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January 11, 2023
Carmelita Nelson
Water Conservation Consultant, Ecological and Water Resources Division, Central Office, St Paul
After 35 years of service with the DNR, Carmelita McGurk Nelson is retiring on February 2
Brief rundown of her career
In 1981, Carmelita began her career in conservation with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources as a naturalist at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell, Indiana. She worked there until 1985. Then she went to the University of Michigan for her graduate degree.
From 1987 to 2023, Carmelita has worked for Minnesota DNR in the following capacities:
- Regional Information Officer, Bureau of Information and Education, New Ulm, 1987-1988: In her first job with the Minnesota DNR, Carmelita administered public relations programs in 27 counties.
- Information Officer II, Division of Parks & Recreation, St Paul, 1988-1990: Carmelita directed statewide public relations for 64 state parks, developed park publications, presented seminars, and was the media contact.
- Assistant Park Manager, Wild River State Park, Center City, 1990-1994: Carmelita supervised 16 employees in this 7,000-acre park and provided safety and security for over 160,000 visitors.
- Senior Park Planner, Division of Parks & Recreation, St Paul, 1994-2006: Carmelita coordinated public workshops, researched, wrote, mapped, and edited 80-100 page management plans for State Parks.
- Roadsides for Wildlife Coordinator, Fish and Wildlife Division, St Paul, 2006-2011: Carmelita coordinated this statewide program to enhance habitat along roadsides for grassland birds and small animals. She provided a cost share program for it and created posters, brochures and road signs.
- Prairie Grassland Coordinator, Fish and Wildlife Division, St Paul, 2011-2015: Carmelita coordinated this statewide prairie program to enhance Minnesota grasslands through implementation of conservation grazing and developing pollinator best management practices.
- Water Conservation Consultant, Ecological and Water Resources Division, St Paul, 2015 - Feb. 2, 2023: In her current position,Carmelita developed the state’s first water conservation program including a reporting system so that water conservation is promoted and implemented in Minnesota. She coordinates the well interference program and has been a key player in drought planning and response. She also works with cities, DNR staff and other partners to develop local water supply plans.
Plans for the future
Carmelita and her husband, Gary, are heading to Spain in mid-March 2023 to visit their children who are teaching in Seville and Estepona.
Join us in celebrating Carmelita's retirement!
Thursday, February 2, 2023
COFFEE & A LITTLE SOMETHING TO EAT PARTY
Minnesota DNR Lobby Gallery
500 Lafayette Rd, St Paul, MN
2:00 – 3:00 PM
Back in the day...Carmelita at work in Wild River State Park, circa 1990.
Send well wishes
Please send Carmelita your congratulations on her retirement and outstanding career.
Send email to:
carmelitamnelson@gmail.com
Send cards by US Mail to:
Carmelita Nelson
13550 Andrews Ave., Lindstrom, MN 55045
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