Board of Directors and Staff
Gerry Miller, President
Gerry is a multi-generational Nevadan whose lifelong connection to the state’s landscapes and natural resources has shaped a distinguished career in conservation and land management. Throughout his career, he served as a natural resource manager with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Nevada Conservation Districts Program, where he worked to promote sustainable land stewardship, rangeland health, and natural resource conservation across the state. His extensive knowledge of Nevada’s ecosystems, combined with decades of experience working with ranchers, landowners, and public agencies, has made him a respected leader in resource management.
Gary Reese, Vice-President
Gary has successfully combined a career in range management with a lifelong passion for art, photography, and history. Throughout his career, he has worked across the United States, specializing in plant ecology, ecological restoration, vegetation classification, and landscape mapping. His unique blend of scientific expertise and artistic perspective provides valuable insight into the relationship between people, landscapes, and the natural environment.
Kristine Austin-Preston, Treasurer
Kristine serves as the dedicated Treasurer for the HWCWMA, where she plays an essential role in supporting the organization’s mission to protect Nevada’s landscapes from invasive and noxious weeds. Through her careful financial oversight and commitment to the organization, Kristine helps ensure the continued success of programs that promote education, collaboration, and effective weed management throughout the region. Kristine’s passion for supporting local organizations and protecting Nevada’s natural resources continues to benefit both her community and the landscapes of the state.
Chase Chapin, Board Member
Chase is a lifelong rancher and agricultural producer from Battle Mountain, Nevada, where he has developed a deep appreciation for the land, livestock, and traditions that define rural Nevada. Raised in a ranching community, Chase learned early the values of hard work, stewardship, and dedication that continue to guide both his personal and professional life.
As a rancher, Chase has extensive experience in livestock management, range stewardship, water resources, and the day-to-day operations required to maintain a successful agricultural operation in Nevada’s challenging climate. His understanding of the land and commitment to sustainable ranching practices have helped preserve both the productivity of working landscapes and the rural way of life that is central to Nevada’s heritage.
Mitch Neilsen, Board Member
Mitch serves as the Noxious Weed Specialist for Eureka County, where he is dedicated to protecting the county’s natural resources, agricultural lands, and rangelands through effective noxious weed management. With a strong commitment to invasive species control, Mitch works closely with landowners, agencies, and community partners to identify, monitor, and manage invasive weeds that threaten the health and productivity of Nevada’s landscapes. His knowledge of weed management practices, integrated control methods, and land stewardship has made him a valuable resource within the county.
Steve Lucas, Board Member
Steve is a rancher from Paradise Valley, Nevada, with a lifelong connection to the land and the ranching traditions of northern Nevada. Through years of experience in livestock and range management, he has developed a strong commitment to responsible stewardship of natural resources and the sustainability of working landscapes. Steve values the importance of agriculture, community, and conservation, and he remains dedicated to preserving Nevada’s ranching heritage for future generations.
Andi Porreca, Coordinator
Andi Porreca is a dedicated natural resource professional and community advocate with a passion for forestry, conservation, and improving the quality of life in rural Nevada communities. Andi has devoted her career to helping communities strengthen their relationship with the natural environment through education, collaboration, and sustainable land management practices.
A lifelong resident of northeastern Nevada, Andi has called Spring Creek home since 1984. She has a deep appreciation for the region’s landscapes, particularly its trees, native flowers, sagebrush, and the Ruby Mountains. Her connection to the land has inspired her commitment to conservation and community service.