It's been an exciting two weeks together since Eddie joined the team. Read on to learn more about him and the future with Evergreen! 

Viv: What do you love about mountain biking – and biking in Washington specifically?

Eddie: Cycling, in general, is one of the most efficient and accessible ways to travel through our urban and rural areas. As a form of recreation it can be a challenging and fun workout, or something done at a pace that simply facilitates an appreciation of where you are in the moment. And importantly, it is something families and friends can do together. Mountain biking provides the additional element of doing those things in places where we can explore and experience the natural beauty of this state. From our long, quiet, backcountry trails that wind through the less traveled forests to modern ride parks at Port Gamble and Duthie, this state has an experience for everyone in one of the most scenic places in the world.

Viv: What brought you to Evergreen?

Eddie: I’ve known about the organization since its early days as the BBTC. I also have been involved in the outdoor recreation space in Washington for many years, first working at the YMCA, then most recently at the American Alpine Club. I’m a lifelong bike rider, and started mountain biking over 30 years ago. I’ve served on Evergreen’s DEI committee since its inception, and have been a huge supporter of the work this organization has been doing for decades. Coming from a national organization, I realized much of the work I was doing was in places I would seldom go and being able to focus on the landscape and communities around me is that much more rewarding. My kids love riding their bikes on our trails, and it has become one of the main outlets for them to experience nature. When I heard Yvonne was stepping away I thought it was a perfect opportunity for me to bring my experience and skill to a new organization that is focused on places closer to home, in an activity I’m so passionate about.

Viv: What are your main goals for the next few years at Evergreen? 

Eddie: I’m stepping into an organization that is doing amazing work already, so a large part of my role will be to make sure we continue operating at a high level. It’s also an organization that has seen steady growth since before the pandemic, and is in an exciting state of transition. Evolving EMBA to respond to this growth will be a focus of our work in the next few years with an eye towards further building community, foster stewardship of the land, and in a way that is welcoming to all. For most of us (all of us?), riding has been a transformative experience in our lives, and I would love to be able to share that opportunity with anyone who seeks to know what we’re so passionate about.

Viv: What are you most excited about?

Eddie: I’m excited to lead a motivated and hard working team into our next strategic plan, visit our different chapters around the state, and meet the dedicated volunteers who are building the trails we ride. I’m also looking forward to working with tribal governments, organizational partners, stakeholders, and land managers to thoughtfully find common ground and solutions to the different issues we face. 

Viv: Anything else you want to share with the community? 

Eddie: If you see me on the trails, please say hi! I have a fist bump for everyone :)