SDMB's Meet the Board: Dave Slagle

Welcome back to a SDMB's Meet the Board, where we introduce our current board members and give them an opportunity to talk about what motivates them to volunteer their time with SDMB. Third up, board member and current events committee chair, Dave Slagle!

1. How long have you been involved with SDMB?

My first event was Brats and Beers up at Catalina State Park in November of '13. I was late and missed most of the ride but still had a great time. I was determined not to be late to the next one. My next event was a trail build day working on the Yetman Wash reroute in early 2014. I still think of that day every time I ride that trail.

In 2015, I was working on my first Our MTB Rides jersey, when I was asking Zach McDonald (then SDMB president) about putting the SDMB logo on our jersey when he suggested that I join the board. Sounded fun, but I was way too busy with family, work and running my own bike group. A few months go by and I get a call from Evan (current SDMB president) who again asked if I was interested in joining the board. After attending a single board meeting, next thing I know Pedro and I are on the board.

2. What about SDMB’s mission and work really motivates you?

I really enjoy being part of the projects we are working on. I find building new and maintaining existing trails very rewarding. I like to think that I'm a small part of the reason Tucson is an awesome place to ride.

3. What is one personal/professional asset you bring to SDMB?

I run the Our MTB Rides Facebook group and use that platform to advocate for SDMB. I really enjoy running some of SDMB’s events and further building community.

4. What do you want to accomplish with SDMB moving forward?

I would love to be part of the reason our projects (100 Acre Wood bike park, Starr Pass and Fantasy Island trails projects) encourage people to start cycling and to promote Tucson as a riding destination!

5. What is your favorite trail to ride (local preferred, but anywhere works)?

Favorite single trail: Bug Spring. So much fun.
Favorite trail system: Starr Pass with all the new trails I've worked on. The feeling you get riding on trail you helped build is hard to describe. And Fantasy Island is the trail system that got me to love mountain biking!!
Favorite trails outside of Tucson: Moab's Hymasa and Captain Ahab. Then there is Bentonville. Lots of fun there. Maybe I need to get out more but we have it so good here in Tucson.

Thanks Dave! Be on the lookout for more bios coming soon!

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Mt Graham Article about SDMB Volunteers

By Michael Dematties • July 29, 2026

Local News Volunteers Partner with Forest Service to Restore Mount Graham’s Cunningham Loop Trail July 26, 2026 - by News Director Share Share Pin It Share Forest Service Photo: A dedicated group of community members and trail advocates spent early Saturday morning giving back to the Pinaleño Mountains, coming together to restore key portions of the western Cunningham Loop Trail #316 in the Safford Ranger District. Gila Herald Staff Reports MOUNT GRAHAM — A dedicated group of community members and trail advocates spent early Saturday morning giving back to the Pinaleño Mountains, coming together to restore key portions of the western Cunningham Loop Trail #316 in the Safford Ranger District. The workday—organized by the Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists (SDMB)—brought together 23 volunteers, group members, and U.S. Forest Service personnel, including Safford District Ranger Voelker. The team focused efforts on the southeastern section and connector trail of the western loop. Cunningham Loop Trail #316 is a popular destination for both mountain bikers and hikers, utilizing a blend of historic roadways and singletrack to form an approximately 4.5-mile loop. Forest Service Photo: Volunteers use a crosscut saw to enable moving a large log out of the way. To carry out the restoration without disturbing local wildlife or disrupting the natural surroundings, volunteers relied on traditional, non-motorized hand tools—including crosscut saws, McLeods, pickaxes, and pulaskis. The use of these purpose-built tools allows trail maintenance and construction to proceed quietly year-round. Organizers noted that the volunteer crew represented a wide variety of backgrounds, united by a shared goal to improve outdoor access and enhance the overall visitor experience in the Pinaleños. Collaborative efforts between local organizations like SDMB and the Forest Service remain vital for keeping trails open and well-maintained across the district. Forest Service Photo: The trail has been restored. How the Public Can Help Community members looking to support the trail don’t necessarily need a shovel to contribute. Trail organizers encourage local hikers and mountain bikers to get out and explore the newly restored path. Regular foot and bicycle traffic plays an important role in trail maintenance by helping compact the soil and prevent future erosion. To learn more about local trail stewardship initiatives or get involved with future workdays, visit the Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists website or check out details on the Cunningham Loop Trail #316 .