Challenge of Silverton Mountain’s heli-ski expansion denied
Denver Post File
DURANGO — A federal appeals board has denied a challenge of southwest Colorado ski area’s plan to expand helicopter skiing.
The Durango Herald reports a U.S. Interior Department appeals board recently denied the challenge by San Juan Citizens Alliance, saying the alliance has no legal standing to file the claim against Silverton Mountain’s proposal.
In May 2017, the Bureau of Land Management approved a new five-year permit for Silverton Guides — an arm of Silverton Mountain — to swap some land for its heli-ski operation.
Critics said expanding heli-skiing would compromise prime backcountry ski areas and increase avalanche danger.
Silverton Mountain owners Aaron and Jenn Brill say the deal would help boost Silverton’s winter economy and would provide safer terrain for both heli-skiers and backcountry users.
Support Local Journalism
Support Local Journalism
Readers around Aspen and Snowmass Village make the Aspen Times’ work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.
Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.
Each donation will be used exclusively for the development and creation of increased news coverage.
Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.
User Legend: 
Moderator 
Trusted User
Roaring Fork School District loses students, worries about loss in funding
During the 2020-2021 school year Roaring Fork School District saw 311 students withdraw across the district by October — many for pandemic-related reasons, Chief Academic Officer Rick Holt said.
