(TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore.)—Four volunteers were recognized for their efforts to steward recreational opportunities across Oregon state forests through the first Forest Champions Volunteer Award. The award, sponsored by the State Forests Trust of Oregon, was proudly presented to Richard Chapman, Nathan Frechen, Nelson Kline and Tom Brauner.
“Each of this year’s honorees reflects the heart of volunteerism and the spirit of Oregon’s working forests,” said Kelly Lau, executive director of the State Forests Trust of Oregon. “Their dedication ensures that trails remain safe, available, and inspiring for all who explore, enjoy and appreciate time spent on these public lands.”
Each year volunteers contribute more than 15,000 hours to help Oregon Department of Forestry’s Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program maintain and improve the state forests’ trail systems, camping areas, and other recreational facilities. Additionally, many of the educational and interpretation programs hosted at the Tillamook Forest Center also rely heavily on volunteers.
“Our volunteers are amazing,” said Joe Offer, ODF’s Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program Manager. “They are out in the forests in all kinds of weather doing hard, physical work, so all Oregonians can enjoy our state forests safely. Our small number of ODF recreational staff couldn’t keep the more than 700 miles of hiking, biking, off-road vehicle and equestrian trails open without their help. We greatly appreciate their dedication and commitment to everything that makes our state forests so special.”
Here are the 2025 Forest Champions:
Richard Chapman
The Trust partnered with the Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association (OMRA) to create the Lyon Payne Trail Volunteer of the Year Award in memory of longtime OMRA member Lyon Payne. Known for his quiet, steadfast dedication to trail maintenance, Lyon passed away in 2022 after years of working behind the scenes to keep state forests trails open for all. Richard, who worked closely with Lyon, has carried on that legacy without missing a beat. From maintaining OMRA’s tools to covering countless hidden costs out of pocket, Richard’s service reflects a humble, hands-on approach that puts others and state forest trails first. Without seeking recognition, he has ensured that ODF’s trail network continues to thrive. The award honors both Lyon’s enduring impact and Richard’s commitment to carrying the torch.
Nathan Frechen
A leading volunteer with the Northwest Trail Alliance (NWTA), Nathan contributes over 150 hours annually, organizing and leading large volunteer crews in trail restoration and maintenance. His ability to mobilize teams of 30–50 people has made a measurable difference in the health of the Tillamook State Forest non-motorized trail system. But Nathan’s influence goes far beyond the worksite. His inclusive leadership style has helped cultivate a broader network of volunteers and partners dedicated to equitable outdoor access and long-term stewardship. Through his passion, organization, and generosity of spirit, Nathan is helping ensure that ODF’s trails remain welcoming and sustainable for future generations.
Nelson Kline and Tom Brauner
Volunteers with Trailkeepers of Oregon (TKO), Tom and Nelson have made extraordinary efforts to restore the Shellburg Falls Trail system in the Santiam State Forest. Severely damaged by the 2020 Labor Day fires, the Shellburg network has become a model of grassroots restoration thanks to their leadership.
Nelson, who began volunteering with TKO in 2019, has led 47 trail parties with volunteers who have contributed over 1,600 hours. Tom joined TKO in 2022 and has since logged over 2,000 hours. His contributions include leading crews, designing bridges and box steps, and coordinating closely with the Oregon Department of Forestry. Together, Nelson and Tom oversaw the construction of two new 30-foot bridges—critical to safely reopening the area. This duo continues to attract new volunteers, especially from the Salem area, and they remain committed to ongoing restoration work as winter storms and lingering fire damage continue to affect the Santiam.
For more information on volunteering in Oregon’s State Forest see the Trust’s Get Involved webpage and the ODF volunteer page