Friends of Lake Sonoma
1974-Present
In July of 1974, the Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI) was organized to actively pursue the successful development of Warm Springs Dam and Lake Sonoma. This organization was the precursor to the Friends of Lake Sonoma. Milt Brandt, an insurance executive from Healdsburg, was the first president.
Following construction of the dam and formation of Lake Sonoma, CCI became a support organization focused largely on recreational development at the Lake. It also supported educational programs and funded transportation for local school children to come to the Congressman Don Clausen Fish Hatchery for tours.
In June of 1991, CCI reorganized as the Friends of Lake Sonoma (FOLS) and changed its mission statement. Going forward, the organization's purpose was to serve and support the interpretive and visitor service programs of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Sonoma. Milt Brandt was once again elected as its president.
Milt Brandt retired as chairman of FOLS in 1993. He was succeeded by Bob Malone (1993-2003), Dave Harmeson (2003-2013), Harry Bosworth (2013-2015), Rich Thomas (2015-2016), Linda Clapp (2016-2018), Kasey Wade (2019-2020), Brad Sherwood (2020-2022) The current chairman is Skip Brand, owner of Healdsburg Running Company and organizer of several running events, including the Lake Sonoma 50.