Meet The Team

Our Staff

Camille Richard

Executive Director

I have been part of the Lake Fork Valley community since 1965, first arriving as a toddler. Since 2008, I have led the LFVC’s transition into a vibrant organization, raising $4 million for conservation and restoration, and acquiring 60 acres of protected land – now an International Dark Skies Park. My work is informed by extensive experience in ecological restoration in Colorado and integrated conservation and development across the Himalayas, Mongolia, and the Tibetan Plateau. I remain dedicated to combining technical expertise with a deep-rooted commitment to community-based conservation and restoration.

Jenna Reis

Watershed Planning and Outreach

I serve as the AmeriCorps Watershed Outreach Coordinator in Lake City, bringing a background in environmental management, outdoor recreation, and community outreach. Outside of work, I enjoy making sustainable jewelry, dancing, and long walks in the backcountry.

Bradley Sowder

Watershed Sampling and Analysis

I'm a graduate researcher and environmental management professional, with a background in remote sensing, ecological restoration, and watershed science. My work focuses on vegetation mapping and landscape modeling to support land and watershed management. Outside of work, I enjoy climbing, backpacking, fly fishing, and spending time in the mountains.

Board of Directors

Tim Crist

President

My wife and I made Lake City our home in 2017 following my career in software programming. With an educational background in biology and a focus on infrastructure, I joined the LFVC to ensure our conservation efforts are built on a sustainable and high-functioning foundation. During the quiet winter months, I often trade the San Juan snow for the warmer latitudes and world class fisheries of places like Costa Rica and New Zealand. As Board President of the Lake Fork Valley Conservancy, I’m passionate about making Lake City a better place through our conservation and education efforts.

Lyn Lampert

Vice President

I've been on the LFVC Board since we were the Lake Fork Watershed Stakeholders back in 2002, and thus I serve as our institutional memory. In 1978, I co-authored A Climbing Guide to Colorado’s Fourteeners, and later authored The Lake City Hiking Explorer. I have spent decades documenting and traversing the San Juan Mountains. Fly fishing also allows me hands-on interaction with our watershed on a regular basis. Between my past service as Mayor of Lake City and my years as editor of the San Juan Mountains Journal, I am dedicated to using my historical and civic perspective to protect the Lake Fork Valley.

John Coy

Treasurer

A third-generation Colorado native, I grew up with a love for skiing, fly fishing, backpacking, and peak climbing, which fostered my belief in preserving our public lands for future generations. My career included nearly three decades in financial leadership, and I now serve as Treasurer to ensure the organization's fiscal health and long-term sustainability. Today, my wife Kerry and I split our time between Fort Worth and Lake City. Whether managing our Texas ranch or fishing the Lake Fork, I am dedicated to protecting our valley’s future.

Cristina Abbenante

Secretary

My love for wild places started on the riverbanks and beaches of South Texas. Since my first visit to Lake City in 1999, I've been captivated by the beauty and wildness of the Lake Fork Valley. Few things bring me more joy than a paddle board on the glassy surface of Lake San Cristobal or a forest trail lined with quaking aspens, mountain strawberries, and wild roses. My professional experience includes education, library science, and community outreach and I have gained valuable insight as a volunteer and mother. I bring a unique perspective and a passion to inspire others to respect and enjoy the clear waters, dark skies, and quiet beauty of the Lake Fork Valley.

Judy Boyce

Board Member

For over two decades, I served as the Executive Director of the Hershey Foundation in Houston and held leadership roles as a 17-year member and officer of the Houston Audubon Society. Since moving to Lake City full-time in 2021, I have combined my non-profit experience with my passion for ornithology to support the LFVC. I have documented over 58 bird species in the valley, including 13 unique species on the conservancy’s Slumgullion tract. I am dedicated to introducing the public to our protected lands through birdwatching expeditions and educational tours, helping others connect with the diverse winged life of the Lake Fork Valley.

Tracy Coffin

Board Member

I have been coming to Lake City since before I could walk, and my children are now the fourth generation to call this valley home. After decades of visiting, my husband Mike and I moved here full time in 2024. As an educational consultant and founder of 504U, I have spent my career helping students navigate complex transitions. I am excited to apply my background in education and advocacy to the LFVC, helping to nurture and protect the beautiful landscape I’ve spent my life loving.

Grant Looper

Board Member

Melissa Risteff

Board Member

My husband and I fell in love with the Lake Fork of the Gunnison Basin and purchased a home on the river here in 2007. Following three decades in technology and STEM education, I joined the board to contribute my specialties in strategy, digital transformation, and impact measurement. I value my time in the Pilates studio, in front of the stove, with Qigong, and in the San Juan backcountry. Whether engaged in global exploration or finding peace under my blue spruce canopy, I am dedicated to the stewardship of adventure and conservation. I want to ensure the Lake Fork Valley remains a protected legacy for generations.

Roy Shaw

Board Member

Want to get involved?

Would you like to discover more about the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River watershed?

The LFVC is looking for passionate board members and volunteers to join our team.