway I can.

I currently reside in Coralville with my wife Tammy, our four boys – Jessie, Ben, Jacob and Carter and our daughter Olivia. You will likely find me attending one of the kids sporting events or out buying groceries to keep the herd fed.

Wade's Bio

I am the Operations Superintendent for the Johnson County Conservation Board. I am currently in my 25th year of service with the JCCB. I spent 15 years as the mechanic. I performed repairs on all of the conservation boards equipment, built, and fabricated numerous projects and equipment. I assisted the former Superintendent with a lot of the bridges that we are known for here, along with electrical, plumbing, building construction and all aspects that make a park system function. I truly enjoy working here. Everyone gets along and we take care of each other. I feel good about the accomplishments and projects we have done knowing that people will enjoy them for many years to come.

I served in the United States Marine Corps for four year (1989-1993) and am a Desert Storm and Desert Shield Veteran. While serving in the Marine Corps I wrestled for the All Marine World Team and was trained as a diesel and turbine engine mechanic for the Abram tank.

I live in Lisbon with my wife Julie and daughter Emily. When I'm not working for the JCCB, I'm at home in my machine shop building custom motorcycles for hill climbing. My family has been hosting the Anamosa Motorcycle Hill climb since 1965. The hill climb is held the 1st Sunday in June and the 2nd Sunday in September.

Dave's Bio

Hi, I'm Dave Gustafson (aka Gus). I serve as the Assistant Operations Superintendent for the Conservation Board. I was made with pride on Minnesota's Mesabi Iron Range. I began working for the Conservation Board in March of 2004.

I live in rural Williamsburg with my wonderful wife Laura and precious son Dayne.

Some of my duties with the Conservation Board include: maintaining the Kent Park wells, and the repair and maintenance of electrical, plumbing, HVAC, Geo Thermal and sanitary sewer systems. I'm also responsible for variety of construction projects.

On my days off I enjoy repairing power equipment, as well as spending time with Laura, Dayne and all of our animals. I hope to see you out enjoying the outdoors in one of the Johnson County Conservation Board Areas.

Charles' Bio

The Midwest is where I developed my love of the outdoors, and like so many in this field, spending time in the outdoors led to this career, and now a passion to protect it. I am fortunate that my passion and career have become one.

I started my career in conservation on the north side of Boone, Iowa many years ago. After Boone my career took me to north central Iowa for over a decade, where I am pleased to have added my wife Jenann and son Bo to this adventure. The outdoors and conservation is something we love to do together. In late 2012, early 2013, I think I made my final career stop, and maybe I’m partial, but my favorite and ongoing here in Johnson County. It’s this stop on the journey we call life that you find me and my family today.

What I enjoy most about working for Johnson County Conservation is being part of a dedicated staff that is committed to providing the best facilities and natural resources for the people to take in and enjoy. Outside of our staff I love the opportunity to help people. I want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and natural opportunities. At the end of the day that’s why I do what I do. I hope to see you soon in the great outdoors!

Aaron's Bio

I’m originally from Vinton, Iowa. Growing up I spent my free time hunting, fishing, and exploring our state’s public land with family and friends. These activities and memories sparked my passion for conservation and led me to attend Kirkwood Community College, where I obtained my AAS degree in Parks and Natural Resources and later Upper Iowa University, where I received a Bachelor’s degree in conservation management with a minor in criminal justice. Before starting with Johnson County Conservation, I was a seasonal park attendant for Linn County Conservation for several years and a park ranger intern for Poweshiek County Conservation.

During my free time I enjoy hunting upland game and turkey, fishing, hiking, and birding. Throughout the course of the year I hope to see you out in your county’s parks and natural areas enjoying a favorite outdoor activity of your own.

Dave's Bio

I was first employed by the board as a seasonal employee in 1983. I became a full-time staff member in 1986 after graduating from Upper Iowa University with a double major in Conservation Management and Biology. I am a former resident of Solon, Iowa, and I grew up near Lake McBride State Park where I spent most of my time as a youth developing a strong fondness for nature and the outdoors.

My major job responsibilities are restoration and establishment of natural areas such as woodlands, savannas, wetlands, prairies and wildlife habitat plantings. I have been involved in many exciting projects for the Conservation Board over the years and have great passion for the work in this field. I would also like to thank the many friends and conservation supporters that I have met in the Johnson County community. Your continued assistance, encouragement and hard work is a vital aspect to the success of our program. I look forward to working with you . The future has never been brighter and the challenges never greater.

