Will Richmond fought hard for the Eastern Sierra throughout his influential law career and throughout his time volunteering on ESLT’s Board of Directors and on our Lands Committee, which provides expert vetting and guidance. Through his deep involvement in our organization, he gave us crucial legal expertise, historical understanding, and strategic direction. Will passed away in February of this year, and we will always remember him as a dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate advocate for our land conservation goals.

Will first moved to the Eastern Sierra in 2003, serving as the district attorney for Alpine County and simultaneously trying cases throughout California as a circuit environmental prosecutor. Alongside the district attorney of Mono County, Will labored steadily on an unremitting battle between the Eastern Sierra and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power over the scenic Owens River Gorge. His work prompted the celebrated 2015 victory for Inyo and Mono Counties, when Los Angeles agreed to permanently provide Owens River Gorge with water to restore lost natural resources, including the historic fish population.

Throughout his career, Will never stopped cultivating his deep knowledge of the Eastern Sierra’s history and environment. He became involved in many local organizations including Mono Lake Committee, Bodie Foundation, and Rotary Clubs in multiple counties, and he continuously donated his invaluable time and expertise to Eastern Sierra Land Trust.

True to his tireless personality, Will also learned everything he could about each of ESLT’s protected lands. He would take family and friends on personal tours of our special places like Black Lake Preserve, recounting every detail of their inspiring histories and unique natural features.

Will was memorialized on March 30th, 2019 at the home he shared with his longtime partner Lysa Eldridge, on a sunny and perfect Eastern Sierra day. He has left a great impact on ESLT, and we won’t forget his perspective and his passion.

 

William A. Richmond, 1942 – 2019. Photo courtesy of Lysa Eldridge.