Boots in the Dirt
Management
About James
James combines the field-tested experience of an Air Force NCO with a grounded business education.
With a strong background in operations, logistics, and management, he helps tie the back-end functions of the business together seamlessly.
When not putting his degree or hands to work at Karner Blue, James can be found reading, working out at Littleton Crossfit, or practicing his photography.
Experience
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US Air Force: 8 years Active Duty in Law Enforcement and Security Operations.
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Furman University: BLA, Accounting Minor Environmental Studies.
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Karner Blue Landscaping: Lifelong mower and landscaping lover turned full-service pro.
Abilities
Reliable project logistics, practical native layout, and straightforward, honest client communication.
Operations
Operations Advisor and Chief Sounding Board
Alyssa MacLeod, DPT, LMT
About Alyssa
With a Master’s in Entomology from McGill and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Plymouth State, Alyssa keeps our ecosystems in check and crew firing on all cylinders – with proper strength, lifting, and hydration tactics.
Whether analyzing plant-bug ecosystems, helping navigate complex client choices, or teaching safe body mechanics at the jobsite, she bridges the gaps beteween science and strategy perfectly.
In her time off, Alyssa can be found running trails in the White Mountains, baking sourdough, or basking in the outdoors.
Experience
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McGill University: M.Sc. in Entomology. Resident insect-plants ecologist.
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Crew Safety Advisor: Keeping our field team safe with proper lifting mechanics, field endurance, and hydration protocols.
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White Mountains Athlete: Trails racer logging 1,000+ miles a year.
Abilities
Plant & insect ecology, jobsite body mechanics, and back-end business relationship management.
Horticulture and Design
Horticulturist and Design Lead
Nellie Nivala
About Nellie
From mapping historic estates to raising butterflies in research labs and tending olive groves in Italy, Nellie brings a world of green expertise to our crew.
Our resident plant expert pairs smart, functional design with a genuine passion for native New Hampshire landscapes.
Nellie joins our team mid-July, 2026, and we’re excited to bring her on!
Experience
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Native Habitat Specialist: Managed monarch butterfly research labs and designed native pollinator habitats.
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Kirkwood Community College: AAS, Horticulture and Landscape Design.
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Global Green Thumb: Cultivated botanical collections from Martha’s Vineyard to Europe.
Abilities
Native plant selection, ecosystem restoration, and functional, beautiful landscape design.
Veteran Owned
Small Business
Former SSgt (E5), USAF
3P071 Security Forces
2006-2014
Thank you for your support!
