Ski Conservation Fund

As described in an earlier post, the National Forest Foundation – Ski Conservation Fund provides funding for projects that improve forest health and outdoor experiences on National Forests. Funds are generated from opt-in guest contributions when purchasing lift tickets or season passes at ski areas operating on National Forests. The National Forest Foundation also adds additional funds for these projects.

Through funds generated by lift ticket and season pass sales at Monarch Mountain over the last few seasons, three projects have now been designated to receive funds.

• Continental Divide Trail/Boss Lake Trail Improvements: Approximately $12,000 to the Southwest Conservation Corps to support trail improvements on the CDT/Boss Lake Trail, leading up to Boss Lake from the Middle Fork of the South Arkansas River.
• Monarch Gravel Pit Restoration: Approximately $12,000 to Trout Unlimited to support the implementation of erosion control measures at the Monarch Gravel Pit to reduce sedimentation into the South Arkansas River.
• Monarch Nordic Ski Trails Approximately $6,000-$10,000 to SW Conservation Corps to support trail development/clearing and signage in the upper Monarch Park area, to initiate development of a new Nordic ski trails system.

Work on the Boss Lake Trail and Monarch Gravel Pit projects would occur this summer, and the Nordic Ski Area work would likely occur in late fall 2019 or late spring/early summer 2020. These projects tick several boxes with investments in summer recreation, winter recreation, and water quality!

Thanks to all guests that have opted in for helping to support these projects. With 2019/20 season pass sales in progress, the opportunity to support future projects on the San Isabel National Forest is available. For more information about the program, click here.