Summary

Nick Basaraba is a conservation communicator and environmental storyteller dedicated to helping people understand and engage with the protection of rivers, fisheries, and public lands. Through journalism, digital media, and nonprofit communications, he develops accessible narratives that translate conservation science and policy into stories that resonate with supporters and outdoor communities. Basaraba uses extensive knowledge of the differences and complexities surrounding fisheries management in the Northwest to encourage connection between resource stakeholders through an emphasis on the common goal of improving watershed health. His work includes editorial writing, digital content development, and stakeholder interviews that highlight watershed protection campaigns and the cultural importance of healthy fisheries. With a background in environmental journalism and grassroots conservation communications, he brings strong writing, digital storytelling, and audience engagement skills to organizations working to grow public support for conservation.

Education

Journalism and Media Communications with minor in Global and Environmental Sustainability
Graduation: Spring 2026

Coursework and academic focus included environmental policy, conservation communications, public relations and event planning, sustainability systems, and public-interest storytelling across print publications and modern digital outlets including numerous social media platforms.

Technical Toolkit

Content & Campaign Development Donor-centered storytelling, newsletter writing, website copy, editorial, photography, copyediting
· Digital Fundraising & Analytics WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, Google Analytics, SEO optimization, digital content performance tracking
· Design & Production Adobe InDesign, Canva, Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop
· Research & Reporting Stakeholder interviews, conservation policy research, performance tracking, engagement metrics analysis

Professional Experience

Pacific Rivers 2024-Current

Support grassroots conservation engagement and member communications for a regional watershed protection nonprofit.

· Write and edit articles for Free Flow, the organization’s member magazine, highlighting conservation campaigns, legislative milestones, and watershed restoration efforts

· Copyedit multiple publication drafts to ensure clarity, consistency, and accessible storytelling across organizational communications

· Photographed and documented organizational events, creating visual assets that support storytelling and outreach efforts

· Interviewed tribal leaders, conservation partners, and policy experts to develop stories highlighting watershed protection campaigns, including advocacy efforts opposing the Chehalis River dam

· Developed an interactive digital platform promoting Oregon watershed protections under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and River Democracy Act, helping translate complex conservation policy into accessible online content

· Contribute narrative content that translates conservation science and policy into engaging stories for supporters and the broader public

Freelance Writer and Photographer 2019-Current

Produce conservation-focused journalism and digital content designed to engage outdoor and environmental audiences.

· Collaborated with editors at The Fly Fish Journal and The Drake to develop long-form print and digital features centered on conservation, public lands, and fisheries protection

· Researched complex environmental and policy issues—including the designation of the Sáttítla National Monument—and crafted compelling narratives grounded in stakeholder interviews

· Developed SEO-driven blog content for fly fishing lodges and outdoor tourism companies to increase audience acquisition, web traffic, and user engagement

· Analyzed website engagement metrics using Google Analytics to evaluate content performance and improve digital reach

· Delivered mission-aligned content under tight editorial deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and storytelling quality

Logistics Manager, Lodge at 58* North, King Salmon, Alaska 2022-2023, 2025

Collaborated in a high-accountability, team-based hospitality environment serving international outdoor recreation guests.

· Coordinated closely with hospitality staff to ensure seamless guest experiences, reflecting collaborative and proactive team engagement

· Adapted quickly to shifting logistics and guest needs, maintaining accuracy and professionalism in high-responsibility situations