News Release
News Release Date: August 26, 2026
Contact:
e-mail us
VALENTINE, Neb. — The National Park Service has selected Chris Mather as the next superintendent of Niobrara National Scenic River. He will assume the role in mid-September 2026. The position reports to the Missouri National Recreational River Superintendent.
"Chris’ experience and collaborative approach to management make him and excellent choice to lead Niobrara National Scenic River,” said Missouri National Recreational River superintendent David Thomson. “His commitment to developing and sustaining strong partnerships to protect the river and preserve the natural and cultural resources will be a tremendous asset.”
Mather has served with the National Park Service for 16 years. He began his career at Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, working in museum collections and facility maintenance. He later served as a museum registrar at Yellowstone National Park and as cultural resource manager at Fort Laramie National Historic Site. In 2023, Mather was selected as the first permanent site manager at Amache National Historic Site in Colorado, where he helped lead the site through formal establishment as a new unit of the national park service and developed strong partnerships with the local community and park partners.
“I am honored to join the Niobrara team and am inspired by the dedication of its staff, partners, and community members,” said Superintendent Chris Mather. “By building on these strong relationships, we will continue working together to care for the Niobrara and sustain the connections among the river and the communities whose history and heritage are closely tied to this special place.”
Mather earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology with a minor in history from University of Idaho and a master’s degree in American history and government from Ashland University. He looks forward to exploring the Niobrara River with his wife and their two dogs.
Last updated: September 16, 2026