This is the first installment of the RCRC Board Member Spotlight, a new recurring feature of the Barbed Wire! The Board Member Spotlight is intended to familiarize subscribers with RCRC Board members, providing insights from their background in public service to their views on pressing rural county issues. RCRC is pleased to introduce the subject of our first Board Member Spotlight, Modoc County Supervisor and RCRC’s 2025 Board Chair, Geri Byrne.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in public service?
I was raised in an informed and politically active family. Open discussion was common and inspired me to write a report in the fourth Grade on the history of the Republican Party. I enjoyed 11 years as a member of 4-H, often in leadership positions, and participated in Youth Toastmasters. Many years of actively working on the ranch brought knowledge of natural resources and the issues surrounding this valuable commodity. It was time to try to make a difference, and I was motivated to run for office at the County level.
2. What is one piece of advice you might share with a newly elected county supervisor based on your experience?
The complexities of local government are vast and may seem overwhelming. Become involved in organizations like RCRC and CSAC. You will gain excellent knowledge, and the networking opportunities will serve you well.
3. What makes your community unique?
Modoc County is a small county of 8700 and is spread over 4203 square miles. There is a stoplight at the corner of Highway 299 and Highway 395 within the only incorporated city, Alturas, but there is no traffic signal in the county. Modoc is an agricultural county where there are more cows than people. Effective solutions in the state’s more populated areas often do not work here. Our motto, ‘Where the West still lives,’ is practiced daily with neighbors helping neighbors, large attendance at the County Fair, the 4th of July parade, FFA and 4-H events, and local BBQs.
4. What is a policy or initiative in your county of which you are most proud?
I am proud of Modoc’s financial and professional progress. When I was first elected, Modoc County was in an economic downward spiral, and we, as a Board, along with our very talented CAO, Chester Robertson, have returned the County to solvency, success, and respect.
5. How long have you served on the RCRC Board and why do you believe the work of RCRC to be important?
I have served on the RCRC Board since 2011. RCRC is both an advocate for rural counties and an important resource, especially for our smaller counties, which often do not have enough staff to be involved in significant projects. I frequently say that the best part of being a Supervisor is serving on RCRC. RCRC’s dedicated staff makes our jobs as County Supervisors much easier.
6. What do you view as the most pressing rural county issue for RCRC to engage on over the next few years?
Building on the efforts to address unfunded mandate claims through the efforts of RCRC Legal; continuing to press on the inapplicability of a “one-size-fits-all” approach to regulations; and addressing water and forest management strategies to avoid negative impacts on counties and our communities.
7. What is something about you that people may be surprised to learn?
Although not a secret, my spare time is spent training my Border Collies to work sheep and competing in sheepdog trials. I love to drive a tractor, ride my ATV, and organize large events. I have organized the National Sheepdog Finals 7 times over the last 27 years and will do so again in 2025 in Modoc County.