Nomination Statement for Pacific Coast Region Candidate
Lori Chapin

If one could inherit a love of nature, I did… from my father.  Walks in the woods with Dad were an adventure.  Lessons in wildflower identification, foraging for scrumptious wild edibles, and my favorite, slide whistles made of willow branches – these are the most precious memories I have of him.  But none would have been possible without a path through the pines, some willows by the stream, or those ferns with roots that taste like licorice.  With this foundation I developed a deep and enduring appreciation of natural spaces coupled with a sense of responsibility to assist in the conservation and preservation of special places. Through my association with Deschutes Land Trust, I have gained greater respect for the challenges, responsibilities, and competing forces encountered in ongoing land preservation.

The typical intent behind a land trust transaction is to protect a property in perpetuity.  Perpetuity is a very long time.  Somewhere within that span, it is conceivable and likely that challenges will arise where good intentions will not translate to an adequate defense.  Careful project selection helps to avoid some of the most obvious perils faced by current (and future) land trust leaders, but a well-thought-out risk management plan is paramount to proactively navigating the less apparent “what-if” scenarios.  Regardless of the most meticulous risk assessment or aggressive mitigation plan, not all threats or litigation can be prevented.  In these instances, liability insurance is an effective way to help defend a land trust’s rights, obligations, and commitment toward permanent conservation. 

I appreciate the nomination and value the opportunity to support Terrafirma’s continued innovation in developing proactive practices for managing risk - and for guarding the important mission of land preservation and conservation when circumstances warrant.  I believe that my personal background, unique credentials, and professional experience bring a balance of passion, scrutiny, and perspective that could benefit and bolster our steadfast determination.