Will Keller has been described by his peers:
- Part botanist, part rancher, part mountain goat, part ecologist. He has walked the legs off many a trainee
- Will is the grazing land whisperer
- A teacher at heart, Will is always willing to share his expertise
- Will has an open mind and open arms. He is a friend to all newcomers
- He is always willing to help where needed
- Will has the most even keel disposition
Will is a long-standing member of SRM and has served the organization in many capacities. He was president of the old Okanogan Chapter. Then he was director and president of the PNW Section. Will has helped put on several PNW summer and fall meetings in Washington. For the 2012 International SRM meeting in Spokane, Will was one of the Three Amigos leading the charge.
One of Will’s most enduring professional accomplishments is the creation of more than 30 Coordinated Resource Management planning groups from 1995 to 2003. More than 20 are still active and regarded as essential to agencies and ranchers alike.
Another major impact to Okanogan County has been his work with the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) grazinglands. These lands, including the Loomis State Forest, were evaluated and grazing plans developed and implemented. He has inventoried and assessed the riparian condition of 700 miles of streams.
The respect ranchers, agency personnel and elected officials have for Will Keller’s expertise is well earned. Help us honor this year’s Trail Boss, Will Keller.
