CITATIONS FOR FLAT TOP SNOWMOBILERS
Glenwood Springs—-Snowmobilers need to stay off the Flat Tops for a while longer. The forest service has been issuing tickets to snowmobilers for venturing into the area before the official changeover date between summer and winter. According to a new rule, snowmobiles are not allowed in certain areas of the White River National Forest until November 23rd. The rule was included in the new travel management plan to protect vegetation and visitors.
FOREST SERVICE SURRENDERS WATER RIGHTS DISPUTE WITH SKI AREAS
Washington, D.C.—The ski industry can breathe easy now. The U.S. Forest Service has decided to give up it’s fight with ski resorts over water rights. The forest service told Congress it no longer plans to force ski areas to surrender their water rights as a condition for keeping their operating permits. Western Slope Congressman Scott Tipton says it’s a victory for ski areas and ranchers alike who depend on the water for their livelihoods. Tipton says when he took up the fight with the Water Rights Protection Act, the forest service told him the goal was to prevent ski resorts from selling their rights for improper use. Tipton says in his conversations with forest service chief Tom Tidwell, no such transaction has ever taken place or been attempted by a ski resort.
SKIING THIS WEEKEND ON AJAX
Aspen—Break out your skis and boards. Aspen Mountain kicks off the season this weekend. Officials with the Aspen Skiing Company say tomorrow’s opening is 12 days ahead of the scheduled Thanksgiving Day kick off thanks to good, early season snow and snowmaking conditions. SkiCo Mountain Operations Vice President Rich Burkley says this is the best mid-November skiing they’ve had in years. Three lifts will be open tomorrow and Sunday, serving 215 acres of terrain.
GARCO/GLENWOOD CONSIDERING SENIOR CENTER
Glenwood Springs—-Senior citizens in Glenwood Springs are underserved according to city and county officials. During last night’s work session with the Glenwood Springs City Council, Garfield County Commission Chairman John Martin pointed out the city’s older citizens need a place to gather. Martin suggests converting the old library on 9th Street into a senior center. City Councilman Dave Sturges likes that idea but says what seniors really need is affordable housing in town.
