CONSERVATION --  The Spokane-based Inland Northwest Land Trust has named a new executive director to oversee its private-land conservation efforts in Eastern Washington and North Idaho.

Garry Schalla has assumed the post held by Christopher DeForest, who has moved to a field-related position. Schalla previously was the executive director of the Okanogan Land Trust.

The nonprofit group, founded in 1991, has preserved in conservation easements 15,000 acres of private land on 47 properties.

 "Coming to Spokane and INLT, I am really excited to work with an experienced and professional staff. I believe that my addition will strengthen an already great team," he said.

Upcoming Land Trust events include:

• Wild Edibles Hike with Rich Leon, 10 a.m. on Oct. 12 at Liberty Lake County Park. Sign-up, (509) 328-2939.
• Meet, Greet & Eat, learn about the Land Trust, 1 p.m. on Nov. 9 at the Community Building, 35 W. Main Ave.

See a story updating the Land Trust's accomplishments.

Read about one of the Land Trust-affiliated success stories: Dawson family’s Forest Service Award.