Jon Breithaupt, Executive Director

jon[at]walloon.org

Jon has been a lifelong steward of important natural landscapes. Born and raised in Traverse City, his deep connection to nature took root early, inspired by the forests, lakes and changing seasons of his home region. This passion evolved into a dedicated career in conservation and public land management that has spanned diverse ecosystems across the country.

He and his wife Kennedy, a fellow Michigander, have two cats and two energetic dogs. In his free time, you’ll find Jon hiking, mountain biking, gardening, fishing, paddling or skiing. Jon holds an associate degree in business administration from Northwestern Michigan College, a bachelor’s degree in outdoor and environmental recreation administration from Central Michigan University, and a master’s degree in natural resources stewardship from Colorado State University.

Tanner Yurk, Conservation Programs Manager

tanner[at]walloon.org

Tanner is a native of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and a graduate of Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fisheries and Wildlife. After graduating, Tanner gained experience with invasive species and habitat restoration in the private, governmental, and NGO sectors. Tanner and his wife, Hannah, enjoy taking their dog, Theo, to the beach and to parks for walks and relaxing.

Kenzie Boesen, Membership and Communications Coordinator

kenzie[at]walloon.org

Kenzie is a proud Northern Michigan native with a deep appreciation for the region’s natural beauty. Kenzie has a background in psychology and event management, and she thrives on creativity and finding thoughtful, innovative ways to support the community.

Outside of work, Kenzie’s spends her time with her energetic German Shepherd/Goldendoodle mix, Milo, Great Pyrenees puppy, Flo, and her partner, Jordan. Whether they're exploring the outdoors or enjoying a quiet evening in, Kenzie values meaningful moments with loved ones most.

Skylar MacNaughton, Trail Maintenance Technician

skylar[at]walloon.org

Skylar is a Northern Michigan boy through and through! He was born and raised in Boyne City where he still resides with his wife, Jessica, and two children, Bella and Jaxtyn. They are an outdoorsy family and enjoy camping, hiking, traveling the country, and raising monarch butterflies in the summer months. Skylar is also the president and founder of Michigan Butterfly Habitats Inc. where their mission is to spread knowledge about native plantings throughout Northern Michigan and to help landowners create pollinator habitats of their own. He is an entrepreneur at heart as well as a self-taught naturalist and spends most of his time in the woods learning and experiencing what Mother Nature has to offer.