Photo: Ben Girardi

A familiar face has taken the helm at Sierra Avalanche Center. You may have seen David Reichel in the skintrack or digging in the snow while assessing avalanche conditions for SAC’s daily avalanche forecast. Or you may know him as the mastermind behind the California Avalanche Workshop, an event he founded and grew to spread avalanche education. Or you may have bumped into him on Mount Shasta, in the Eastern Sierra or in a remote corner of Tahoe backcountry.

We’re proud to have Reichel take on the leadership role at the Sierra Avalanche Center. In these uncertain times, when backcountry use is skyrocketing and avalanche awareness and education is vitally important, there is no question that Reichel’s passion for avalanche education and non-profit management experience will serve the organization well in the coming months and years. Reichel’s experience includes years as a guide, avalanche educator, college outdoor program director and non profit executive director. 

David takes over from Mark O’Geen who led Sierra Avalanche Center for three years. O’Geen was instrumental in SAC’s successful grant programs and the financial and avalanche awareness missions of the organization. He leaves the organization to help develop an avalanche safety program for the Union Pacific Railroad over Donner Summit. 

Reichel will work with Sierra Avalanche Center’s volunteer board of directors to lead the organization’s avalanche outreach mission. Please reach out if you would like to support the Sierra Avalanche Center's important work. If you see him in the skintrack, on the trail or at an avalanche awareness presentation, say hi.