Nomination Statement for Western-at-Large Candidate Derek Schaefer

I am honored to be nominated for election to the Terrafirma Members Committee representing the Western at Large region.  As my experiences with an accredited land trust of 37 years in NW Wyoming continue to grow, I am coming to understand the importance of land trust communication on many levels. Therefore, I envision working with Terrafirma and its members as a way to help foster communication, understanding, and oversight for those land trusts that look to Terrafirma as an asset in ensuring that their mission continues to be fulfilled.

In the Western Region in particular, my land trust and other land trusts have and will continue to experience challenges - as well as opportunities.  As my direct experiences with, and utilizing the asset of, Terrafirma over the years have been positive, I see my role on the membership committee as a way to translate those positive experiences by becoming a resource who will bridge and assist with concerns and challenges that land trust may have with easement holders and their communities.  By being this resource I hope to both continue growing in my understanding of land trusts’ communication and represent the interests of Terrafirma members.