Nelli Williams’s approach to inspiring a love for nature for her children is simple: create positive experiences outdoors. Time in nature does not have to be challenging or intense; adrenaline does not have to be stoked. Keep it simple.

“When you have small kids, it’s hard to do long backcountry ski trips or hiking trips, so we adapted and adjusted our expectations. Our kids have developed a natural appreciation for nature.”

With babies, Nelli and her husband discovered that a high-sided driftboat made a good playpen, and a comfortable baby carrier became the most important piece of outdoor gear. Now that Mason (12) and Morgan (8) are older, the entire family enjoys the building-knowledge stage of outdoor play.

“Our kids ask lots of questions. ‘What do trout eat? Why are the baby fish only in slow water?’”

Sometimes she answers, sometimes she lets them figure it out on their own. Not only is nature where they play and learn, but Nelli has modeled to them that getting outdoors is an awesome way to recharge their batteries. “If everyone is cranky, it’s usually because we haven’t played outside in a while. It is soul filling.”

When it comes to fostering a conservation ethos, Nelli—who is the Director of Trout Unlimited Alaska—leads by example. And, while she has always had a deep love for nature and a steadfast commitment to conservation, motherhood has transformed her role as a leader and advocate.

“Motherhood makes me more motivated than ever to do the hard work of conservation. We are at a pivotal point where if we don’t change the trajectory, the outdoor spaces where so many of us spend time with family could look much different.”

Like so many of us parents, Nelli struggles with balancing parenting and working. But her desires and her dreams for her children’s future make the two priorities inseparable.

One weekend, when her two children were young enough to be unpredictable but old enough to walk on their own, Nelli packed them into her truck and drove two hours from their home in Anchorage into a valley she had been eager to explore. A tough work week and an out-of-town husband had created a deep craving for the recharge that only nature can provide.

“If I didn’t unplug, I’d end up frustrated and unable to be a present mom.”

They set up camp and enjoyed the cozy, quiet evening she had envisioned. In the oh-so-precious and fleeting pre-kids-wake-up window, Nelli took in the stunning tilt of the morning light on the steep valley and devised a well-thought-out plan to hike a nearby ridgeline that would offer spectacular views. “If well-executed, we could get some exercise, a good view, and be back in town by a birthday party that night.”