Staff

Jes Steele M.Ed.

Jes has a deep passion for the wilderness and for teaching. She has been working in the field of Adventure and Environmental Education for more than 30 years. This leg of her journey is about connecting more deeply with herself, others, and the wilderness. Join her for a program of connection, learning, and growing.

Credentials:

  • B.A. Ecopsychology and Outdoor Education from Prescott College, AZ

  • M.Ed. Adventure Education Plymouth State University, NH

  • Registered Maine Recreational Guide

  • National Registered EMT

  • SOLO Wilderness First Aid and Wilderness First Responder Instructor

  • Leave No Trace Master Educator

Owner and Educator

Meet my new little dog, Maple who is the newest member of the Wood Thrush Wilderness team. She came to me during Maple Sugar season and got her name while we were tapping trees. Mape loves to hike and explorer but truly loves to canoe and be on the water. She is originally from the south where she had a hard and difficult life. As a rescue dog she gets scared but has a HUGE heart. Moving to Maine was the best decision she made and she loves her Jes. She is very excited to help show you the way to connect deeper with the wilderness. Start off with getting closer to the ground, wetting your nose and sniff.

Skills:

  • Loves to meet new people and dogs

  • Likes to take off on her own and explorer - part Beagle

  • Crazy about chasing squirrels and occasionally catching a chipmunk

  • Knows a few tricks and good at catching treats

Maple “ Sweet Maple”

Maggie D.O.G.

9/6/2010-8/14/2024 RIP

At 13, this little dog loved a good adventure! She would lead the pack to show you all the good trails. She loved hiking and exploring. She loved the snow. She loved to roll around in the snow and even loves downhill sledding. She is missed every day!
Skills:

  • Understands English vocabulary

  • Communicates through moans, barks, facial expressions and tail wagging

  • Incredible Tracker

    • Excellent seeker especially in “Hide and Go Seek”

  • Good at catching treats