David Reid was posthumously honoured by the Province with the Medal of Good Citizenship for extraordinary contributions to community life. Reid passed away last year in a kayaking accident. The medal recognizes people’s generosity, service, and acts of selflessness in their communities.
“Each one of these medal recipients has made their community a better place,” said Premier David Eby. “They have shown kindness and generosity while making sacrifices for the benefit of others. Their contributions serve as a reminder to all of what we can do in ways large and small to improve life for everyone.”
Below is a tribute to David Reid that was shared by the Province.
“David Reid was more than a trail builder, he was a community weaver. Trails, the veins of connection, were his medium. Beyond being pathways for walking, hiking, running, skiing and biking, Reid recognized their profound role in uniting British Columbians. These trails were not just recreational; they were the meeting grounds after work, where stories were shared, and connections deepened. They were the conduits to the province’s breathtaking landscapes, linking people to nature and each other, echoing the ancient ways of movement and communication.
Reid’s legacy unfolded over 15 years of voluntary dedication to trail building, crafting 18 exceptional mountain biking trails that form the core network in Squamish. Drawing more than one million trail enthusiasts annually, these trails contribute more than $10 million to Squamish’s economy.
But Reid’s vision extended beyond biking, he uniquely sought to unite diverse trail communities — hikers, runners and dirt bikers — under a shared vision of a world-class trail network. In 2019, Reid assumed the role of trail crew manager and lead builder for the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA), transitioning from building trails to leading efforts for trail sustainability and inclusivity. Beyond constructing trails, Reid envisioned and secured approval for the Mikayla Martin Memorial Trail, a cornerstone accessible to diverse riders, emphasizing the need for trails to be accessible to all.
Recognizing the importance of stewardship, Reid redirected his focus to trail maintenance, expanding a small crew to dedicate 3,000-plus hours annually to uphold the excellence of the existing trail system. Reid advocated for sustainable practices, sharing insights on weather-resistant construction and became a role model in his field. Dave Reid passed away in August 2022.”
