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Our Staff
Jim Nelson, Owner
Jim has over two decades of natural resource experience in the midwest. He is a licensed IL pesticide applicator, an FAA Part 107 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle pilot, holds several federal wildland fire certifications, and is an IL Certified Burn Manager. Jim teaches a seasonal Intro to Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance workshop through the Technology Transfer Program for Illinois Department of Transportation. His extensive experience managing invasive species in Illinois is a valuable asset to our clients.
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John Schappaugh, Foreman
John joined NLM in October of 2020. His previous experience as a seasonal employee of IL Department of Natural Resources at New Salem State Park gave him experience in clearing areas of invasive species and treatment of the natural landscape. He gained knowledge of herbicides and farm equipment while working at the local Farm & Home store in Petersburg, Illinois. When he’s not working, you will find him officiating or participating in paintball tournaments across the US.
Kolten Adderman, Ecological Restoration Technician
Kolten was hired in April 2022. An avid waterfowl hunter, Kolten likes to spend his free time outdoors. He holds an Associates degree in Wildlife Conservation.
Kolten Adderman, Ecological Restoration Technician
Kolten was hired in April 2022. An avid waterfowl hunter, Kolten likes to spend his free time outdoors. He holds an Associates degree in Wildlife Conservation.
Kolten Adderman, Ecological Restoration Technician
Kolten was hired in April 2022. An avid waterfowl hunter, Kolten likes to spend his free time outdoors. He holds an Associates degree in Wildlife Conservation.
Kolten Adderman, Ecological Restoration Technician
Kolten was hired in April 2022. An avid waterfowl hunter, Kolten likes to spend his free time outdoors. He holds an Associates degree in Wildlife Conservation.
Steven Melin,
Ecological Restoration Technician
Steven joined Nelson Land Management in June 2023. He holds a bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies and Wildlife Management from Illinois College in Jacksonville, IL. His experience as an intern with US Fish & Wildlife Service has served him well in his position here.
Quentin Calonzo, Ecological Restoration Technician
Quentin joined NLM in February of 2024. He is deeply passionate not only about the planetary wellbeing, but also the overall health of our local ecosystems that so many people depend on to live. He holds a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management from University of Washington Seattle.
Gaige Murphy,
Ecological Restoration Technician
Gaige joined Nelson Land Management in May of 2024. We rely on him often, not only as a restoration tech but an all-around mechanic and equipment maintenance pro.
James Ely, Ecological Restoration Technician
James joined NLM in November of 2024. He holds a bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from Sienna College. His previous work experience includes a position at Lake Manatee State Park in Florida where he assisted with park maintenance and invasive species control.
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