The Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust on Tuesday announced the appointment of Nicholas Wildman as its next executive director.

Wildman will succeed Dexter Mead, who is retiring from the position after 18 years. 

He will officially take over on July 18.

“Nick Wildman opens a new chapter in the 50-year story of DNRT’s effort to preserve and protect Dartmouth’s natural resources forever’” said DNRT Board President Andrew Mellgard. “He brings a passionate commitment to DNRT’s mission and the important connection between land and people. He and his wife have raised their children hiking the trails of Destruction Brook Woods and the Ridge Hill Reserve, and he regularly runs our trails.”

The DNRT said that Wildman has an extensive background in conservation.

Wildman, a New Bedford resident, currently serves as the dam removal practice lead for the state Department of Fish and Game under the Division of Ecological Restoration.

In that role, he was the lead on two dozen dam removal projects across Massachusetts., working with landowners, farmers, local governments, conservation groups and other state agencies to achieve a vision for restoring rivers, streams and wetlands. 

Wildman also represented the DER on the Narragansett Bay Estuary Project’s Steering Committee from 2014 to 2021, including three years as vice chair.

He also has a graduate degree in environmental management from Duke University and an undergraduate degree from the University of Maine at Machias.

“His work in planning complex projects and building and nurturing diverse partnerships will serve DNRT well,” Mellgard said.