The People of the Land Trust: Jeff Brown

Jeff Brown enjoying the outdoors with his pup.

Jeff Brown, Truckee Donner Land Trust’s longest serving board member and past president of the board, took a unique path in getting involved with conservation in the northern Sierra.

“The first time I met Perry (Norris, co-executive director), I was working on a development project that instead ended up being the Land Trust’s Elizabethtown Meadow property,” Brown said. “I was working with the developer, but I hit it off with Perry, and really liked the way the Land Trust did things.”

A little more than 10 years later, Brown has been instrumental in many of the Land Trust’s major conservation wins.

“Jeff has been a wonderful president, leading the Land Trust through several key acquisitions with a steady hand,” said John Svahn, co-executive director of the Land Trust. “He is an innovator in his business and brings that spirit of innovation to the Land Trust.”

Brown’s professional background in real estate compliments the work of the Land Trust, providing a unique perspective and skillset.

“Our work is only growing more important with time as our area is more impacted with growth and people visiting,” Brown said. “It seems like our work is increasingly consistent with the values of the people moving here and vacationing here – what we provide is what they’re seeking, a connection with nature.”

The work of the Land Trust has very personal importance to Brown as well, both as an avid outdoor recreationist and as a father.

“To me the Land Trust’s work is where conservation and recreation come together, where we not only protect these lands but also open them to the general public – that’s a huge priority,” Brown said. “And having children really brings into focus the importance of having these lands protected forever, for all of those yet to come.”

But whether a person is an accomplished adventurer, or simply likes knowing these special places are here to stay, Brown thinks the Land Trust’s work is equally important to all.

“I think the work the Land Trust does only enhances everyone’s life regardless of what they do, whether it’s getting out on the trails or just appreciating the beauty and a clean environment,” Brown said. “We’re part of that solution, and I don’t see anyone for whom our work isn’t relevant.”

Note: This is part of a series of stories the Land Trust will tell over the coming months about the people that make our organization tick – from board members and staff members to volunteers.