Meet SCD Board Chair Randy James
Rooted in Conservation: A Conversation with SCD Board Chair Randy James
From growing up in South Spokane County to helping guide the future of Spokane Conservation District, Board Chair Randy James has spent years championing conservation, stewardship, and community resilience across the region.
A lifelong outdoorsman with roots in hunting, fishing, camping, and agriculture, Randy brings both practical experience and deep passion to Spokane Conservation District’s mission.
We sat down with Randy to talk about conservation, planting trees, the impact of SCD programs, and what excites him most about the future of the organization.
About Randy James
Randy James serves as Board Chair for Spokane Conservation District. Randy has long been connected to the region’s natural resources through agriculture, hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. A respected science educator, Randy spent decades at North Central High School, where he founded and led the school's prestigious Institute of Science and Technology. His passion for education, stewardship, and community leadership helps guide Spokane Conservation District's long-term vision for conservation and lasting impact across Spokane County.
What inspired you to get involved with SCD?
[Getting involved at the SCD was] the closest thing to becoming a pig farmer. I grew up in South Spokane County, and I have roots in hunting, fishing, and camping, but I originally wanted to be a pig farmer. I am a conservationist at heart and a preservationist when preservation is possible.
What is an SCD project you're particularly proud of?
There are so many [SCD projects that I am proud of]. Over 170+ miles of streams and fish habitat have been reopened. The annual tree sale and Willow Warriors have planted so many trees. SRF (Sate Revolving Fund) loans have made agricultural practices more sustainable. We’ve made a difference—we do amazing things.
What is your primary focus this year as a board member?
Taking care of long-term programs that are aligned with our vision [is my primary focus]. Bearing fiscal responsibility in mind, we also want to keep ourselves open to the next great opportunity.
What are your favorite ways for Spokanites to get involved in SCD's work or conservation at large?
The best time to plant a tree is now—they take forever to grow. The best way to take part in conservation is to take care of our trees. We need trees. Plant a tree on your property today. Plant a tree every year. While we are the problem, we are also part of the conservation solution.
What do you enjoy the most about serving on the SCD board?
I love people. I love their stories. I love hearing what we are doing—the passion is contagious. All our programs are synergistic in the conservation of natural resources, and our impact is not just regional—its national.
What are you most excited about for the future of SCD?
You could be excited about our campus. You could be very excited about the monies going into our programs. [For myself,] I think it’s watching that tree be planted. I am excited that we continue to grow… we didn’t stay stagnant. We have continued to grow. You have to take care of the tree early on, but a forest will take care of itself. Our good work will continue to grow for a lifetime.
