Staff Transitions- Growing our Leaders to Save More Land

As you know, NWALT is a small and passionate team with a dedicated community of supporters committed to permanent land conservation for all in Northwest Arkansas. As we continued our march to save 10,000 acres in our region, in May we felt it was time to realign to meet the challenge.  

This realignment means a significant and timely transition for three of our very own. Marson Nance has accepted a new role as Director of Philanthropy for NWALT. Marson will focus on building a broad coalition of grassroots support from donors, advocates, and partners at every level. “I’ve been stewarding land for almost six years, and now I think it’s time for me to start stewarding our friends and supporters across Northwest Arkansas,” Marson says. “Our community is the backbone of what we do and the foundation upon which permanent land conservation is built. We can’t do it without public support, and broadening our base is critical to meeting not only NWALT’s goals, but for building a legacy of land protection in the region. I’m proud to be an NWALTer and excited for the future of the organization and our home.” 

Another member of our stewardship team has accepted reassignment as Renee Sniegocki was promoted to Director of Land Stewardship. Renee is an accomplished biologist and respected land manager and has been instrumental in the stewardship of NWALT preserves and conservation easements. Renee has served as Land Stewardship Manager since 2020, coming on board during the height of the pandemic. As Director, she will oversee the permanent protection of nearly 8,000 acres (and counting!) in NWALT’s conservation portfolio.  “I am deeply honored to step into the role of Director of Land Stewardship,” Renee says. “My four years as Land Stewardship manager has been incredibly rewarding, and I am eager to continue working alongside our dedicated supporters, partners, and landowners to uphold our commitment to protecting conservation easements and stewarding land for generations to come.” 

Along with Marson and Renee’s announcements, there’s a new face on the land protection team. Evan Johnson, who has served as NWALT’s Community Engagement Manager since 2022 has accepted a new position as Conservation Easement Manager. Evan says, “I'm thrilled  for my transition to the Land Protection team as the new Conservation Easement Manager. I look forward to connecting with landowners and working together to preserve the beautiful landscapes we all love. As a lifelong Arkansan, I am excited to contribute to the future conservation efforts of our region for future generations to enjoy!” Evan’s education in environmental management and policy, along with his endearing persona are sure to make immediate positive impacts in Northwest Arkansas. Evan will be working alongside Director of Land Protection, Pam Nelson, to place new properties into permanent conservation.  

“At NWALT we pride ourselves in setting all our staff up for success. We work to match each team member’s strengths and professional aspirations to roles which make the organization nimbler and more effective in protecting land for all of us,” says Executive Director and CEO, Grady Spann. “When the team is doing what they love, it benefits all of us- the organization and the region.”