The Story Behind the Stewardship
The scale of our environmental challenges has outpaced the traditional “expert-only” model of conservation.
Every journey has a source. For David, the journey toward
Headwaters & Marine Stewards began with a realization that the
environmental challenges we face aren’t just scientific—they’re educational.
Why the NH Seacoast?
Living and working in the Portsmouth and Seacoast region, David recognized that our local economy, our history, and our future are all tied to the water. From the trickling headwaters of our inland streams to the bustling marine life of the Atlantic, these systems are the lifeblood of our community.
David founded HMS to ensure that this lifeblood remains healthy. By combining his expertise in research and communication with a deep passion for the natural world, he’s created a platform that turns neighbors into guardians.
“I believe that when we bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and local action, we create a community that doesn’t just survive—it thrives. We’re all stewards of the water that connects us.” — David Miller
This leadership team represents a unique intersection of scientific rigor, operational excellence, and community mobilization. By combining David’s geological and educational expertise, Kate’s strategic partnership skills and funding experience, and Steve’s logistical mastery and outdoor expertise, HMS is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between mountain headwaters and marine health.
Ready to make waves?
Visit our volunteer page to find where your passion meets our mission.
Kate Beckett
Chairman of the Board
Kate’s a master Strategic Consortia Builder and grant writer with a remarkable 30-year track record of 100% success across tech, science, and defense sectors. A Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award winner, she excels at uniting businesses and stakeholders to drive community-advancing initiatives and secure the resources needed to scale them.
Steve Huebner
Charter Board Member
An expert New Hampshire outdoor enthusiast, Steve has an intimate knowledge of the state’s waterways. He spent years as a state Cartographer developing GPS mapping systems, followed by two decades leading complex logistics at Amadeus.
Through his volunteer work with conservation studies and river cleanups, Steve ensures all HMS projects are technically precise and field-ready. Steve also brings a disciplined, mission-focused perspective to the group as a military veteran.
David Miller
Founder
Passionate educator leveraging a background in geology and science education to develop citizen science initiatives and environmental curricula for all ages. David holds an M.A. in Geoscience and is focused on scaling community-driven sustainability solutions from “ridge to reef”. [•••]