Matthew: From Northwoods Explorer to ABR Trails Leader
Matthew grew up in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Like many proud hodags, he grew
up in the forest and on the water. Whether hunting, angling, camping, or hiking, or trying
something new, Matthew considers himself an avid recreationist. He is always
interested in trying, learning, and exploring more. Matthew’s greatest adventure started
when he married his high school sweetheart, Kelsey, in 2013. They have been adventuring together ever since.
Matthew began his academic journey at the University of Wisconsin — Whitewater, focusing primarily on philosophy, with special interests in epistemology, metaphysics, and environmental ethics. Living briefly in Missouri, Matthew received his master’s in religious studies from Missouri State University. From there, they moved back to the Northwoods of Wisconsin, where Matthew worked at a recreation education camp as a program manager and camp director. After a few years there, he decided to further pursue outdoor recreation as a professional field, working for three years as the Assistant Facilities and Parks Director for Marinette County in northeast Wisconsin. There he managed several parks, trails, campgrounds, and more.
He is also furthering his academic career at the University of Wisconsin—Stevens Point
in their Master’s of Natural Resources in Conservation and Leadership program. En route to this degree, he is also earning graduate certificates in applied management and environmental education and interpretation.
In his free time, Matthew is active in a variety of recreational activities, such as hunting, angling, outdoor photography, and more. He has spent time volunteering as a hunter’s safety instructor, volunteer surveyor for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Rare Plant Monitoring Program, chapter board member for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and an active member of his local church. Matthew and Kelsey are both honored and excited to be a part of the future of ABR Trails.
Matthew and Kelsey will be moving into the farmhouse at the ABR Trailhead. Kelsey and Angela have already been planning their joint gardening efforts and Matthew and Eric have been making plans to get out on the trails for maintenance.
Matthew and his Wife Kelsey are Eager to begin their next adventure in Ironwood
Welcome to the ABR Trails team, Matthew and Kelsey! We’re thrilled to have you both with us.
