HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-1004 Documents Submitted at Mtg
Mt. Ashland 2015-2016, a year in review
The mountain opened on Monday December 14 missing our target opening date
of Saturday December 12 for lack of coverage, then lost power on Sunday forcing
a Monday opening. In all 7 days of operation were lost to weather or power
related events.
Our largest day was the day after Christmas with nearly 2000 guests joining us for
Local Mountain Fun.
We were open for 88 days, and 22 nights just two days shy of our average number
of operating days.
Total skier visits were 68,860, falling just short of our 70K visit goal. Despite the
increased parking, we turned guests away on several busy days this season.
Total snowfall for the season was 278" or more than 23' and we were blessed
with numerous powder days and bluebird conditions.
Mt. Ashland achieved record revenues in 2016 of nearly 2.5 million (since going to
a 5-day-a-week operation in 2009). This number exceeded revenue projections by
more than $700,000
Our managers held expenses in check which is difficult to achieve in a record
revenue year. Our percentage of expense to total income was the lowest it has
been in ten years at 61%.
The Snow sports department (Ski School) was one of the standouts for the season
instructing nearly 4000 kids and adults over the season. The after school program
brought in close to 1000 students after two years of not having any programs at
all.
Retail and food and beverage also excelled with Retail beating budget by more
than $56,000. This was done over a simple retail counter without a proper ski
shop found at most ski areas.
The 7500' Crew returned this past season and we are looking to grow the
program this year with the help of College Dreams.
Mt. Ashland hosted multiple volunteer days where we had people working on
anything from collecting native seed, to painting in the lodge. The largest to date
was just last Saturday where 85 SOU students joined us on the mountain to help
prepare for the upcoming season.
Projects at Mt. Ashland this summer have been mostly limited to updates and
repairs of existing infrastructure in areas guests won't see, but are important in
protecting our valued community asset. Examples include extensive maintenance
to all lifts, snowcats, night lighting, and repairs to our lodge and other buildings.
All in all, the 2015-16 ski season was a huge success, and a tremendous comeback
for the Rogue Valley's local non-profit ski area.
What to expect for the upcoming 2016-2017 Season
Target opening date is Saturday December 10.
Long range forecasts are looking favorable for a good ski season in the Pacific
Northwest. The latest guidance from the National Weather Service indicates that
we can expect a healthy snowpack this winter. Although we are cautiously
optimistic, we will be better prepared than past years to operate on low snow if
that is what is delivered.
Things guests will see are an updated fleet of Burton snowboards, boots and
bindings. A 28K solar installation that will offset 12% of our annual energy usage,
updated on-mountain signage, and other noticeable repairs and improvements to
our more than 50 year old ski area.
There will be a continued focus on our learn to ski and snowboard programs,
especially those discounted programs that serve the greatest number of Rogue
Valley residents.
The Bistro will operate weekends and holidays to address the lines and waiting
the Cafe experienced last season. We will continue to try new menu offerings that
provide healthy and convenient alternatives.
A text alert system will be in place to better communicate real-time road, trail,
and lift information, as well as deals and promotions.
You will see more events this winter than last including more educational outings
like our snow science program.
The Ski Hopper bus will be back once again in an effort to get more people to the
slopes using less carbon as well as car load Monday that encourages carpooling.
We expect another great season, and have lots of returning team members ready
to provide Local Mountain Fun.
Capital planning for next summer is already underway. The team and the board of
directors are working on ideas to address operational issues made evident by last
season.$ s great attendance. We see areas of improvement in the space available
for guests in the lodge, faster more efficient food and beverage service, and
improvements in the rental and ski school experience. Once the architectural
drawings and conceptual plans are complete and approved we will begin
fundraising around these vital improvements so we might begin work next spring.
Although we hope to begin the required environmental work in support of our
Summer recreation plans by next summer, it is likely going to be several years
before that project gets implemented.
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