Meet SPF's New Executive Director
We are excited to introduce Lora Claus as the Executive Director of Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland (SPF). Lora has officially joined our team and brings with her a deep commitment to agriculture, strong leadership experience, and a personal connection to Skagit County. Lora’s appointment was unanimously approved by the SPF board of directors.
Lora brings a wealth of relevant experience to SPF. She holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Agricultural & Applied Economics from Virginia Tech. Her career has spanned various leadership roles, including time at Smithfield Foods, where she worked as a cattle analyst and helped farmers hedge against price volatility. Lora later served as a purchasing agent for agricultural feed and ingredients, developing a strong appreciation for operations and supply chain management. She then held senior leadership roles at a manufacturing company, Burndy, fostering collaboration and teamwork across a variety of departments to solve problems and move the organization forward skills she is eager to bring to SPF.
As Executive Director, Lora will guide SPF in navigating the many pressures on Skagit County farmland, from residential development to new land uses, like the proposed Battery Energy Storage Site in Sedro Woolley. "What we have here in Skagit County is special," Lora shared. "When we protect farmland, we know that future generations will continue to farm. Safe, local, and diverse foods will not be a thing of the past, but a part of the vibrant future here, in Skagit County."
Lora and her husband Jeff Claus have strong family ties to Skagit County. Lora is proud to be the daughter-in-law of Debbie (Peth) Claus and Jon Claus. The Peth family has farmed in the Skagit Valley for generations. Lora, Jeff, and their two boys, Scott (10) and Max (7), permanently relocated to the area in 2022 and live in the house Grandpa Bob and Grandma Janet Claus built in 1972. Bob was the ag teacher in Sedro-Woolley for many years.
Lora is excited to engage with SPF's members and the broader community. As we approach the holiday season, she is grateful for the opportunity to lead SPF. "I am thankful to the board and the community for their trust in me," she shared. “Together, we will continue to educate and advocate to preserve the farmland that makes Skagit County so special."
Please join us in welcoming Lora Claus to her new role, and let’s keep Skagit Valley farming!
Kim Good Rubenstein,
SPF Board President