Rich Klein Announces Resignation from Rubicon Trail Foundation Board
Placerville, CA. December 21, 2025
The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF) announces that effective December 2, 2025, Richard C. Klein II has resigned from his position as a member of the Board of Directors.
Klein has been a strong supporter of the Rubicon Trail and its long-term preservation, and he emphasized that his decision reflects a need to realign his professional commitments. With several new opportunities on the horizon, Klein determined he would be unable to dedicate the level of time and focus he believes is necessary to serve effectively in a board leadership role.
“I continue to fully support the mission and goals of the Rubicon Trail Foundation,” Klein said. “However, board service requires a significant commitment, and I feel it is important to step aside when I cannot contribute at the level the organization deserves.”
The Rubicon Trail Foundation thanks Richard Klein for his service and dedication and wishes him success in his future endeavors.
For more information about the Rubicon Trail Foundation and its mission, please visit: RubiconTrailfoundation.org
El Dorado County, CA – October 29, 2025 – The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF) is proud to honor two extraordinary leaders with the prestigious Rock Award at its annual Black Tie & Boots Gala on March 14, 2026. This year’s recipients, former El Dorado County Sheriff John D’Agostini and the late RTF Director Jeff Nilluka (posthumous), exemplify unwavering dedication to preserving and protecting the iconic Rubicon Trail.
John D’Agostini: A Sheriff’s Legacy of Partnership and Protection
John D’Agostini, who served as Sheriff of El Dorado County for three terms from 2011 to 2022, transformed law enforcement on the Rubicon Trail through proactive leadership and collaboration. Within his first 30 days in office, Sheriff D’Agostini reached out to RTF to understand trail needs, implementing nearly all suggested reforms. The following season saw dramatic improvements: a permanent Rubicon Deputy was assigned, community policing became the standard, deputies remained on-trail overnight, and personnel actively participated in community events.
Sheriff D’Agostini forged a lasting partnership with the Rubicon Trail Partnership, directing Sergeant Bryan Brown to establish the Spider Lake substation, placing deputies at the heart of the El Dorado County section of the trail. His efforts directly addressed two conditions of the California Water Board’s 2009 Cleanup and Abatement Order, playing a pivotal role in keeping the trail open.
He also stood firm against heavy-handed Forest Service enforcement, advocating for fair policing on the trail and throughout the county, during two major incidents: the tragic death of Rachel Gray at the 60th Jeepers Jamboree and the 2014 helicopter crash at Buck Island during the 62nd Jamboree. Sheriff D’Agostini’s leadership ensured safety and continuity. He personally flew into Rubicon Springs after the Gray incident, staying two days to build critical relationships, and dedicated extensive resources post-crash to maintain public safety and trail access.
Jeff Nilluka: A Posthumous Tribute to a Trail Champion
The late Jeff Nilluka, a longtime RTF Director, is honored posthumously for his transformative leadership of Cantina For The Con. After the event transitioned from This Dysfunctional Organization (TDO) to RTF, Jeff’s stewardship raised over one hundred thousand dollars, and those funds enabled the RTF to purchase 316 acres on the Rubicon Trail from Mark and Patti Smith in 2010, securing RTF’s vital legal standing on the trail, and opening new wheeling and camping to the public in 2016. Jeff passed away suddenly in 2015, just days after the Black Tie & Boots Gala. His legacy endures through his family, who continue to volunteer and champion for the Rubicon Trail. “John and Jeff represent the heart of the Rubicon community: selfless, visionary, and deeply committed,” said RTF President Alan Johnson. “Their contributions have safeguarded the trail for generations.”
The Black Tie & Boots Gala, held annually to celebrate trail stewards and raise funds for RTF’s conservation efforts, will take place on March 14, 2026, at the Marriott in Rancho Cordova. Proceeds support trail maintenance, education, and advocacy. Click here for more information on attendance.
About the Rubicon Trail Foundation
The Rubicon Trail Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the Rubicon Trail through responsible recreation, education, and conservation. Learn more at rubicontrail.org.
Alan Johnson, President
Rubicon Trail Foundation Pr*******@********************on.org
With bittersweet emotions, we announce Amy Sagraves will not be running for a third term as Foundation Director. After four years serving on the board as both Director and Secretary, and over a decade supporting our foundation’s events, Amy is joyfully shifting her focus to event planning and supporting her son’s high school journey.
Amy’s impact is immeasurable. She transformed Black Tie and Boots into the spectacular event it is today and, as Secretary for two years, brought unmatched organization to our foundation’s documentation. Her organizational skills are truly one-of-a-kind, and her shoes will be incredibly hard to fill. President Alan Johnson said, “Amy will be difficult to replace. If Amy was planning an event, you knew it would happen without a hitch.”
We’re sad to see her go but deeply understand and support her new chapter. Please join us in wishing Amy all the best!
Placerville, CA – August 25, 2025 – The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF) is proud to announce the election of Diane Hawks as Secretary, effective immediately. Hawks, a lifelong off-road enthusiast, brings decades of trail experience and a deep passion for supporting the off-road community to her new role.
“Diane’s ability to get things done, her strong attention to detail, and her commitment to clear communication will be a tremendous asset to the Foundation,” said RTF President Alan Johnson. “Her leadership will help us achieve our goal of greater transparency and stronger engagement with the off-road community while continuing to advance our mission.”
The Foundation also extends its heartfelt gratitude to Amy Sagraves, who has faithfully served as Secretary for the past 2.5 years. Amy’s attention to detail, organizational leadership, and dedication to the Rubicon Trail Foundation have greatly strengthened the organization, and RTF thanks her for her outstanding contributions.
The Rubicon Trail Foundation looks forward to Diane’s leadership as Secretary and to continuing its mission of preserving the Rubicon Trail for future generations.
For more information, visit www.rubicontrailfoundation.org (http://www.rubicontrailfoundation.org/).
Contact: in**@********************on.org
July 1, 2025 – The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF) announces that President Jeff Blewett is stepping down from his role due to health reasons, effective immediately. Blewett, a dedicated leader instrumental in advancing the Foundation’s mission to preserve and maintain the historic Rubicon Trail, will continue to serve as a director, contributing his expertise and passion to the organization.
The RTF Board of Directors has unanimously voted Alan Johnson, former Vice President, as the new President. Johnson brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to the Foundation’s goals of trail stewardship, environmental protection, and public access. His leadership is expected to guide RTF in continuing its impactful work.
“We are grateful for Jeff’s unwavering dedication and leadership,” said Johnson. “His contributions have strengthened our mission, and we’re thrilled he’ll remain a director. I’m honored to step into this role and lead RTF forward.”
A new Vice President will be selected at the next board meeting in late July. The Foundation remains committed to its mission of preserving the Rubicon Trail for future generations while fostering responsible recreation and environmental stewardship.
For more information about the Rubicon Trail Foundation, visit rubicontrailfoundation.org.
Recent Comments