Stewardship & Volunteers: Honoring Trail Leadership with the Lyon Payne Award

In a celebration of volunteer spirit and trail stewardship, the Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association (OMRA) joined with the State Forests Trust of Oregon to present the inaugural Lyon Payne Trail Volunteer of the Year Award on February 8, 2025.

The award honors the legacy of longtime OMRA member Lyon Payne, who passed away in 2022 after years of quietly giving his time and effort to trail maintenance and rider support. Lyon’s passion for Oregon’s outdoor spaces helped shape stronger, more sustainable trail networks — a legacy that continues through this new recognition program.

This year’s recipient, Richard Chapman, was selected for his extraordinary behind-the-scenes volunteer work. Known for maintaining OMRA’s tools, covering equipment costs out of pocket, and ensuring trail work continued without fanfare, Richard embodies the same humble commitment to the land that Lyon was known for.

“State Forests Trust of Oregon appreciates all that OMRA does to encourage riders to not only enjoy the trails, but to help preserve and enhance them through grassroots volunteer efforts,” said Trust leadership in announcing the award.

The award not only recognizes Richard’s invaluable contribution but also highlights the power of partnerships between recreational organizations like OMRA and land stewardship groups such as the State Forests Trust. Together, these organizations help ensure Oregon’s trail systems — motorized and non-motorized alike — remain safe, sustainable, and welcoming for all users.

Nominees for this year’s Forest Champions include volunteers from across the state who have dedicated thousands of hours to trail work, restoration, and community engagement in Oregon’s state forests.

About the Award: Named for Lyons Payne — beloved OMRA member and tireless volunteer — this annual recognition celebrates individuals whose contributions significantly support trail maintenance and recreational access.