Al West (1932-2026) : A Life in Service to Forests, Fire, & Ojai

This special episode lives up to that designation.Yesterday, Ojai lost one of its most accomplished and respected citizens, Al West, who passed away at the age of 94.Today we're revisiting a conversation from our archives so that listeners can hear directly from a man who dedicated his life to caring for forests, watersheds, and communities. This is my conversation with Al West.When Al West arrived in Ojai as a young District Ranger in the 1960s, few could have imagined the impact he would have on our valley — or on America's public lands.Born in England and immigrating to North America in the early 1950s, Al built a distinguished career in forestry and natural resource management that eventually carried him all the way to Washington, D.C., where he served as Deputy Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, the agency's second-highest position. Along the way, he helped shape national policy on forestry, fire management, aviation, watersheds, and conservation.Yet despite his national accomplishments, Al never lost sight of the communities and landscapes he loved. Ojai remained one of those places. After retirement, he devoted countless hours to local service through organizations including the Rotary Club of Ojai, where he served as president, as well as numerous environmental and civic groups dedicated to protecting forests, watersheds, and open spaces.In 2005, Al was recognized as an Ojai Living Treasure, an honor reserved for individuals whose lives have enriched our community in extraordinary ways.Al West passed away yesterday at age 94. In tribute, we're reposting this conversation from our archives — a chance to hear directly from a man whose life embodied stewardship, leadership, humility, and service.Thank you, Al. Ojai is better because you were here.