By Brad Chalfant

It is with deep respect and appreciation that we wish Deschutes National Forest Supervisor John Allen a happy retirement. The Deschutes National Forest has been fortunate over the years to have a remarkable track record of attracting superb leadership (the previous two Supervisors, Sally Collins and Leslie Welden, both went on to become Deputy Chiefs of the National Forest). With John Allen carrying on that tradition, he truly set a new standard in community partnerships and innovative solutions. While the Deschutes Land Trust has long had a strong and positive relationship with the National Forest, John made partnership, engagement, and collaboration the norm, rather than the exception. At times this slowed down the process, but John’s favorite saying is that “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” It is an approach that paid dividends.

For the Land Trust, this approach was apparent through John's willingness to contribute the technical expertise of his staff to help with the herculean task of re-meandering and restoring Whychus Creek. It also meant working jointly on trail connections, wildfire prevention, and environmental education, along with projects like Skyline Forest. More recently, it's included working collaboratively to create the Deschutes Trails Coalition and build a community conservation ethic.

While John's retirement is a real loss, we have confidence that a strong track record of great Supervisors at the Deschutes National Forest (along with a truly talented and dedicated staff) means we’ll be looking for great things from the next Deschutes Supervisor as she steps into some very large leadership shoes.

John, from all of us at the Deschutes Land Trust, thank you for your leadership and vision!