Nick Killian
Recreational Operations Manager
With over 35 years of experience in outdoor recreation, Nick specializes in staff mentorship, developing teams to exceed customers’ expectations through operations on the Crystal River. He graduated from Ferris State University with a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Leadership Management focusing on Outdoor Adventure Education. Nick’s hobby is hobbies. Hobbies range from fly fishing, biking, skiing, scuba, board games, hunting, music, camping, backpacking, movies, paddling, and travelling. He lives in Lake Ann, MI, basing his entire recreation career experiences out of Northwest Lower Michigan.
All Sessions by Nick Killian
Restoring What Connects Us
The world of conservation is one where funding is competitive, resources are limited, and support can waver. Encouragingly, it’s also a field driven by passion, grounded in collaboration, and strengthened by partnerships that create opportunity. Together, we can achieve far more than any of us could alone. The Crystal River Initiative demonstrates what is possible when tribal nations, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and community partners come together around a shared vision for conservation. Explore how collaboration restored a healthier river system while improving public access, strengthening recreation opportunities, and honoring the cultural and spiritual connections that people have with the landscape. Using the Crystal River as a case study, presenters will share lessons learned from building partnerships, navigating complex restoration projects, and balancing ecological, recreational, and community priorities. Attendees will leave with practical insights into how collaborative conservation can create lasting benefits for both people and nature, and why protecting what connects us requires working together.