Interviewed by Haley Sutton, Land Stewardship Associate
Meet Frank
How long have you lived in the Bay Area?
I moved to the Bay Area with my wife, Nell, in 1980 and have been in Concord since 1987.
How did you learn about Save Mount Diablo?
With Mount Diablo State Park and the other regional parks sitting in our back yard, I became aware of Save Mount Diablo shortly after moving to Concord. When Sean Burke (friend and climbing partner) started working for Save Mount Diablo, I learned much more of the details.
When did you start volunteering with us, and why did you get involved?
I have been a property steward for about one year. I have been hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and exploring within these open spaces for over 40 years. I use these open spaces almost daily to get workouts in and the wiggles out. When I’m out and about, I encounter an exciting variety of wildlife.
I would like there to be even more public open space, connecting trails, and preserved wildlife corridors. Save Mount Diablo has been instrumental in achieving these goals. Save Mount Diablo volunteer work is a good way for me to give back and support the effort.
Which Save Mount Diablo programs are you involved in?
I am one of the land stewards for Oak Hill Lane. I have also been participating in various volunteer projects with DiRT.
About Frank’s Work
What do you enjoy about the volunteer work you do?
I enjoy supporting what I believe in, along with meeting and working with others that are interested in maintaining and improving our natural environment. On a more selfish note, I can now explore property that I would otherwise not have access to.
What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on as a volunteer?
The Pine Canyon graffiti removal project was very rewarding. Pine Canyon is a close by rock-climbing area that I have enjoyed with friends over the years. The beauty of the area is reduced by graffiti and litter. Removing graffiti was very gratifying.
Is there a memorable experience you’ve had as a Save Mount Diablo volunteer?
My first tour of Curry Canyon was very memorable. Working with and meeting others on projects has been memorable. The graffiti removal project was somewhat personal. Nell and I had a great time at the volunteer appreciation day in Curry Canyon.
Some of the Oak Hill property stewardship visits have included wildflower blooms, animal sightings, fence repairs, and trail maintenance.
How do you spend your time beyond your volunteer work with us?
Prior to my retirement, I provided project engineering support for refineries in the Bay Area. Nell and I have a grown son, daughter, and two grandchildren who live nearby. I spend much of my time hiking, backpacking, skiing, mountain biking, mountaineering, climbing, and fishing.
Join Our Volunteer Crew! We Depend on You
Given limited staff, resources, and time, Save Mount Diablo depends on volunteers to take organizational effectiveness from excellent to exceptional. Save Mount Diablo seeks to connect a passionate community to our mission, cultivating a sense of ownership and proficiency in every volunteer position offered.
Whether you want to help with restoration and stewardship, build and maintain trails, help with events, assist in the office, lead hikes, or advocate for us, there’s a place for you. For more information, check out Save Mount Diablo’s volunteer opportunities.
Top photo by Haley Sutton
