Our People

This is George, the painted turtle, who entertains us at the EcoCenter.  He loves visitors!

Myrick Hixon EcoPark employs several staff members. These hard working people are the ones that show up almost every day to keep the EcoCenter running. They are also the ones that everybody meets when they come in for programs or to ask questions.

Jim Gallagher Executive Director
Stephanie Hanna Conservation/Education Manager	Hello and bonjour!   I’m Stephanie Hanna the Conservation/Education Manager at MHEP.  I moved from the northern edge of the Great Plains of North America (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan) to the eastern edge of the Great Plains in the Driftless Area (La Crosse, Wisconsin) 12 years ago. I have been part of this organization for almost 10 years and I have thoroughly enjoyed the rewards and challenges that come with being a part of a team (staff and volunteers) who are passionate about preserving all parts of our natural resources.     My background as an educator and biologist make this the perfect place for me!  I love teaching and learning especially about anything having to do with nature and science.  If I am not outdoors and need to be inside, I prefer to be trying new recipes and cooking a meal for my husband and/or friends who usually don’t mind being my “guinea pigs”. Speaking of my husband, Greg Siemens, he is quite the techie, which comes in handy for MHEP as he has become our volunteer IT guy.   I am also a major theater and film enthusiast and love to spend time with my “20 lbs of dogs” – Gromit, a neurotic 12 lb. black miniature poodle and Courage, a shy 8 lb. black toy poodle.  I am so grateful because every day at MHEP brings new knowledge and experiences! So feel free to ask me any questions you might have about nature and about the latest film too!
Michelle Nelson Operations Manager	Hi all!  Yes after 6 years, I'm back!  Scary isn't it?  For those that don't know me, my name is Michelle Nelson.  I'm MHEP's Business Manager. I worked here from 1995-2002 and decided it was time to get back to doing what I love.  What is that you ask?  A little bit of everything!  I love this organization, this community and the incredible natural resources we have in this area!  I can't believe we live where you can be in the middle of the city walking, look up and see a Bald Eagle.  It's just incredible! I of course had to put a picture up that includes Artemis, our fuzzy buddy.  Everyone gets tired of me talking about his antics, but they are just non-stop.  Also, for those who think I'm making up my husband, Roy, here is his picture too! Please let me know if you have any questions on birdseed, special events, memberships, snowshoe rentals or anything else for that matter.  I'm here to answer all your questions!
Lindsey Winger Zoo Keeper	I grew up in northern Wisconsin, in a town called Jump River, on a hobby farm.  I graduated Gilman High School in 2000.  Attending Mt. Senario College in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, I majored in biology and minored in art.  In 2003 I transferred to UW-Stevens Point.  Majoring in biology and minoring in captive wildlife management, I knew that zoo keepin is what I wanted to do the rest of my life.  This challenging job keeps you active and wanting to learn more everyday.  The summer of 2004 I did an amazing internship at Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, WI that confirmed my interest in zoo keeping. When I'm not working with animals, I enjoy oil painting, woodworking, riding atv's, camping, fishing, and hunting. Working with animals has been a life long dream, and to be working at Myrick Hixon EcoPark is an incredible opportunity.  Contact me at p/s I love White Rhinos
Matt Paulson Zoo Keeper	Greetings everyone!   I am Matt Paulson, a zookeeper here at the MHEP. After an array of work experience, from wildlife researcher to veterinary technician and everything in between, I joined the MHEP team in November, 2008. My fascination in the biological sciences and interest in wild animals makes the EcoPark an ideal place for me.   Outside of work I enjoy many outdoor activities.  I am a hunter, a fisherman, and good with a grill; but, if I have to pick one, my favorite hobby is birding.  If weather keeps me indoors I like to tinker with my cichlid tank and have been known to play a videogame or two.  La Crosse is the perfect city for these pastimes; with the variety of habitats, the big river, and the Mississippi Flyway; but I may be a bit biased because this is my hometown.  I am proud of my city and that it has as suitable a place for me as the Myrick Hixon EcoPark.    I invite you to contact me with any questions regarding the zoo, the animals, or local wildlife.