When not on duty for the Conservation Board you might find me camping, backpacking, trout fishing, studying raptorial birds or history. You may also find me pheasant hunting with my Brittany spaniel, my best friend.

Brad's Bio

I grew up in Dubuque Iowa where I graduated from Hempstead High School. After high school I joined the United States Navy and served from June 1995 to June 1999. I was trained as an Engineman and served on two separate ships in Auxiliary divisions.

After my discharge I worked at Sundown Mountain Ski Resort on chairlift and grounds maintenance. In 2001 I moved to Riverside Iowa to take a position with the City in Public Works. From there I went to the City of Cedar Rapids parks and Recreation Department then City of Iowa City Wastewater Treatment Plant moving up to the Senior Maintenance Worker position.

I still live in Riverside with my wife Misty and our three girls Anna, Katie and Emily.  I’m looking forward to this opportunity working with and for the Johnson County Conservation Board.

Josh's Bio

I was hired by the Johnson County Conservation Board in August 2020 as the mechanic for the department. As the mechanic I am responsible for keeping all the equipment maintained and running for the entire JCCB staff. This includes repairing and rebuilding everything from a weed eater to a backhoe, and anything in between. I also assist other staff members in other projects as needed.

I have four children; Lilly, Laney, Lincoln and Annie.  I like to spend my free time hunting, fishing and spending time with my family.

I hope you all enjoy the various parks and areas that the Johnson County Conservation Board has to offer. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work for the Johnson County Conservation Department.

Paul's Bio

I grew up on a farm in Northeast Iowa, where I learned to appreciate nature and enjoy the outdoors. The University of Iowa lured me to Iowa City, where I met my wife, Amy. Like so many others who found their way to the university, we never left town! We have been blessed with four amazing children, with whom we share our love of the land and outdoor activities. I feel very fortunate to be a part of the Johnson County Conservation Board staff and to have the opportunity to work with the many talented people at Kent Park. I look forward to doing my part to make sure that everyone who visits our county parks has a great experience.

Mike's Bio

I am originally from rural Buchanan county, where I grew up hunting, fishing, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. I went to college at Loras in Dubuque, where I majored in Biological Research and studied Black Terns in Wisconsin, Iowa, and the Dakotas for my thesis.

I started my Natural Resource career working as a Biological Technician for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service on the Mississippi River, followed by work with Iowa DNR, Pheasants Forever, and lastly Conservation Districts of Iowa before coming to work at Johnson County Conservation.

My duties at Johnson County Conservation include helping the team restore and reconstruct native prairies and wetlands, control invasive species, manage tree plantings and conduct timber stand improvement, assist with prescribed fire, and continue the development and restoration of many of our newly-acquired properties.

During my free time I enjoy hunting ducks and pheasants with my Chesapeake Autumn, fishing and camping on the Mississippi River with my wife Kristina, and during the fall you will likely find me in a tree stand. I hope to see you out enjoying one of our outstanding areas Johnson County has to offer.

Kevin's Bio

I grew up in southwest Illinois on a 40-acre farm near the Mississippi River, and had a passion for fishing channel catfish, hunting waterfowl, and being out in the woods. This is where my love for the outdoors and understanding of the importance of conservation started.

I later went on to college and graduated from Hawkeye Community College with an Associate’s Degree, majoring in Natural Resources Management. I then went on to earn my Bachelor of Science Degree from Upper Iowa University, majoring in Conservation Management.

I have worked in the conservation field for the last five years. I worked in Hardin County as a natural resource seasonal employee for two summers, in Linn County as a park attendant and in Johnson County as a seasonal natural resource team member. I have also worked part-time for other agencies helping with timber stand improvement and prairie reconstruction for private landowners, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and the Army Corps of Engineers.

I have been married for nine years to my wife Kelsey who has been nothing but supportive in this journey. We have three children, Cole, Cater, and Josie.

I am excited and looking forward to growing in this position with JCC and making positive changes in the world of conservation. I understand the benefits and lasting impacts that it will have, not only for my children, but for generations to come.

Blake's Bio

I grew up on an acreage in Parkersburg, Iowa. Upon graduating from the University of Northern Iowa in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Geography, I joined a wildland firefighting crew in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. I then spent the next two years working for various federal agencies including the National Park Service, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management as a hotshot firefighter. From here, I spent five years working for Hardin County Conservation working on the management of their prairies and woodlands.

