Associate degree in environmental sciences through Iowa Lakes Community College, transferred to Northwest Missouri State University and received BS degree in Wildlife and Conservation Management with a minor in Biology. Began work at Lyon County Conservation Department in summer of 1986 as a summer intern. Worked for that organization till 2021, working through the ranks till I became the Executive Director in 1995. Rebuilt all the infrastructure at Lake Pahoja to accommodate the increased usage of the park, this included 3 total rebuilding of campground comfort stations, electrical infrastructure within the park, a park ranger residence, 4 mile concrete trail, a 5200 square foot shop, 8 camping cabins, additional 19 camping seasonal spots, and a 2 million dollar education center that came with $2000 dollars of projected construction budget. Along with acquisition of 1800 acres of wildlife property. On these properties were redevelopments of native prairie, farm pond developments, oxbow restorations, native hardwood nut seedings, and food plots.
Married to Susan Vander Stoep, who graduated from Dordt in 1989 with a Computer Science degree. 4 children that attended Doon Christian school and Hull Christian School and on to Western Christian School. 3 out of the 4 attended Dordt University.
Served on Doon Christian School Board, Western Christian School Board, Deacon and Elder at Doon URC. Served on Iowa’s wildlife habitat stamp committee for county public land acquisition delegating over $500,000 annually to acquire unique areas in Iowa for public use areas. Served on this committee for 6 years and was a very rewarding committee. Lifetime member of Pheasants Forever and received the Professional Excellence Award from this organization for habitat protection and development .
I have been very blessed to work in God’s kingdom to preserve and create areas for the enjoyment of His people.