(GRAEAGLE, CALIF.) April 3, 2017 – The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) is excited to announce the addition of Christian Feucht as Managing Director, an important organizational move that will enable the expansion of SBTS for future growth. Known by his peers as “The Voice of Reason” and “The Silver Fox” for his bright silver hair, Feucht has been an invaluable part of the organization since his first trail work volunteer day in 1996. As a founding executive board member of SBTS in 2003, Feucht most recently served as SBTS Board of Directors President.
Feucht will give up his role as SBTS Board President and leave on good terms his current position as Product Development Manager at Wilderness Trail Bikes to take over the full-time role of Managing Director for SBTS. Feucht will join long-time friend, co-founder and Executive Director Greg “Willie” Williams to help handle the rapid expansion that SBTS is experiencing.
“Because of his extensive history and involvement with the Stewardship, Chris knows every single aspect of our non-profit organization, from fundraising and membership to our bike shop Yuba Expeditions and world class events like the Downieville Classic, Grinduro and Lost and Found,” said Jesse Passafiume, who will take over for Feucht as Board President. “The executive board was unanimous in our decision; there was no better person for this job than Chris, and we’re all very happy that he accepted.”
As Managing Director, Feucht will oversee day-to-day operations related to marketing, sponsorship, membership, Yuba Expeditions, all SBTS events, “…and anything else Willie doesn’t want to do,” added Feucht upon accepting the position. Feucht’s experience will also enable SBTS to grow, with more events planned in the next three years and the possibility of another Yuba Expeditions bike shop.
Bringing in Feucht as Managing Director also frees up Williams to focus on his life’s passion; planning, mapping and building both trails and relationships with community leaders and land managers. Williams has been instrumental in helping develop a vibrant recreation-based economy in Plumas and Sierra Counties while creating much-needed jobs for local residents. Last March, Williams accepted a Sierra Vision Award from the Sierra Business Council in recognition of the work SBTS has done in restoring and invigorating the local economy, community and environment.
With the addition of Feucht, Williams will be free to take on more trail projects and help realize the vision of connecting the Lost Sierra region with Truckee, Reno, Lake Tahoe and beyond; all through multi-use trails.
“I know it was difficult for Chris to leave WTB – a long-time partner and supporter of our cause – but we’re all so thankful he accepted, because we knew nobody else could do this job like Chris,” said Williams.
“I’m so thankful that WTB understands why it was important that I make this move,” said Feucht. “The timing was right for both the Stewardship and in my personal career. It’s a little scary, but definitely exciting. And I know it’s going to be a challenge, but from challenge comes greatness. We’ve got a great team and I’m so proud to be an official member of it.”
Feucht’s first official day with SBTS is Monday, April 3, 2017. He can be reached at chris@sierratrails.org.
For more information on SBTS, visit sierratrails.org or follow @sierratrails on Facebook and Instagram.
About Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship
The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS) was formed in 2003 as a volunteer-driven, 501c3 non-profit organization whose primary goal is the maintenance and enhancement of trail systems. With support of a strong volunteer base, we have contributed thousands of hours and extensive fundraising efforts towards trail maintenance, restoration and new construction in Downieville, Graeagle, Quincy, and the rest of the Lost Sierra. Our bike shop, Yuba Expeditions, has been welcoming mountain bikers to the region for 24 years. All proceeds from SBTS races and the bike shop go directly toward trails in the Lost Sierra. Visit sierratrails.org to learn more about volunteering for trail work, becoming a member, and supporting our events.
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