For more than five decades, Mike Buck has been exploring, discovering, sharing and learning about Alaska’s wild terrain. A retired school teacher, former occupational safety and health advisor, and long-time outdoor enthusiast, he received the 2026 Alaska Governor’s Safety and Health special safety award for his contributions to the field of health and safety.
In 2021 Buck, along with a powerhouse team that included Iron Dog champions including Tyler Aklestad, Chris Olds and Scott Davis, plus Iditarod champion Peter Kaiser, and outdoor enthusiast Dan Hull formed the Alaska Safe Riders. Aaron Bartel, another long-time outdoor enthusiast, took Hall’s seat and joined the board in 2023. This not-for-profit organization focuses on the safe operation of all-purpose vehicles through education and training programs. In 2026 they have already visited 45 communities, 37 schools, and taught over 10,000 individuals directly and 250,000 indirectly.
This effort, led by Buck, is possible thanks to a host of sponsors and supporters that include companies like Donlin Gold, Knik Construction, Lynden Transport, Conoco Phillips, Matanuska Telephone, and Matanuska Electric Association. They also receive major support from non-profit foundations that include the Rasmuson Foundation, Mat-Su-Health Foundation, Alaska Community Foundation, Doyon and others. Finally, Buck has amassed a team of volunteers and members that help with a host of tasks and outreach and also support the organization financially.
“In 2020, during the pandemic, I recognized that no organization or company was focused on the safe operation of all-purpose vehicles like snowmachines, ATVs and side-by-sides,” said Buck, “yet we live in a state with the highest rate of unintentional injuries and fatalities associated with this activity. I wanted to see that changed.” 
He took on the role and admits, “this is the hardest job I have ever had in my life. It’s become and obsession and I find myself putting in so many hours coordinating this outreach effort. I couldn’t do it without all the help and support I have received, but it just never seems like quite enough. We built this program for the State of Alaska. Now I’d like to see the state step in and provide some real assistance to ensure sustainability of the program.”
Currently the only funding provided by the State of Alaska is an annual $25,000 backcountry safety contract that supports programs offered in schools across Alaska. “It really doesn’t cover much of the real
cost but thanks to support from our sponsors and donors, we’re able to leverage the funding and make this happen,” explained Buck.
Why does this all matter? “I’ve always felt so fortunate for all the things I’ve been able to do,” said Buck. “For years I lived in Valdez where I could take off from my backyard and be 100 miles from anyone in a really short time. It’s just magical and amazing.”
He values the freedom that riding his sled gives him. “I’ll admit, I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my life. Had a lot of close calls and that has taught so much that now I want to be able to give back. I’ve seen a lot of tragedies over the years. Lost a lot of friends in crevasses and avalanches. It’s painful and an awful thing for anyone to have to experience. I want to do everything I can to help others experience all the adventure Alaska has to offer and to do it safely. This program has given me the opportunity to see the state and hear some incredible stories.”
Buck says those stories, along with the excitement he sees in the children’s eyes during his training sessions, keep him motivated and inspired to continue 
teaching. “The best thing for me is the look on the kids’ faces when they learn something new or receive a new helmet or goggles. It’s exciting and fills my heart with so much joy.”
Alaska Safe Riders has a host of programs coming to a school or community near you thanks to the work and efforts from Mike Buck. You learn more, join the effort, or make sure your school or community is on the agenda to receive a future Alaska Safe Riders safety program by visiting https://AlaskaSafeRiders.org
Story by Debra McGhan