Our Team

Dan is currently retired after a long career with a major global transportation company. He traveled between Chicago and Cape Coral for several years before becoming a full time Florida resident in 2020. He is an avid fisherman and outdoorsman, and reversing the deterioration of local waterways is his passion. “I believe with science, vigilance and accountability that we can all enjoy a healthy ecosystem in southwest Florida.”

James is an ecologist interested in describing, protecting, and teaching about the biological diversity and beneficial functions of coastal watersheds and marine habitats. He addresses the interactive effects of these threats through research and teaching at Florida Gulf Coast University, and increasingly through outreach in the community. “These systems are simultaneously threatened by decreasing water quality, changing physical conditions, and overharvest of important species.”

Mother to two wonderful young boys, who motivate her ongoing environmental justice work, she is enrolled as a Political Science student at FGCU and has been a grassroots activist and community organizer for years. She volunteers for organizations advocating for the environment and Everglades restoration, and is inspired to create the political will for climate solutions.

As a nurse and attorney, Mary Kay worked as in-house counsel and Director of Operations for a Michigan healthcare company. She oversaw multiple operations, including risk management, quality control, human resources, and overall patient care. Growing up near freshwater lakes and rivers, Mary Kay developed a love for water. Since moving to Cape Coral in 2006, she has experienced the declining health of our waters firsthand, motivating her to become a Calusa Waterkeeper Ranger, champion water quality initiatives such as the Right to Clean Water Amendment, and most recently, joining the Calusa Waterkeeper Board of Directors.

Jim has been visiting Florida since the 1950’s and went to the University of Miami in the 60’s. He’s been a waterfront property owner here since 2004. He has served as President of numerous Boards of water quality watch dog groups, such as the Clark Fork Coalition and the Rock Creek Alliance as well as founding the Kaniksu Land Trust. He is an avid boater and fisherman and attended the first class for Waterkeeper Rangers. Jim has served as both Treasurer and President of the board.

John’s professional career as an ecologist started here in Lee County in 1978 after receiving degrees in Biology and Fish and Wildlife. From 1978 to 2014 he worked as a resource manager for local government, managing waterways of Southwest Florida. He has authored both peer-reviewed scientific publications and popular media sources on resource management, history, water policy and conservation issues. His service on advisory boards, his commitment to community and involvement with land and water conservation has led to recognition from various civic groups, Including the Florida Audubon Society, Estero Bay Agency on Bay Management, Lee County Government, the Everglades Coalition, the American Fisheries Society, and the Alberta provincial government. In November 2016, John accepted the position of Calusa Waterkeeper, a member of the international Waterkeeper Alliance. In December 2022, John retired and the board bestowed the title of Calusa Waterkeeper Emeritus to honor his incredible service and leadership.