Dan Cleaver is the principal consultant and founder of Subtropic Environmental, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience in ecological restoration and bush regeneration to projects across the Northern Rivers region.

With a strong foundation in both theoretical ecology and practical land management, Dan holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science and a Diploma of Conservation and Land Management. This combination of formal education and extensive fieldwork has shaped his approach to restoration—one that balances scientific rigour with the realities of working in diverse landscapes and complex ecosystems.

Dan established Subtropic Environmental to fill a local need for skilled, science-informed ecological restoration services delivered with integrity and attention to detail. His work is guided by a deep respect for natural processes and a commitment to achieving outcomes that are not only ecologically sound but also practical and enduring.

As an AABR-certified bush regenerator, Dan operates in alignment with the standards and principles of the Australian Association of Bush Regenerators, ensuring that all work meets industry best practice. His approach centres on Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR), strategic native planting, and adaptive management techniques tailored to the unique conditions of each site.

Over the years, Dan has worked with a broad range of clients and stakeholders—from individual landholders and community groups to local councils and environmental organisations. This diversity of experience has given him a nuanced understanding of how to navigate different project requirements, budgets, and ecological challenges while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and long-term outcomes.

Dan’s commitment to continuous learning keeps him engaged with current ecological research and emerging restoration techniques. He believes that effective restoration requires both skilled fieldwork and a willingness to adapt based on new information, site conditions, and ecological feedback.

At the heart of Dan’s work is a genuine care for the landscapes of the Northern Rivers and the communities that depend on them. Whether managing invasive weeds, revegetating degraded land, or developing site-specific restoration plans, Dan approaches each project with professionalism, transparency, and a long-term vision for healthy, resilient ecosystems.