My work at Johnson County focuses on the restoration of our county’s natural resources. Our projects often involve removing invasive plants like honeysuckle or autumn olive, as well as conducting prescribed burns through parks.

In my free time I enjoy backpacking, mountain biking, fishing, canoeing and hunting. I have a wonderful wife and two young boys and we can always be found enjoying the outdoors. Be sure to get out and enjoy some of the Johnson County parks for yourself.

Jeremy's Bio

I'm originally from the Boone Area. I grew up on a farm and spent much of my youth in Ledges State Park where I gained much of my interest in the outdoors. I have a AAS degree in Parks and Natural Resources from Kirkwood Community College, and graduated from Upper Iowa University with a double major - Conservation Management and Life Science.

My duties include employing various methods to control a variety of invasive species such as: autumn olive, brush honeysuckle, multi-flora, rose, garlic mustard, wild parsnip, sweet clover, and reed canary grass to name a few. My other responsibilities include, but are not limited to, prairie trail maintenance, timber stand improvement (TSI), seed harvest, assisting with prescribed burns, prairie restoration/reconstructions and wetland reconstructions.

During my free time I enjoy mushroom hunting, hiking, camping, canoeing, playing disc golf, and fishing of any kind. Fly fishing has taken up most of my time on the water in recent years.

I hope to see you at F.W. Kent Park or enjoying one of the other JCCB areas.

Dory's Bio

I am the Secretary/Office Manager for the Johnson County Conservation Board. I manage the office, provide administrative support and serve as the confidential Secretary to the Conservation Board.

I was born in Johnson County and enjoyed growing up in the rural areas of Janesville and Dysart, Iowa. Growing up I enjoyed riding horses and motorcycles. After living in the Quad Cities area for a short stint, I now live in North Liberty with my husband Keith. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and exploring the back roads of the country by motorcycle with my husband.

Brittny's Bio

I was born in Orange County California and spent my youth exploring the Mojave Desert and Sierra Nevada Mountains with my family. I moved to Iowa in middle school and spent my teenage years learning what Midwest Comfort is and making it a part of my own personal lifestyle and culture. When I am not going on an adventure with my son, Arlo, and partner, James – you can find me buried in a book, gardening, or recreating outdoors- especially in the winter! I am very family focused and enjoy the simple easy moments in life the best.

My early career was focused in luxury customer service, where I learned invaluable skills that I take with me everywhere in life. After realizing my passion lies with conservation I earned my AAS in Parks and Natural Resources at Kirkwood Community College and continued on to earn my BA in Sustainability and Leadership in Natural Resource Management through Oregon State University. I have been fortunate enough to be a part of amazing organizations like the Iowa Raptor Project, Iowa Women in Natural Resources, and participate in reviving Kirkwood’s Women in Conservation Club as well as act as President in the Kirkwood Conservation Club. I worked for three years as a Park Ranger with the US Army Corps of Engineers at Coralville Lake before finding my way to Johnson County Conservation as the Office Assistant where I am able to use both my knowledge of conservation and my customer service skills to accommodate visitors and peers alike.

Kristen's Bio

I grew up on a farm up in northern Iowa outside the small town of St. Ansgar. I was lucky to have the whole countryside to explore, and spent many hours along the banks of the Cedar River –way up at its headwaters. I studied Environmental Science at Iowa State University and graduated in 2013. I spent a lot of time studying watershed science in school, and the topic of wetland, stream, and river health continues to be one of my main passions today. Before starting here, I spent many years working as a backpacking guide/naturalist in New Mexico, working for a traveling restoration crew with The Nature Conservancy here in Iowa, in northern Idaho working for a watershed restoration organization, and up in northern Minnesota where I worked as a naturalist.

I’m excited to be in Iowa again, especially in beautiful Johnson County. As a naturalist, I get to help connect people to the world around them. I will be working to provide education for fieldtrips, public presentations, and special events. I can’t wait to explore the natural areas throughout this part of the state, and plan on spending many weekends camping, hiking, paddling, and biking. When I’m not outside, I’m typically painting, curled up with a good book, or dreaming about farming..

Frances' Bio

I was born in Eastern Iowa, and spent my childhood catching frogs, searching for snakes, and finding fossils in the limestone gravel that surfaced our road. I loved exploring outside and I knew I wanted to help protect those outdoor spaces I enjoyed.

