Meet The Team

Born and raised in Eureka Springs, Sam's career in outdoor recreation began in Yosemite National Park, where he acquired a love for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. After a two-year stint in northern Utah working at various ski resorts, Sam found himself back in Northwest Arkansas, where he acquired a new passion for mountain biking. This passion led to a career in the trail maintenance industry, including two years as the Trails Manager for ESP&R. Sam was promoted to Director on March 1, 2023. When not at work, you may find Sam hiking or biking with his family, hosting trivia nights, or playing music.​

Juanita is a naturalist, outdoor educator, adventurer, and lover and protector of all that is wild. She started at Parks in 2022 as Administrative Assistant and quickly became the Lake Leatherwood City Park Manager. Her previous life experience as an outdoor educator, small business owner, and Eureka Springs native made her transition to the Parks team the perfect fit.  Juanita is honored to work for the City of Eureka Springs and for our community! When not at work, Juanita enjoys paddleboarding, mountain biking, and spending time with her amazing family.

As a Eureka Springs native, Jeff has always had a deep connection to the Ozarks' natural beauty. After spending time in Phoenix, he returned home, drawn by his love for the Buffalo National River and the region's scenic trails. As the Trails Manager for Eureka Springs, Jeff combines his passion for the outdoors with his commitment to enhancing the local trail system that shaped his upbringing. When he's not working on trails, you'll likely find him mountain biking, board gaming with friends, floating the river, or building his house — always surrounded by family and the community he loves.

Raised in southern Arkansas & Louisiana, Nicky moved to NW Arkansas after working 30 years for a non-profit in Sonoma County, California, which included the management of a two-acre organic farm. Not just a lover of plants, Nicky is also a sports aficionado, dubbing himself as, "the best golfer who never got that good." Nicky is also a prolific writer and is the author of a weekly editorial in the ES Independent titled, "The Dirt on Nicky". When not at work, Nicky enjoys digging in the dirt, playing guitar, and planning his next adventure to see his children and grandchildren. 

An Arkansas native, Noah is an avid outdoorsman with a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and exploring nature. From an early age, Noah developed a love for the great outdoors. Whether tracking game or casting a line, Noah is always looking for things to do in nature, including working for ESPR! Along with his love of the outdoors, Noah's mechanical and carpentry skills made him a perfect fit for the team. When not at work, Noah enjoys fishing, hunting game, or spending time with friends and family.

An Ozark native, Sharon has always held a deep love and appreciation for the beauty of Eureka Springs' historical parks and gardens. After working as a school administrator in Kansas City, MO, she moved back to Eureka Springs where she now has the honor of putting her passion for creating beautiful landscapes to work. When not at work, you may find Sharon hiking one of the many trails or floating one of the many rivers located in or around Eureka Springs.