Brian Holcombe moving on from the Backcountry Snowsports Alliance

The Backcountry Snowsports Alliance (BSA) announces the resignation of Executive Director Brian Holcombe, effective late November 2008. Holcombe will remain with the organization in an advisory role through early 2009, assisting in the organization's leadership transition.

In announcing his resignation, Holcombe stated, "Following a great deal of reflection and discussion with my family and the Board of Directors, I have decided that the time has come to face new challenges. With great affinity for the Backcountry Snowsports Alliance, its Board of Directors, members, partners, and volunteers, I wish great success for the organization as it continues to preserve backcountry areas for skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers across Colorado."

Holcombe, who came to BSA with a background in natural resource policy, specialty outdoor retail management, and backcountry skiing, leaves the organization after leading BSA for 21 months in projects across the state of Colorado aimed at preserving the human-powered winter backcountry experience on public lands. During his tenure, BSA has seen many successes, including:

• The preservation of human-powered recreation opportunities at Dry Gulch, Red Mountain Pass, and Hahns Peak.
• The highest level of organizational membership since inception in Winter 2007-2008.
• The organization's most successful fundraiser at the 2008 Backcountry Bash.
• Creation of two new local chapters, based in Ridgway and Fort Collins, Colorado.
• Institution of a new Industry Partners Program, laying the foundation for expanded corporate partnerships.
• The adoption of a new member database, enabling more effective member and constituent relationship management and fundraising activities.

The Board of Directors extends their appreciation to Brian for all of his hard work carrying out the mission of BSA and wishes him great prosperity in all his future endeavors.

Moving forward, the Board has developed a transition plan that includes hiring a part-time Operations Coordinator to manage the day-to-day responsibilities of running the organization and tasking members of the Board to oversee our advocacy and organizational development goals.

A change in leadership will require overcoming temporary challenges, but also provides many opportunities for growth and improvement. The Board of Directors is committed to you, the members and partners of the BSA, and will continue to be your voice for protecting non-motorized areas across this great state for backcountry snowsports.