Our Team

Kurt Zeilenga, President and Executive Director

Kurt is our Executive Director. He has significant executive and director-level experience in both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Kurt is a retired research and development engineer who specialized in computer networking and security technologies.

Kurt is an avid fly fisher who enjoys chasing after wild, native trout. He also enjoys writing. While the majority of his writings are published at zTrout.org, he also writes articles for us.

Jimmy Gaver, Secretary

Jimmy serves as our secretary. He is a retired service operations manager but continues to work part time at a local fly shop.

Jimmy enjoys being on two wheels.

Jeff Evans, Treasurer

Jeff serves as our treasurer and science advisor. He has over thirty years of leadership and operational experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Jeff holds a Ph.D. in organic chemistry and is currently the Senior Vice President of Operations of Serán BioScience.

Jeff is also an avid fly fisher and a former fly fishing guide. He currently enjoying exploring the waterways of central Oregon. Check out Jeff's Blog.

Beth Hansen, Teaching Advisor

Beth, a certified educator with the Douglas County School District, provides valuable insights into effectively delivering educational programs. She actively collaborates with us in the development of K-12 educational programs. Beth holds a master's degree in teaching and a bachelor's degree in speech communication.

Jan Nemec, Wildlife Education Advisor and NDOW Liaison

Jan is the Western Region Angler Education Coordinator at the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). He manages the Trout in the Classroom program in Western Nevada which serves over 1500 students. Jan provides advice on a wide range of wildlife education topics. He also serves as a liaison between our team and NDOW.  Jan also assists us in the preparation of grant applications.

Jan is also a professional fly tier. Jan authored the Flyfisher's Guide to Nevada.