Our staff, board of directors and volunteers have a strong commitment to helping others learn about and enjoy nature.
Our board represents a cross-section of our community and has a passion for our organization and those we serve. The members work hard to ensure long-term sustainability of Bader Park and the Dark Island Trail and oversee that the funds raised directly enhances our areas.
Staff
-
Hannah Clark
Platte PEER Group Executive Director
Education Bachelors of Science- Fisheries and Wildlife, UNL
What do you like about being a part of Platte PEER Group?
I like to use my passion and love for the land to educate and encourage others to spend more time outdoors.
Hobbies
Fishing, Hiking, Crafting, and Exploring
Hannah Clark joined the Platte PEER Group as its executive director in November 2021 and oversees the operations of Bader Park and the Dark Island Trail.
Hannah is a 2021 graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in fisheries and wildlife-law enforcement option and minor in geography and criminology.
She has worked at Mormon Island State Recreation Area since 2018 working on grounds and building maintenance as well as an equipment operator. She also worked in the park office on public relations and finances. Clark is proficient in ArcMap and Garmin Montana software.
Hannah has been involved with UNL’s Wildlife Club, Wildlife Society and Horses for Healing, and has experience in managing stables and working with horses. She has served as a crew member in the Dannebrog Volunteer Fire Department.
-
Tucker Pool
Tucker Pool started as Deputy Director of Platte PEER Group in July of 2024. He has worked seasonally at Bader Park since 2019. Tucker contributes to the organization's overall success by providing leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight across various functional areas.
Tucker has education in cyber security from University of Nebraska- Omaha. Previous work experience prior to Platte PEER Group include various roles in commercial roofing. His skill set includes project planning and management, programming, land management, and customer service.
He has a deep love and appreciation for the outdoors. As a dedicated outdoorsman and fisherman he is always looking for means to improve visitors' experience at Bader Park and the Dark Island Trail.
Board of Directors
-
Jason Buss
Occupation:
Division HR Manager
Education:
BS Business Admin (HR), Minor in Spanish
Hobbies:
Cycling, Running, Golfing
Why are you a part of Platte PEER Group?
When we moved to Central City we visited Bader Park our first winter and fell in love. Someone heard I had built 5 miles of trail in Columbus and asked me to join the trail group, which later merged with Platte PEER Group.
-
Jackie Beaver
Occupation:
Physician Assistant
Education:
Bachelor of Science- Biology
Maters of Physician Assistant
Hobbies:
Biking, running, morel hunting and foraging
Why are you a part of Platte PEER Group?
As a nature and health enthusiast, I find enjoyment in preserving and protecting our green spaces for our local residents and visitors.
-
Kayla Swanson
Occupation:
Dental Assistant
Education:
Associates Degree in Dental Assisting
Hobbies:
Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, and Drawing
Why are you a part of Platte PEER Group?
My husband and I love using the Dark Island Trail with our dog (Chief). We love camping at Bader Park and volunteering every chance we get. So we thought what a great way to help keep up the trail and the park.
-
Sarah Bailey
Naturalist Educator, Prairie Plains Resource Institute - Aurora, NE
Sarah holds a B.S. in biological sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is a natural outdoor educator and knows just what kind of rock and roll prairie seedlings need to thrive.
Hobbies: Photography
Sarah hosts Bader Park’s Nature Hikes.
-
Tom Weller
Farmer, Merrick county supervisor, bus driver at Palmer Public Schools
Tom serves on the board as the Merrick County Representative
Education
Palmer high school
What do you like about being on the board of Platte PEER Group?
I enjoy being on the board and helping the park remain safe and enjoyable.
Hobbies
Spending time with my grandkids
-
Allen Kohtz
Podcast Producer, at BIG SAC Productions, U/I Sonified Podcast Studios
Recording Industry Association of America, RIAA Certified Multi Platinum
Past Experience: State of Nebraska Game and Parks: Groundskeeping, Customer Service and Park Conservation.
Education: Hampton Public Schools class of 1989What do you like about being a part of Platte PEER Group?
I grew up on my grandparents farm east of Marquette and enjoyed a lifetime of seasons and activities at Bader Park. I am proud and honored to give back effort and experience to preserve a place I call Home, for Our future generations.
Hobbies: Camping, Photography, Records, Pop Culture, Music, and Hammock Naps -
Board Member
Darrel Widman
Occupation:
Retired farmer and popcorn plant owner
Education:
3 years college
Hobbies:
Jigsaw puzzles and genealogy
Why are you a part of Platte PEER Group?
I like to be involved in the community.
