Who Are We?

The Trail Stewards is a South Dakota and federally recognized non-profit organization, classified under the IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt guidelines. We exist for one reason: to raise funds and advocate for the development and enhancement of motorized off-road trails specifically designed for motorcyclists. Whether it’s expanding single-track trails or opening up new terrain for 62-inch or smaller vehicles, we’re committed to keeping the adventure alive. We don’t operate in isolation. Our team collaborates with other organizations that share our vision of responsible, motorized trail use. Together, we work to ensure that future generations of riders can experience the thrill of riding through untamed landscapes.

How We Work

Transparency: Every dollar that comes in and goes out is accounted for and shared openly with our donors and supporters.
Tax-Deductible Donations: All contributions made to Trail Stewards are fully tax-deductible under IRS 501(c)(3) regulations.
Volunteer-Driven: Our organization is 100% powered by volunteers. From the Board of Directors to the ground-level support, no one takes a salary. Our bylaws strictly prohibit any form of compensation for our board members, officers, or volunteers.

How Can You Help?

Your support keeps these trails open and thriving. All donations of $200 or more will receive an official donation letter for your tax records upon request. There are several ways you can get involved:

Donate Online: Use the DONATE button on this page to make a secure contribution.
Mail Your Contribution: Send a check payable to:
Trail Stewards
422 Aviation Pl.
Spearfish, SD 57783

Donate Now

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Meet the Riders Behind Trail Stewards

David Rossi, President

David Rossi, our fearless leader, embodies the spirit of adventure. With an entrepreneurial mindset and a lifelong passion for motorsports, David has been chasing thrills on two wheels since his teenage years. After a long break, he returned to dirt biking in his 40s, rediscovering his love for the open trail. David’s adventures have taken him across local and international terrains, often riding alongside friends and his wife, Spencer. His experience with the Dakota 600 sparked a desire to give back to the off-road community, leading him to establish the Trail Stewards in 2024. Under his leadership, the organization is making significant strides in trail preservation and development.
Email - [email protected]
Phone - (307) 660-6941

Jon Kennedy, Vice President

WY has been home for over 30 years, enjoying decades of skiing, snowmobiling, flying, and riding motorcycles in WY, SD, CO and MT. I love the outdoors and the many memories my motorized adventures have provided. The Dakota600 rekindled a love of dirtbikes four years ago and it has been fun reconnecting with friends and making new ones! I enjoy donating my time on the Board and making sure all the routes are accurate and loaded on the various mapping sites.
Email - [email protected]
Phone - (307) 660-2765

Mark Erickson, Treasurer

Mark Erickson’s love affair with motorcycles began in the early 1960s when he first rode a mini-bike. His passion grew with his first real motorcycle, a 1968 Yamaha 80 Trailmaster. Over the years, Mark has made countless memories trail riding and racing with family and friends. Today, Mark continues to ride and race, believing it’s the secret to staying young—or at least feeling young! As the Treasurer of Trail Stewards, Mark manages the organization’s finances and ensures that funds raised from events like the Dakota 600 are used effectively. He also works closely with the Forest Service to expand and maintain single-track trails in the Black Hills.
Email - [email protected]
Phone - (303) 517-0392

Jason Hovdenes, LEM Recruitment & Training

Jason Hovdenes grew up exploring the rugged terrain of the Black Hills, long before the digital age. His childhood was filled with adventures—collecting firewood, exploring old mines, and even prospecting for gold. At the age of 12, Jason saved enough money to buy his first motorcycle, a 1977 XT 500, and his passion for riding has only grown since then. Today, Jason is responsible for recruiting and training Local Experienced Men (LEMs) who assist with the Dakota 600 and other Trail Stewards events.
Email - [email protected]
Phone - (605) 641-5175

Todd Young, Secretary

Growing up in industrial Ohio, with concrete underfoot and steam in the air, I spent most of my young life dreaming of other places. Yearning for open space filled with grass and trees, places where I could ride my bike and shoot guns freely; for fun that is, not for the intent of harming others of course. It wasn’t until my 50s that I got a chance to get back on my bike and ride again in exactly the place I’d dreamed of as a kid, the Black Hills of South Dakota. Fortunately for me, and I am told fortunately for the Dakota 600, I have been a part of this event since inception; from talking points, to beer donations, jack of all trades and most importantly as a LEM (guide). Through the Dakota600 I have befriended some of the best people in my life. See you this summer!

The Backbone of Trail Stewards

Behind the scenes, Trail Stewards is supported by a team of eight dedicated volunteers who handle the day-to-day operations. During the Dakota 600, an additional 15 Local Experienced Men (LEMs) guide riders through the challenging and breathtaking trails of the Black Hills. Together, we’re not just riding, we’re preserving the freedom of the open trail for future generations. See you on the dirt.