Congratulations to Rich Adams, Sierra District's New Superintendent
Northern and Desert Division Chief Greg Martin pins new Sierra District Superintendent Rich Adams. Photo from California State Parks
This is a News Release from our partner, California State Parks.
For Immediate Release: Friday, June 26, 2026
Contact:
Newsroom@parks.ca.gov
SACRAMENTO — California State Parks is pleased to announce the selection of Rich Adams as the new district superintendent for the Sierra District.
Rich's State Parks career began in 1995 as a seasonal Park Aide at D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay State Parks. In 1996, he joined the Sierra District Natural Resources and Fire Management team, beginning a career that would span nearly three decades of service to the California State Park System.
After graduating from the University of Washington's College of Forest Resources in 1998, Rich completed an internship under Department Forester Stephen Bakken and became a California Registered Professional Forester in 2002. He went on to serve as Sierra District Forester for more than 20 years before advancing to Senior Environmental Scientist Supervisor. As a prescribed fire burn boss, Rich has led numerous prescribed fire projects throughout the district, helping protect natural resources and improve ecosystem health.
Rich began serving as acting Sierra District superintendent in April 2025, providing steady leadership and support for district operations.
A longtime resident of Lake Tahoe's west shore, Rich lives with his wife and three children within biking distance of Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park. Together, they enjoy exploring the outdoors year-round, whether on the trails, in the water, or on the snow.
As he steps into his new role, Rich looks forward to supporting the Sierra District team, serving visitors, and continuing to enhance the state parks he has dedicated his career to protecting.
Congratulations to Rich!
Adams during a prescribed burn at D.L. Bliss State Park in October 2006. Photo from former State Park employee Silver Hartman
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California State Parks provides for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation.
