USFS NEWS RELEASE
The Carson Ranger District is requesting comments on a proposal from Mount Rose Ski Area to expand its lift and terrain network, much of which is on National Forest System (NFS) lands under permit by the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The project area is located on both private and NFS lands in Washoe County, a short drive from south Reno.
The Forest Service is proposing to authorize a special use permit boundary adjustment for 112 acres on NFS lands to create the Atoma lift and trail “Pod” to the north of the Mt. Rose Highway. The purpose of the proposed project is to enhance the skiing experience at Mt. Rose and meet the changing expectations of the recreating public. The proposed action includes the following components:
- Construction of a skier bridge across the Mt. Rose Highway (connecting the current ski area to the new ski terrain)
- Construction of 11 new ski trails in the Atoma pod, including snowmaking and grooming
- Installation of a new chairlift to serve the Atoma pod
- Removal of the existing Atoma building and parking lot
- Construction of a snowmaking water impoundment at the westernmost portion of the existing special use permit boundary near the “Around the World” trail
- Creation of a non-significant Forest Plan Amendment to limit any further commercial development on the lands acquired by the Forest Service through the 1994 Galena Resort Land Exchange.
The project has been designed to provide additional terrain that is comfortable, appropriate and separated for beginning skiers and riders and to provide a consistent and quality snow surface on key ski terrain throughout the season.
The full scoping notice and map packet for this project can be downloaded at http://www.fs.fed.us/nepa/nepa_project_exp.php?project=41487. Electronic comments may be submitted by selecting the “Comment on this Project” link. Two public open houses will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. for this proposal:
June 18 Winters Creek Lodge
21333 State Route 878, Reno
June 19 Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Supervisors Office
1200 Franklin Way, Sparks
“These meetings are an important part of the public involvement process,” stated Genny Wilson, Carson District ranger. “Forest Service staff and Mount Rose Ski Area representatives will be at the meetings to answer questions and more fully explain the proposal.”
Comments will be most helpful if submitted within 30 days from the publication of the Notice of Intent in the Federal Register. For more information, contact Linda Crawley, interdisciplinary team leader, at 775-355-5377 or e-mail [email protected].
- A map is linked here.