After graduating from the University of Dubuque in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science, I spent a summer with Dubuque County Conservation as a naturalist intern and worked at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. I spent a summer in New Jersey tracking turtles with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before I decided to get a Master of Science in Biology at Fort Hays State University, in Hays, Kansas. After I graduated again in 2014, I came back to Iowa and worked for Dickinson County Conservation and Cerro Gordo County Conservation before spending the last three years with Des Moines County Conservation as their Naturalist.

Now I have the pleasure of sharing my love of nature and outdoor recreation with the people of Johnson County. If you schedule a field trip, attend a public program, or just come out to Kent Park to explore you might meet me. When I’m not working I enjoy horseback riding, working on my climbing skills, and foraging for wild edibles. I am happiest when adventuring with my husband Tyler, our two daughters, and our two dogs Peanut and Biscuit.

Marci's Bio

I grew up in Muscatine and Cedar counties here in Iowa. As a young child, the highlights of my summers were camping at the Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area and attending the county conservation’s annual nature camp. The third day of this camp involved wading into swampy waters and netting out little critters to examine afterward. These experiences with the county conservation are a large part of what created my interests and piqued my curiosity leading me to pursue a career in the natural sciences.

I went on to get a B.Sc. in in Zoology at the University of Wyoming where I made great connections with professors and graduate students who hired me to work for them on polar bears of the north slope of Alaska, forest fire ecology in Glacier National Park, and big horn sheep of Grand Teton National Park. These experiences furthered my curiously as well as my field hardiness.

In 2010, I accepted a M.Sc. position at University of Manitoba in Canada where I studied stress in beluga whales of the Canadian Arctic. I was fortunate once again, to have professors and fellow graduate students who accepted my company to join them on trips up to Hudson Bay to help them a research station just outside of Churchill, Manitoba in Wapusk Provincial Park. While there I assisted with ringed seal and arctic fox research. In the spring of 2014 I moved to Oregon to survey spotted owls in the Tillamook Forest before returning to Iowa to conduct wildlife surveys at wind energy facilities across the state. I continued with this work becoming a project manager until starting my position here at Johnson County Conservation.

It has been a lifelong dream of mine to become a naturalist so I spend time between my adventures teaching groups about biology, science, and nature, whenever an opportunity arose. I always felt this was where I fit best. I look forward to helping others foster a love of nature and I hope to learn even more than I can teach from the wonderful members of our community here in Johnson County!

Seth's Bio

I was born and raised in Johnson County, growing up 5 miles north of Kent Park on a beautiful acreage of prairie and wetlands. In my youth I enjoyed playing in the creek and swimming in "Duck Tails" pond next to the Hawkeye Wildlife Management Area. I love driving tractors, go karts, mowers, dirt bikes, and anything else I could get stuck.

Prior to the Field Worker II position, my work experience included: Property Stewardship Specialist at Bur Oak Land Trust, City of Coralville Stormwater Technician, Amana Colonies Golf Club grounds crew, Amana Forestry Department, many positions at an inpatient psychiatric facility in Cedar Rapids, and (the most challenging of all) stay at home dad.

I currently reside at Cangleska Wakan with my wife Peggy and our three sons, Max, Bob, and Ted. You can find us outside on summer evenings catching fireflies, snakes, and frogs, racing bikes, and getting dirty! When I get free time I like to organize the annual Clear Creek cleanup, spend time on the water, skiing on a mountain, hunting, fishing, or working in my woodshop.

I have had the great opportunity of working with Mr. Dick Schwab during the transition of Cangleska Wakan to public land. His skill and work ethic is admirable. I am excited to steward this magnificent property for many years to come, and I look forward to introducing the community to this amazing Johnson County Conservation property.

Terry's Bio

I have been serving Johnson County residents as a staff member of the Johnson County Conservation Board (JCCB) since 1989. My duties with the JCCB include working with other staff members to provide the maintenance and construction of facilities within JCCB areas. These duties are numerous and diverse from day to day. My duties can include, but are not limited to, harvesting prairie seed, building shelters, pouring concrete, trimming trees, construction/installing signage, and much more. I also supervise other field staff and seasonal employees to complete these tasks efficiently and to the highest of standards. The entire staff of the JCCB takes pride in the high quality work we provide to our county residents.

