Susan Bechdel

Susan Bechdel began a career in the outdoor industry as a river guide in the southeastern United States, Mexico, Guatemala, and Chile.  In 1985, Susan and her husband Les founded a river outfitting business, Canyons Incorporated, leading 6-12 day trips down the Middle Fork and Main Salmon rivers.  

Throughout her three-plus decades as an Idaho resident, Susan has been active in the McCall community.  She served as Chair of the McCall-Donnelly School Board, as a founding member of the McCall-Donnelly Education Foundation (MDEF) and, after selling Canyons, as MDEF Executive Director.  Additionally, she has volunteered for numerous non-profit organizations, principally in education and health care.

Susan currently serves on the board of the Payette Lake Protective League and as an Ambassador for the McCall Public Library.  Her hobbies include skiing, biking, paddling and reading.  Now retired, Susan’s favorite times are spent with family, particularly her two grandchildren.

Boise State Public Radio is a fixture in the Bechdel home, often tuned to news programs, Fresh Air and Mountain Stage, as well as a weekly favorite, the Sunday puzzle on Weekend Edition.

Susan joined the community advisory board in June 2018.