Ariel Wagner

I develop freshwater conservation initiatives at the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, leading workshops, field experiences, and community projects that advance watershed stewardship, native habitat conservation, and public engagement.

I manage projects from concept through implementation, including budgets, logistics, scheduling, volunteer coordination, partner communications, grant reporting, and evaluation. I've organized large-scale freshwater education and conservation events serving more than 600 participants.

I collaborate with nonprofits, municipalities, state agencies, schools, and community organizations on restoration and conservation work. I also lead public programs on freshwater mussels, native plants, birding, aquatic ecosystems, and watershed stewardship.

My background also includes managing greenhouse operations, native and ornamental plant production, landscape installation, museum operations, fundraising, events, staff, and volunteers. I bring practical environmental knowledge and organized, community-centered program coordination to every project.