El Dorado County, Calif. — October 29, 2025 — The Rubicon Trail Foundation (RTF) will honor two extraordinary leaders whose dedication shaped the future of California’s most iconic off-road destination. At its annual Black Tie & Boots Gala on March 14, 2026, RTF will present the prestigious Rock Award to former El Dorado County Sheriff John D’Agostini and the late RTF Director Jeff Nilluka (posthumous) for their enduring contributions to the Rubicon Trail community.
Sheriff John D’Agostini: Building Trust and Trail Safety
Serving three terms from 2011 to 2022, Sheriff John D’Agostini transformed law enforcement on the Rubicon Trail by forging lasting partnerships between deputies and the off-road community. Within his first month in office, he worked directly with RTF to identify trail challenges and implemented nearly every proposed improvement — from assigning a dedicated Rubicon Deputy to introducing community policing and overnight trail presence.
Under his leadership, the Spider Lake substation was established, placing deputies at the trail’s core. His proactive approach addressed compliance with the 2009 California Water Board Cleanup and Abatement Order, helping keep the trail open and accessible.
D’Agostini also demonstrated steady leadership through crisis — including the 2012 Rachel Gray tragedy and the 2014 Buck Island helicopter crash — ensuring public safety and balanced enforcement while maintaining trust between agencies and the Rubicon community.
Jeff Nilluka: A Trail Champion Remembered
The late Jeff Nilluka, remembered as a driving force behind Cantina For The Con, helped raise more than $100,000 for RTF. Those funds enabled the purchase of 316 acres along the Rubicon Trail from Mark and Patti Smith in 2010, establishing the foundation’s legal standing and expanding recreation and camping opportunities for the public in 2016.
Though Nilluka passed away unexpectedly in 2015, his family continues his work in advocacy and volunteerism.
“John and Jeff represent the heart of the Rubicon community — selfless, visionary, and deeply committed,” said RTF President Alan Johnson. “Their efforts have safeguarded the trail for generations to come.”
Black Tie & Boots Gala — March 14, 2026
The RTF Black Tie & Boots Gala will be held at the Marriott in Rancho Cordova, celebrating trail stewards and raising funds for ongoing Rubicon Trail preservation, education, and safety programs.
For event details or to attend, visit rubicontrail.org.
About the Rubicon Trail Foundation:
The Rubicon Trail Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and maintaining the Rubicon Trail through responsible recreation, conservation, and community education.
Contact:
Alan Johnson, President
📧 President@rubicontrailfoundation.org
