The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation (JRBAF) has purchased 136 acres of National Forest inholding property adjacent to Meadow View Peak, a Sierra high-country destination approximately 40 air miles northwest of Reno, Nevada. The Foundation plans to develop a new public backcountry airstrip as a place for visitors to enjoy and explore, with day use facilities, camping, and other amenities.
JRBAF has launched a $200,000 Phase 1 capital campaign. Half of the goal will pay off the $100,000 seller-financed note on the property. The remaining $100,000 will support a site survey, fencing, airstrip and site improvements, mowing equipment, camping facilities, a springfed water system, and off-grid power and communications. The Foundation hopes to open Meadow View Peak by summer 2027.
“We’ve closed on the land, and now we have the opportunity to create an amazing new public backcountry airstrip,” said Brad Damm, JRBAF’s executive director. “Our goal is a place where pilots can land, camp, and experience this landscape for years to come. We’ve already had encouraging conversations with Plumas County, and we’re ready to begin the planning and approval work needed to bring that vision to life.”
The property’s mountain meadows and mature ponderosa pines are surrounded by National Forest land. It sits in an active backcountry flying area, just 15 miles west of the popular High Sierra Fly-In site at Dead Cow Lake. JRBAF envisions Meadow View Peak as its next recreational aviation destination, following its work at the 45 Ranch and Star Valley Ranch in Idaho.
“Acquiring the property is a major step, but opening it to the public will take a community effort,” said Joe Dory, chair of JRBAF’s board of directors. “This capital campaign gives pilots, aviation businesses, and everyone who values backcountry access a chance to help build something lasting from the ground up.”
The Foundation was established in memory of Jim Richmond, whose passion for aviation and the backcountry continues to guide its work.
“Jim believed in the freedom and connection that flying into wild places can bring,” said Susan Richmond, Jim’s widow, speaking on behalf of the Richmond family. “Our family is grateful to see that spirit carried forward through Meadow View Peak. We hope it becomes a place where people make memories and discover why access to the backcountry matters.”
JRBAF will work with Plumas County on the approvals needed for the airstrip and visitor facilities before opening the property for public use. The Foundation will share updates as planning and site work progress.
To learn about the Meadow View Peak project, or to contribute to the JRBAF’s capital campaign to develop this property for public aviation access, please visit https://givebutter.com/jrbafmvp.
Pilots and other backcountry enthusiasts are welcome to join at: https://www.JRBAF.org
