The People Behind the Homestead

Jessica lives on site year-round and brings over 20 years of experience as a soil scientist to the lodge. Her deep understanding of the land informs everything from daily operations to long-term stewardship of the property.

She is deeply passionate about the environment and committed to responsible use of natural resources. Jessica’s approach blends science, respect for the land, and a quiet strength that reflects both her professional background and life in the Alaskan wilderness. When she is not working outdoors, she can often be found baking or canning, carrying that same care and intention into the way food is prepared and preserved at the homestead.  

Don is a lifelong Alaskan who lives on site year-round and keeps the homestead running in every season. He manages operations, maintenance, logistics, and the countless day-to-day demands that come with life in a truly remote place.

He is the person guests rely on when something needs to be built, repaired, hauled, or figured out. There is very little Don has not hunted, fixed, or learned to do out of necessity. Around the lodge, it is often said that if Don cannot fix it, it probably does not need fixing.

Nydia serves as the youth program director and is the primary connection between the lodge and its youth programs. She is a classroom teacher finishing a Master of Education and brings structure, care, and enthusiasm to every program.

While she may not claim the same rugged skills as Don and Jessica, she loves fishing and helping young people feel confident and capable in an unfamiliar environment. Nydia focuses on safety, growth, and creating meaningful experiences that help participants connect with both the land and each other.