DEDICATED TO THE LAND
Donor Spotlight on Terri Arington

Terri always kept a desire to continue this lifestyle and connect with those who shared an affinity for the outdoors. This was exactly what Terri found when she met Ron during her first job packing mules and prepping horses in Northern California’s Trinity Alps. “I had found someone who shared a love for this lifestyle. I remember some days after work, we would grab a couple of horses and just take a ride at sunset.” Ron and Terri soon tied the knot, and they embarked on a beautiful life together. 

For almost 30 years, the Aringtons devoted themselves to teaching upcoming generations about the importance of agriculture. Ron taught agricultural sciences at Sonora High School. As Ron was busy dedicating himself to the thousands of students he taught over a 28-year teaching career, Terri was right there with him involved in many of the instructional activities. 

They also found time to help local ranchers in their home community of Tuolumne County. Whether it was running cattle or branding livestock, they searched for ways to help out wherever they could. In fact, many of these ranchers were Ron and Terri’s students’ families, or students themselves! It was always common, and delightful, for them to come across their students. After all, the youth are the future custodians of the earth. 

Retirement did not slow this pair down; in addition to continuing their support for local ranchers, they took on roles as forest service volunteers helping to maintain trails and ensure safe paths for hikers. In classic Ron and Terri fashion, they would stay the evening and camp out on the grounds where they labored that day. Their enduring affection for the land remained steadfast. 

After a lifetime filled with cherished moments, Ron and Terri faced an untimely farewell with Ron’s sudden passing. Ron and Terri were doing what they loved – helping out friends at a local property, when Ron suffered a tragic ranching accident. He’s remembered by the thousands of lives he touched as a husband, teacher, and friend. 

Reflecting on the profound loss of Ron, Terri shares that she still receives reminders of how many lives he impacted. Honoring their traditions together, Terri continues to help local ranchers. She also carries on their legacy of educating the youth in agriculture. “I am still involved with FFA, 4-H, and I sponsor scholarships at all three of our local high schools. These kids are our future.” 

Terri is still finding ways to steward the land and uphold the traditions of western heritage. She heard about California Rangeland Trust through her local community back in 2014. She has been a donor for almost 10 years, and her charitable giving has qualified her to become a member of the Silver Spurs. “I appreciate the Rangeland Trust’s tireless efforts to preserve and protect the unique, open rangeland in California. We only have so many resources on this earth, and it is up to us to conserve them.” 

Terri is also grateful for the ranchers who care for these working lands. “They’re environmentalists. They protect the land. People think food comes from the grocery store. No, it comes from all the work farmers and ranchers are doing.” 

Terri has a deep appreciation for the land, and she continues to spend her life cultivating this precious resource. Whether she’s helping former students at a local ranch, supporting the Rangeland Trust, or simply taking a stroll and enjoying the outdoors, Terri remains a valuable contributor to our spectacular Golden State. Thank you, Terri!