Mark’s connection with Placer County began at his Grandparents’ property in Ophir, which they purchased in 1924. With an Architecture degree from San Luis Obispo and study in Copenhagen, Mark started work at Placer County in 1993. Eight years later, Mark moved his family to Ophir, where they reside today. When not caring for the rural family property, they seek new adventures with their travel trailer.
In Mark’s 28 year career at the County, he started working with Placer Land Trust in the early 2000’s. He led acquisitions resulting in development of Hidden Falls Regional Park, and he partnered with PLT on its acquisition of neighboring properties. In his later work with the Parks Division, Mark had responsibility for permitting, development and maintenance of recreational properties countywide.
With his deep appreciation of the history and natural beauty of our region, Mark is surprised by the number of people who are unaware of PLT, or have never visited Hidden Falls. Mark is interested in finding ways to reach them and encourage enjoyment of our natural landscape. Raising awareness of our environment also drives his photographic interests, including volunteerism at the Viewpoint Photographic Art Center in Sacramento.
“I believe it’s important to connect people with the natural landscape, to foster consideration of their effect on our world. Physical fitness, social interaction, and appreciation of beauty develop when visiting conserved lands. Bringing young people to these properties for play and learning experiences, creates a durable lifelong understanding of our environment.”
