Jim Somers returned to the Board in 2025, having previously served from 2015-2020. Jim and his wife, Missy, moved to North Whidbey following his retirement as an orthodontist in 2003. Jim received his Dental and Orthodontic degrees at the University of Michigan. He has been an active volunteer with several environmental groups, including Beach Watchers and Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group, and also co-chaired the Sound Waters Conference in 2007 and 2008.
In addition to long term Land Trust involvement, Jim has been a volunteer citizen scientist for nearly 20 years with several nonprofits and tribal research teams investigating juvenile salmon. In 2008, Jim received a national “Environmental Hero Award” for his volunteer work with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He and Missy enjoy active travel and being at home with their two dogs, Casey and Joey.