Dave Turin, known as “Dozer Dave,” is a beloved figure from Discovery Channel’s Gold Rush. Fans often search for details about why Dave Turin left Gold Rush, his age, net worth, married life, salary, and what he’s doing now, including his new show. This article answers these queries while providing fresh insights, updated information, and a unique perspective on his journey. From his dramatic exit to his latest ventures like America’s Backyard Gold, we explore Turin’s life, career, and personal milestones.
Who Is Dave Turin? Biography, Age, and Early Life
Dave Turin, born on April 21, 1959, in Sandy, Oregon, is currently 66 years old as of 2025. Growing up in the foothills of Mt. Hood, Turin developed a passion for the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. His family’s rock quarry business, Mt. Hood Rock, shaped his early career, where he honed his skills in operating heavy machinery, earning the nickname “Dozer Dave.” A civil engineering graduate from Portland State University, Turin initially worked in his family’s quarry before joining Gold Rush in 2010.
Turin’s journey reflects a blend of technical expertise and an adventurous spirit. His ability to navigate complex machinery and lead teams made him a standout on Gold Rush. My personal observation from watching his shows is that Turin’s leadership style—calm yet decisive—sets him apart in high-pressure mining environments.
Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Turin |
| Nickname | Dozer Dave |
| Date of Birth | April 21, 1959 |
| Age (2025) | 66 years old |
| Birthplace | Sandy, Oregon, USA |
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Portland State University |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christian (Catholic upbringing) |
| Occupation | Civil Engineer, Gold Miner, Reality TV Star, Public Speaker |
| Known For | Gold Rush, Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine, America’s Backyard Gold |
| Social Media | Facebook: @grdozerdave, Instagram: @grdozerdave |
Why Did Dave Turin Leave Gold Rush?
Dave Turin left Gold Rush in 2017 after Season 7 due to a physical altercation with crew member Trey Poulson. The incident, aired on Discovery, stemmed from mounting tensions within the Hoffman crew, where Turin felt his leadership was undermined. In a 2016 interview with People magazine, Turin reflected, “My work family fell apart… I had to question my own motives.” This emotional and professional strain led him to exit the show, prioritizing his mental health and family.
However, Turin’s departure wasn’t permanent. He returned briefly in 2023 during Gold Rush Season 13 to sell his Valdez Glacier Creek claim, signaling his retirement from active mining. This move was strategic, allowing him to mentor younger miners like Jason Sanchez and Nathan Clark. My analysis suggests Turin’s exit was less about conflict and more about seeking autonomy, as evidenced by his successful spin-off ventures.
Dave Turin’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Dave Turin’s net worth is estimated at $3 million in 2025, a rise from earlier estimates of $2 million, driven by his Gold Rush earnings, spin-off shows, and family quarry business. While exact salary details from Discovery Channel remain undisclosed, industry insights suggest Gold Rush cast members earn between $10,000 to $25,000 per episode. Turin’s income also includes public speaking engagements on mining and safety, boosting his financial portfolio.
His wealth reflects strategic investments in mining operations. For instance, during Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine, his team extracted 600 ounces of gold worth over $1 million in Season 3 alone. Unlike peers like Tony Beets ($15 million net worth), Turin’s wealth is modest but stable, supported by diversified income streams.
Is Dave Turin Married? Family and Dating Life
Dave Turin is married to Shelly Turin, his high school sweetheart. The couple has been together for decades, raising three children and welcoming four grandchildren. Shelly, a former nurse, also assists with Turin’s business operations. Their enduring marriage is a cornerstone of Turin’s life, often highlighted in his Instagram posts (@grdozerdave), where he shares family moments like fishing trips with grandchildren Addy and Max.
There are no public records of Turin dating outside his marriage, dispelling any rumors. Shelly’s support has been vital, especially during Turin’s long absences for mining. In a 2023 Idaho Press interview, Turin noted, “Shelly keeps me grounded.” Their partnership exemplifies resilience, balancing demanding careers with family life.
What Is Dave Turin Doing Now? New Show and Career Updates
Dave Turin retired from active mining in 2022 but remains a prominent figure in the industry through his new show, America’s Backyard Gold, which premiered in 2024 on Discovery and Max. Unlike Gold Rush, this series focuses on small-scale prospectors across the U.S., showcasing their stories and techniques. Episodes like “Montana Hard Rock Heaven” and “Carolina Rare Gold” highlight Turin’s passion for history and community, as he mentors everyday miners.
Turin also engages in public speaking, sharing insights on mining, leadership, and faith. His website (dozerdave.com) promotes his talks, emphasizing his desire to inspire young tradespeople. My perspective, based on following his career, is that Turin’s shift to mentoring reflects a legacy-building phase, leveraging his 30+ years of expertise.
Dave Turin’s New Show: America’s Backyard Gold
America’s Backyard Gold is Turin’s latest venture, distinct from Gold Rush: Dave Turin’s Lost Mine (2019–2022). The show explores accessible gold mining, appealing to hobbyists and small-scale operators. Turin’s approach—combining technical know-how with storytelling—resonates with viewers. In a 2024 CONEXPO-CON/AGG interview, he said, “I love hearing people’s stories… why they’re out here chasing gold.” This human-centric angle sets the show apart.
The series has aired episodes in Oregon, Montana, and the Carolinas, uncovering historical and modern mining tales. Its success underscores Turin’s ability to reinvent himself post-Gold Rush, maintaining relevance in a competitive reality TV landscape.
Unique Insights and Real-World Impact
Turin’s career offers lessons in resilience and adaptability. A case study from his Lost Mine days shows how he turned a failing mine in Box Creek, Colorado, into a $1 million success by optimizing equipment use. This mirrors broader industry trends, where efficiency drives profitability. Data from the U.S. Geological Survey (2024) indicates small-scale gold mining contributes $500 million annually to local economies, a sector Turin champions.
His faith, rooted in his Catholic upbringing, also shapes his work. Turin’s “316 Mining” crew name references John 3:16, symbolizing his values. This spiritual grounding, rarely discussed in other articles, adds depth to his motivations beyond wealth.
Conclusion: Dave Turin’s Legacy
Dave Turin’s journey from Gold Rush to America’s Backyard Gold showcases a man driven by passion, family, and mentorship. At 66, with a $3 million net worth and a strong marriage to Shelly, Turin continues to inspire. His exit from Gold Rush was a turning point, leading to new opportunities and a focus on legacy. Follow his updates on Facebook or Wikipedia for more on his evolving career.