Away from work I enjoy spending time on my rural Oxford farm with my wife Stephanie. Our home is the same house in which I was born and raised. In our "spare" time we enjoy raising  a few cattle, miniature horses and working around the farm. Stephanie and I are members of the Iowa Miniature Horse Club.

Aside from our small farming operation and miniature horse business, I enjoy hunting deer and going trout fishing.

I enjoy working for the JCCB and hop that you enjoy visiting our fine parks.

Ben's Bio

My name is Ben Woltz. I am a Field Worker II with the Johnson County Conservation Board. I began working with the Board in 2013 as a seasonal employee and now find myself enjoying my work with Johnson County year round.

I grew up in Bremer County where I spent many days hunting and fishing along the Cedar River. My passion for the outdoors led me to a B.A. in Biology and Environmental Science from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. A few years later I returned to school and attained my M.S. in Experiential Education from Minnesota State University in Mankato, Minnesota.

I take pride in the diversity of my experiences that have led me to where I am today. I have lived in Illinois, Minnesota (twice), Montana, and Washington State but Iowa has always called me back home where I currently live in Swisher, Iowa. I have worked for the National Park Service, Iowa DNR, and ISU county extension as well as multiple stints with the educational, business, and construction trades.

If I’m not at Kent Park, you may see me at one of the parks in southern Johnson County where I have been charged with maintaining the grounds and facilities at Hills Access, River Junction, Walker Park, and Scott Church. However, you will rarely find me at home. I love to travel (I have been to every state west of the Mississippi) and spend most of my free time finding new places to hike, camp, kayak, and fish with my family and friends. But there are also many special places here in Johnson County, so please, take time and enjoy all the opportunities out there.

Ed's Bio

I am the Trails Field Worker for the Johnson County Conservation Board. My duties include maintaining and caring for the trails in Johnson County but I also help take care of other JCCB properties when needed.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I received a degree in Conservation. I chose the Conservation field because I wanted to work and help protect the beauty of our natural resources. I grew up on a small dairy farm outside Rice Lake, Wisconsin where I spent a lot of my time in the nearby Rusk County Forest where my love for the outdoors was born. I enjoy hunting whitetail deer, fishing for whatever bites, and exploring nature.

I look forward to meeting you and hop to see you out on the trails soon!

Alicia 's Bio

I grew up in Anamosa, Iowa where I would explore the woods and creek behind my house with my brother. My father would take me hiking and we would explore the area and identify flowers and birds. I have always had a passion for the outdoors and love staying active with activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and biking.  I continue with my lifelong interest with plants and animals and have a home full of both.  When I am not working or enjoying the outdoors, I enjoy spending time with family, traveling, or building/crafting.

I graduated from Kirkwood with Parks and Natural Resources and I am currently working on a degree in Rangeland Sciences on-line. I was active with natural resources groups in my college and would attend many events and conferences.  This is where I gained most of my certifications related to conservation. I have a diverse work history with Jones County Conservation as a Naturalist Intern, garden center employee with Forevergreen, the US Army Corps of Engineers as a seasonal park ranger, and with the Johnson County Conservation Board.

I am happy to be working in beautiful Johnson County as a Field Worker at Two Horse Farm and put my passion for conservation into my everyday work.  I have witnessed what can happen with consistent hard work and love to see the results.  I had the wonderful opportunity to work with the Melloys and learn so much on the abundant history and what it takes to manage this beautiful property. Johnson County has many wonderful places, come check them out!

Natalie's Bio

My hometown is Williamsburg, Iowa. As far back as I can remember my Dad and I would spend time fishing, hunting pheasants, mushroom hunting or anything outdoors. One of my favorite things about pheasant hunting has been our hunting dogs. We have had a Viszla, Brittany, and a German Shorthair Pointer, all of which were great dogs with unique hunting styles. We also spend many days afield fishing walleye and crappie.

My love of the outdoors led me to study Parks and Natural Resources at Kirkwood followed by a pursuit of a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation Management at Upper Iowa University. I graduated from Kirkwood Community College in 2019 and received my Bachelor’s Degree from UIU in 2021.

I’ve enjoyed internships with Colorado Parks and Wildlife working as a sworn Park Ranger and Maintenance Technician for 2 summers. I also interned with the Butler County Conservation Board as a Naturalist.

I am excited to begin my full time career here with Johnson County Conservation where I worked as a seasonal on the Natural Resource Management crew. Kent Park is a beautiful well-maintained park that I am very proud to be associated with.