As one of the oldest nonprofits in the region, the Eastern Sierra Interpretive Association (ESIA) was established in 1970 by visionary citizens interested in helping the U.S. Forest Service provide interpretive education relevant to the unique surrounding landscape. ESIA became one of the first independent organizations in the United States to operate under a Participating Agreement with the U.S. Forest Service for educational purposes. In 1971 ESIA received its nonprofit 501(c)3 status. Today, ESIA's ongoing agency partnerships include the Inyo National Forest, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Tahoe National Forest, Death Valley National Park, Devils Postpile National Monument, Manzanar National Historic Site and the Bureau of Land Management Bishop Field Office.