Today, the Land Trust of Napa County announced that Doug Parker, its CEO, is planning to retire after 13 years of dedicated service. Under his exceptional leadership, the organization has achieved significant milestones in land conservation and established a strong foundation for future impact.
“On behalf of the Land Trust board and staff, we extend immense gratitude for the extraordinary work that Doug has contributed to our organization,” said Robin Baggett, Chair of the Land Trust of Napa County Board. “His leadership and commitment have been instrumental in advancing our mission to protect Napa’s iconic landscapes and ensure the perpetual care of our protected lands. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
A Legacy of Conservation
Doug Parker has been involved in conservation for 35 years, including 13 years here at the Land Trust of Napa County. His leadership in Napa has led to significant organizational and financial growth for the Land Trust and a great deal of lasting conservation. Under his guidance, the Land Trust permanently protected over 43,000 acres of Napa’s vital landscapes, ensuring that forests, watersheds, agricultural lands, wildflower meadows, and wildlife corridors across our region will be protected for generations to come.
Under Parker’s leadership, the Land Trust completed hallmark conservation deals, including the 7,260-acre Montesol easement protecting lands around Mount St. Helena, 14,200 contiguous acres of ranchland easements near Lake Berryessa, and seven new permanent preserves of 1,000 acres or more, including the acquisition of the 2,300-acre Walt Ranch two years ago.
“It has been an incredible privilege to lead the Land Trust of Napa County,” said Doug Parker. “I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together – protecting vital landscapes, building a resilient organization, and nurturing strong partnerships. I will leave confident that the Land Trust is in excellent hands with a capable board and staff, and I am certain that the next leader will be in a great position to expand our impact and secure Napa’s critical lands and natural heritage for generations to come.”
Prior to joining the Land Trust, Doug held executive roles in various leading national conservation organizations, including The Nature Conservancy and the National Audubon Society. This blend of conservation expertise and experience helped the Land Trust of Napa County to significantly increase its capacity and take on a growing number of large-scale land conservation projects. Doug will support the search for his successor as a thought partner and remain a trusted advisor to the incoming CEO to ensure a smooth and seamless leadership transition.
Opportunity for a New Strategic Conservation Leader
With Doug’s departure, the Land Trust of Napa County now seeks a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer. This is an exceptional opportunity to steward a successful organization that is deeply committed to protecting Napa’s unique natural heritage.
The new CEO will be responsible for leading a dedicated team of staff and board members who are passionate about permanently protecting Napa County’s land, water, wildlife, and natural resources for future generations. The ideal candidate will foster internal cohesion, continue to build key relationships with external partners, donors, and landowners, and drive conservation momentum and impact.
“We look forward to a new leader picking up where Doug leaves off and continuing to steer us forward,” added Mike Fisher, Board Vice Chair and Treasurer, and incoming Board Chair. “This includes enhancing our conservation efforts by steering the teams advancing land acquisition as well as our active land management efforts, and securing the financial resources needed to support both initiatives.”
The Land Trust of Napa County is pleased to partner with Potrero Group, a nonprofit consulting firm that supports innovative leaders and organizations making a difference in the world through strategic planning, facilitation, organizational development, and board and executive search services.
For more information about the position and how to apply, please visit potrerogroup.com/ltnc.
Interested candidates should apply by August 18, 2025, for priority consideration. To share candidate recommendations or for additional information, please contact Jena Kuznik, Senior Consultant, Potrero Group at jkuznik@potrerogroup.com.
