Our Team

Nic earned a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Anthropology and a Master in Science for Primate Conservation from Oxford Brookes University in England. Nic also has over ten years of experience in non-profit management and field work, which, includes studying Capuchin monkeys in Suriname and Saki monkeys in Venezuela. As Executive Director, Nic works to help ensure the long-term sustainability of the Friends of Fish Creek.

Emma is a University of Calgary alumni who has  focused her work in terrestrial and aquatic ecology. Through six years of volunteer work, field experience, and working with industry, she has refined her interests in conservation and restoration, narrowing her focus onto the non-profit sector. Exploring tide pools, creeks, wetlands, and rivers have always been favorite pastimes, making the reality of working with volunteers in Fish Creek an exciting opportunity.

In summer 2021 Dylan worked with the Friends as a Canada Conservation Corps (CCC) intern, helping with the native plant nursery, weed watchers and many other stewardship activities. Dylan has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Cultural Anthropology from the University of Calgary, completed SAIT’s Automotive Service Technician program, and has outdoor leadership experience. He has also volunteered with Calgary Reads, Humans of Calgary, and Pioneer Camp Alberta.

Kumiko completed her Masters of Forest Ecology in Shimane, Japan in 2003. After graduation, she led tours as a Field Interpreter and worked in the area of Wild Bear Management in Japan. Throughout her career, she has come to believe that accurate knowledge and good experiences are the keys to conserving nature. In recent years Kumiko volunteered with the Friends of Fish Creek and worked as a Program Assistant. She is keen to connect people to nature, and is very pleased and excited to once again be part of this team.

Monica earned a Master of Arts in Biological Anthropology from the University of Calgary studying the behavioural ecology of primates. She has experience working with Nature Reserves and National Parks internationally in the fields of wildlife biology and waste management, and conducted research on employment trends and HR solutions for Canada’s environmental workforce. Monica coordinates Corporate Stewardship Days, Park Tours and Wellness programs to engage the community in Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Ross recently graduated from St. Mary’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and has worked at the Deer Run Community Centre in the maintenance and event planning departments. He is experienced in data collection and analysis, and outdoor fieldwork – including invasive species surveys, mapping, wildlife identification, and water quality testing. As the Field Assistant Ross enjoys working outside while using his skills, and learning about the park and the Friends conservation programs. 

In 2023, John (TJ) Timonera received the Friends’ Steward in Action award in recognition for his dedication to conservation and stewardship in Fish Creek. He recently graduated from St. Mary’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and completed his capstone project in the Glennfield and Votier’s Flats areas of the park. In his role he assists with stewardship and conservation programs like Restoration, Invasive Species Management, Beaver Coexistence, ReWilding, Public Outreach and many others.

Kayla has a passion for nature, the outdoors and education. She brings to her role as Learning Naturally Coordinator a wealth of educational achievements and real-world teaching experience. Kayla earned a Masters of Science from Simon Fraser University, a BEd from Queen’s University, and a BSc from UofA. She has worked as an instructor with Timbernook, a substitute and classroom teacher, a Parks Canada Interpretive Coordinator, and an AB Parks Environmental Educator and Interpreter.