Big news is coming for the backcountry aviation community. The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation (JRBAF) has announced a $100,000 donation commitment to support the preservation and development of remote flying destinations in the United States of America.
Part of the donation will support the development of Meadow View Peak in Plumas County, California, per Plane and Pilot Mag. The project’s newest site is the 136-acre property surrounded by Plumas National Forest. The foundation has been planning to develop an open-access backcountry airstrip there, with the site expected to welcome pilots in 2027.
The donation will also establish a dollar-for-dollar matching opportunity for Meadow View Peak, allowing independent donors to increase the funds available for its development. This initiative will support the foundation’s effort to make property available for recreational pilots.
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Donation will also support Idaho’s historic 45 Ranch
The improvements planned include replacing the roof of the caretaker’s residence. Opened to the public in 2024, the 45 Ranch features a 2,700-foot turf runway, providing access to some of Idaho’s remote wilderness areas and camping accommodations. The property will give pilots the chance to explore the backcountry while supporting recreational aviation, per FlyingMag .
The Jim Richmond Backcountry Aviation Foundation (JRBAF) has also launched its 2026-27 fundraising raffle. Participants can win one of three restored Piper J-3 Cub aircraft.
The JRBAF works to protect access to remote airstrips and recreational flying locations for current and future generations of pilots. Thus, the projects focus on maintaining backcountry aviation opportunities and preserving access to wild destinations that can be tough to reach by road.
The latest donation promise will support developing a new flying destination in California and maintaining an established public-use property in Idaho, expanding opportunities for pilots to explore more remote parts of the country.
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