Colin joined the NWTA board in 2019 and is our Stewardship Director & Quartermaster. He helps to make sure all of our Local Stewardship Teams have the resources that they need in order to build & maintain the trails that NWTA is responsible for. He is also the Quartermaster which means he manages our tool & equipment libraries. Hopefully, in less than 10 years, you will see Colin biking to the trails from his front door.
You can reach Colin at [email protected].
How and when did you first get involved with NWTA (joined NWTA and became a board member)?
I first got involved as a member and volunteer helping with trail maintenance in 2015. Then increased my involvement by helping with the tool trailer and becoming a crew lead in 2017. I was invited and accepted my board position as Stewardship Director in 2019. Most recently became a certified Sawyer in 2020.
Why did you join the NWTA board?
I joined the board because I wanted to further support our organization’s stewardship and advocacy efforts. One way of giving back to the community is by doing what I can to volunteer to maintain our current trails and build new sustainable trails. I feel it is important for us to maintain the trails that we ride on. In my time as an NWTA member, I’ve helped out with the tool trailer and as a crew lead at trail days. At that point, coming on as the Stewardship Director and Quartermaster made sense.
What part of NWTA’s mission resonates with you? What are your plans to help move this forward?
The goal of creating more recreation opportunities for mountain biking sums up my feelings most. The more trails we have, especially closer to where our members live, the better. We have so many great places to ride, but they do, however, require driving to get there. My dream? One day, I would love to see dedicated flow and/or technical MTB trails in Forest Park that would allow us to truly bike to where we ride.
When did you first start mountain biking/what was your first bike?
I started mountain biking in 2012 on a Specialized Hardrock from the early ’00s.
What do you love about mountain biking?
Simply put, I love mountain biking because it is fun! It is great to get out into nature with friends and have a good time. I like to ride anything from flow trails to steep technical trails.
Favorite place to ride?
Sandy Ridge has been my “go-to” trail system for many years. I also enjoy riding elsewhere for variety and views. Whistler is a top favorite of mine as well.
Favorite tool to use on the trail?
I like my Trail Boss with McLeod attachment for general trail maintenance and building. That being said, I most enjoy using my chainsaw to clear trail.
What do you do during the day (that pays your bills)?
I’m a mechanical engineer for a local trucking company.
What song do you listen to to get pumped up (for a ride or for a dig day)?
I don’t. Getting ready for a ride is enough to get me pumped.
Anything else you want to share about yourself with our members?
Is this where we start discussing 27.5″ vs. 29″, linear vs. progressive suspension designs, geometry numbers, tire selections, etc.?