James Waters, 47, is a devoted father of two and avid outdoorsman. Born in rural Virginia, he now resides in western North Carolina with his wife and children on their hundred acre farm. They practice sustainable forestry, ethical wildlife management, and regenerative farming, as well as raise heritage breed Scottish Highland cattle. James enjoys running his sawmill, hunting, horseback riding and mentoring others in his many fields of expertise. He is especially passionate about educating and empowering the youth in ways that positively impact their lives and the future of our world. As a proficient hunter, carpenter, mill operator, cattleman, and horseman among other things, he and Eustace have built a friendship based on mutual respect and interests. To learn more about James, click here.

Molo

Girls Camps Director

This year's Girls Camp Director joins us with a background in Environmental Education. Molo has held several positions at Turtle Island over the last few years including Girls Camp Medic, Instructor, Kitchen Manager, and more. With a B.S. in Earth & Environmental Science from UNCC. She is an NC native that has worked with other environmental nonprofits throughout the east coast. She currently manages the Education Department for a riverkeeper organization and enjoys spending her available time hiking, foraging, and working and volunteering at Turtle Island Preserve.

Spencer with his daughter, Iris

Laura

Nature-Based Forest School Director

Laura Abraham is our new unique and nature-based homeschool director at Turtle Island Preserve, The program is focused on Forest School education for children aged 5-17. It focuses on cultivating life skills such as gardening, cooking, and bushcraft. Learning about trees, herbs, plants, mushrooms, flowers, insects, and birds and their involvement in their ecosystems, their purpose, and learning how to identify species. Fostering a deep connection to the natural world of ecology and biology.

The program combines hands-on activities, art, discussions, and outdoor adventures, creating a holistic and immersive learning experience. Students spend part of their day engaged in lively discussions and activities with multiple instructors, while the other part involves hiking and activities related to the lessons, ensuring a well-rounded experience within small groups.

Laura is a strong believer that the ability to sight from life experiences, actively seek knowledge, and apply lessons learned is crucial for personal development. Acquiring new skills and understanding contributes to a well-rounded and adaptable individual. It's not only the destination but also the process of learning itself. This can lead to a more enriched and fulfilling life, as each new piece or skill gained contributes to ones overall understanding and capability.

Currently serving as a Natural Art Instructor with LPCCA (Lost Province Cultural Center) in Lansing, North Carolina, Laura's journey in education began as an art teacher in California at a Grass Valley Charter School teaching first grade. Her passion for integrating art and nature into the learning process emerged early in her career.

Beyond her roles, Laura is a wife and mother to two young girls and an active contributor to the Lansing community. She volunteers with GLAD (Greater Lansing Area Development) and actively participates in the beautification committee, BROC, and the BROC fan club, showcasing her dedication to community development.

Laura is a local artist, muralist, and business owner as a floral designer with CHOP+STEM. Her commitment extends to gardening, and animal husbandry on their family homestead. Actively practicing permaculture principles that emphasize self-reliance, community, and sustainability. Laura's avid gardening skills reflect her passion for cultivating a harmonious relationship with the environment.

In envisioning a learning environment where students develop essential life skills rooted in nature, Laura is dedicated to instilling a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. As the Nature-Based Homeschool Director at Turtle Island Preserve, she is fostering a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom and into the heart of nature. Laura's passion is focused on nurturing and preparing the next generation through hands-on, nature-based experiences at Turtle Island.

Jenny

Nacho Mama’s Kitchen Manager

The saying 'The kitchen is the heart of the home' has never been truer than at Turtle Island Preserve. In Nacho Mama’s Kitchen, a haven of warmth and respite, we nourish both your belly and heart, refreshing and sustaining you during your adventures at the Preserve. Here, we gather to enjoy healthy food made from meticulously selected ingredients, prepared over wood-burning stoves, while sharing conversation, stories, and laughter at our family-style tables.

Our kitchen manager, Jenny Waters, holds a Bachelor's Degree in Alternative Medicine and loves incorporating her passion for holistic health and extensive knowledge of nutrition into the meals served at Turtle Island. All dietary allergies and preferences are honored with care and consideration in Nacho Mama’s Kitchen.

Jenny believes in the healing power of 'breaking bread' and has witnessed beautiful moments where the act of sharing a meal becomes a catalyst for connection, unity, and the creation of enduring memories. In Nacho Mama’s Kitchen, every meal is infused with intention, turning each dining experience into a celebration of nourishment and community.