Richard Edgar

Richard Edgar is a lifelong resident of Redwood, NY, with deep roots in both the community and the mission of the Indian River Lakes Conservancy. A graduate of Redwood High School, Richard went on to serve six years in the U.S. Marine Corps before earning his degree in Business Administration from Jefferson Community College and East Carolina University.

Drawn back to the camaraderie and purpose of military life, Richard joined the U.S. Army Reserves, where he served for over 21 years while simultaneously working in the contracting department at Fort Drum. Following his retirement from military service, he continued his career at Stebbins Contracting for another 15 years, officially retiring in 2012.

Richard shared 55 wonderful years with his late wife, Catherine Edgar, with whom he raised two sons. Today, he has three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

A dedicated conservationist and skilled craftsman, Richard has been part of IRLC’s story from the beginning—building trails alongside some of our founders and providing hands-on stewardship for the land he loves. He is the builder behind the Trailside Learning Center—fondly known as "The Owl House"—at the Redwood Hill Preserve. A passionate woodworker with family roots in carpentry and millwright work, Richard brings both experience and heart to everything he does.

Now rejoining the IRLC Board, Richard is eager to contribute once again. “I feel I have the knowledge and background that will propel IRLC forward,” he says—and we wholeheartedly agree.