About David Huff

Originally from Maine, David has established himself as a passionate hiker, mountain biker, and celebrated photographer residing in Asheville, North Carolina.

He is the principal founder and chair of the George Masa Foundation, an organization committed to empowering the youth with innovative and effective tools for engaging in environmental conservation and climate advocacy.

David also plays a significant role in the Carolina Mountain Club, the oldest trail maintenance and hiking association in the Southeast United States. He oversees the upkeep of a 2.5-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail and serves on the board of trustees for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.

His expertise in outdoor leadership was developed at the North Carolina Outward Bound School. As a certified Leave No Trace Master Educator, David is an advocate for responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation practices. His commitment to scouting is evident through his achievements as an Eagle Scout and his experience as a Scoutmaster.

In recognition of his dedication to nature and environmental stewardship, David is honored to serve as a brand ambassador for the outdoor equipment company Fjällräven

David has acquired a master’s degree in psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, a master's degree in education from George Washington University, and a bachelor's degree from George Mason University.

When he is not exploring new terrains, David fully immerses himself in the natural splendor and the lively culinary and arts culture of his Asheville home.

Fjällräven Guide

(Brand Ambassador)

Fjällräven's Guide program partners with people in our community who embody the values of our brand – have a passion for nature, a deep regard for sustainability, and respect for humans, animals and our environment.

 Each one of our guides hold different backgrounds and experiences and cherish sharing knowledge and passions with others through events, education and exchange of stories.

"Inspiring the world to walk with nature” is more than our mission- it’s an invitation to get closer to nature by joining our guides in our brand centers and communities as they teach us how to connect with nature in our own unique way.

I am honored to be one of three recipients of the 2023 Carolina Mountain Club Award of Appreciation. I accept this award on behalf of everyone who promoted CMC during its 100th anniversary celebration.

Core Values

A Story About a Stream…

When I was eight years old, family friend and award-winning photographer Bruce Roberts included my brother, Steve, and me in an environmental storybook. That was the same year that I started sleep away camp in Brevard, NC, and fell in love with the Blue Ridge Mountains.

I was fascinated by Bruce’s techniques, especially when he set a small glass fish tank in a creek and then put his camera inside in order to take a photo half submerged underwater (the third picture below!). Keep in mind that he was shooting on film and wouldn’t see what he had until he developed the roll.

I had no idea that I would one day pick up a camera myself. Bruce obviously made an impact on my eight-year-old imagination. This story is as relevant today as it was almost 50 years ago.

Story by Joel Rothman • Photos by Bruce Roberts

Once there was a stream fresh and clear which flowed through fields and woods.
In this stream you could fish, swim, even drink the water.
As time passed, the stream began to fill with plastic bags, bottles and cans, dirt, debris, and all sorts of wastes.
As the water became polluted, the fishes slowly died out.
No longer can you fish.
No longer can you swim.
No longer can you drink the water.
Yes, once there was a stream, fresh and clear . . .

 

Affiliations

Trustee

Council Member

Guide

Founding Chair

Master Educator

Member

 

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