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
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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.
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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
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John Boeder
Educator, The Edgerton Explorit Center - Aurora, NE
Education: BS in Agricultural Education 6-12 from UW-River Falls
Professional Background: Teacher, Executive Chef
Hobbies: Cooking, Running Ultra marathons (50 miles,12 hrs, 50K), gardening, hunting, and fishing.
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Jason Buss
President Nebraska Trails Foundation & HR Manager of Camaco LLC
Education and background
BA Missouri Western State University Business Administration (HR)
What do you like about being on the board or how you serve PPG
I have enjoyed building hosting events and building trails in Columbus, Central City and across Nebraska over the last 15 years. It is so much fun to lead our Taco Rides, hosting and timing races at the Dark Island Trail and Bader Park or elsewhere. You find the best people at any of these events or serving on our board.
Hobbies
I enjoy life by being active with my family and friends, running, biking, skiing or anything else outdoors. I also love filming any of these activities from my drone to encourage others to enjoy activities outdoors.
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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.
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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
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Cindy McClellan
Web and Multimedia Designer at Hamilton Telecommunications, Aurora, NE
Cindy joined the board in 2021 to assist with marketing. She serves as the Marketing Committee Chairperson.
Hobbies: Kite Flying, Kayaking, Hiking and Biking.
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Jackie Beaver
Physician assistant- Grand island dermatology
Education
Bachelors of science, biology UNO, masters of PA UNMC
Hobbies
Biking, running, camping, mushroom hunting
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Mike Hansen
Job Title
Currently retired, former Meat Buyer
Education
National School of Meat Cutting in Toledo
What you like about being on the board
I want to help maintain the grounds and be active, and give insight as a trail user
Hobbies
Hunting everything possible
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Ruth Simmons
Surgery Supervisor RN at MCHI in Aurora
Education
BSN and MSN from University of Wyoming, currently a PhD student in the Caring Science program at CU Anschutz in Denver.
What do you like about being on the board and how do you serve PPG?
I love having a chance to be closer to the Dark Island Trail and Bader Park, giving back to the land that has already given so much to me since I moved here four years ago. It’s a great sense of community and there are so many opportunities to learn alongside our wonderful communities.
Hobbies
Painting, running, hiking, gardening, and generally being outside!
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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
