- Licensed New Hampshire Guide
- Coast Guard 6-Pack Captain
- Certified Master Outdoorsman
- NH Certified Wildlife Control Operator, Level 2
- Certified First Aid/CPR/AED & Wilderness First Aid
- USCCA Certified Firearms Instructor
Steve Sanborn
Owner
Steve grew up in Alton, N.H., with a lifelong passion for the outdoors. With over 45 years in the automotive industry—including 23 years as a high school educator specializing in drivability diagnostics—Steve has combined his expertise in education with his love for nature.
A U.S. Army Combat Engineer veteran, Steve has also pursued diverse roles in private security, residential HVAC, and more, always seeking to learn and grow. Despite his many endeavors, the outdoors has remained his greatest joy, from hunting and hiking to chasing wild brook trout.
As the owner of the New Hampshire Outdoor Learning Center, Steve channels his passion for teaching and the outdoors to help others safely enjoy and conserve nature for future generations. With the support of his wife, Toni, he continues to live his dream of blending education, adventure, and conservation.
Dr. Rick Van de Poll
Instructor
Dr. Rick Van de Poll is a seasoned botanist and mycologist with decades of experience in wildcrafting and preparing edible and medicinal plants and fungi. Since 1977, he has shared his expertise with students of all ages, teaching courses that inspire a deep connection to nature. A co-founder of two mushroom clubs in New Hampshire, Rick has also run a small herbal apothecary with his wife in Sullivan, where natural harvesting remains an integral part of their daily lives.
Certifications and Partnerships
- International Federation of Fly Fishers Casting Instructor (FFF)
- Licensed NH Guide
- Certified NH Fish and Game Instructor
- Member of trout Unlimited
- Frequent presenter for L.L. Bean, Kittery Trading Post, and Marlboro Fly Fishing Show
John McKernan
John McKernan brings over 50 years of outdoor and teaching experience to the NH Outdoor Learning Center. A lifelong educator and coach in the Dover public school system, John founded the innovative “Outdoor Pursuits Program,” which introduced students to rock climbing, archery, and fly fishing. His fly fishing expertise spans 14 states, including remote waters in Maine and Alaska, making him a seasoned guide and passionate advocate for outdoor education.
NHOLC Fly Fishing and Casting Instructor
Wes Reed
Upland Bird and Waterfowl Dog Trainer and Instructor
Wes developed a love for the outdoors from his father, a conservation officer in the 1950s, and a passion for dogs from his mother, who raised collies during his childhood. After being introduced to duck hunting by a friend, Wes recognized the need for a well-trained retriever. This inspired him to create Rise and Shine Retrievers, a family business dedicated to breeding Labrador and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, with puppies placed all over the U.S. He also trains owners who share his enthusiasm for working dogs, many of whom participate in hunt tests or enjoy field and marsh hunts across New England.
An avid upland bird and waterfowl hunter, Wes has pursued game from Quebec to Maine to Connecticut. His dogs hunt year-round through participation in AKC, HRC, NAHRA, and other hunt test programs, with accolades earned under judges from 14 states and Canada.
Wes loves sharing his expertise through retrieving demonstrations at NH Fish & Game, Ducks Unlimited events, and sportsman’s clubs throughout New England.
- Past HRC judge, all levels
- Past North American Hunting Retriever Association (NAHRA) judge, all levels
- Board member, Wildlife Heritage Foundation of NH