The Muskie School of Public Service mourns the passing of Richard Edward Barringer, a visionary leader whose decades of service influenced Maine’s public institutions, protected its natural landscapes, and strengthened the mission of our School. As the founding director of the Muskie School of Public Service, Barringer brought together rigorous policy thinking, a deep commitment to conservation, and the power of public stewardship to improve lives.
His career spanned transformative roles – from reclaiming and conserving public lands to guiding state planning, teaching generations of students, and championing the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. His influence remains visible in Maine’s policy landscape and its conservation legacy.
We encourage members of our community to read his full obituary, which offers a rich portrait of a life lived in service to Maine: https://obituaries.bangordailynews.com/obituary/richard-barringer-1093303624