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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-0930 Special Mtg PACKET MT. ASHLAND ASSOCIATION dba SKI ASHLAND EXPANSION BREAK-EVEN ANALYSIS Mt. Ashland Association operates a ski area that incurs substantial fixed costs that are more than covered by operations of the existing area. It is useful when analyzing the effect of expansion on the financial security of the area to focus on the marginal costs of operating the expanded area, without taking into account the fixed costs of operation that do not increase because of the expansion. Marginal cost analysis is a good measure of the amount of risk involved in the expansion. Estimated additional operating costs for the first phase of expansion under Alternative 2: Building operating costs $ 36,100 Expanded parking operating costs 1,800 Lift operation and maintenance expenses 62,690 Additional power costs 16,800 Additional grooming costs 32,000 Additional ski patrol costs 20,800 Additional monitoring and slope restoration costs 17,000 Total marginal operating cost of expansion $187.19~0 The estimates above are for a normal season of operations beginning approximately December 10 and extending to the middle of April. These costs are variable with the number of days of operation. In reality, most of the costs would not be incurred until operations begin, and they would be proportionally less in a short season. How many visitors would it take.to cover the marginal cost of operations in a normal year? That isthe best news of all - not many. Assumptions are as follows: Tubing Facility Revenue - estimated minimum annual usage, based on other areas' experience, is a low of 4,600 users. The DEI S economic analysis anticipates $15 per visit in revenue including $5 of food and beverage for the users and the people who bring them up to the area. The DEIS analysis did not take into account the approximate 33% cost of sales of the $5 portion of the revenue. Using an estimate of $13 per visit net of food and beverage costs, projected minimum revenue from tubing is $59,800. Skier & Boarder Revenue - The DEIS economic analysis anticipates $25.22 average revenue per skier and snow boarder visit. Assuming a food and beverage cost of $3.22 per visit, the estimated revenue per visit net of food and beverage costs is $22. So how many skiers and boarders does it take to break even after the tubing revenue? Mt. Ashland Association Expansion Breakeven Analysis Page 2 Breakeven calculation: Revenue needed to cover marginal operat, ing costs Tubing revenue projected Revenue needed from skiers and boarders 'Anticipated revenue per visit $187,190 <59,800> $127.390 $22 Additional skier and boarder visits required 5.79~0 Ski Ashland's average attendance over the last eleven years has been a little over 88,000 skier and boarder visits. Our break-even point for all other operations is about 75,000 skiers. The additional lift added in the expansion increases our capacity by 34 percent. Increases needed to break even on the marginal costs of operating the expanded area only require a 6.6 percent increase based on our eleven-year average usage. Breakeven only requires that the new lift receive a 19 percent utilization rate to cover the additional variable costs for operating the expansion area. It is difficult to find comparative numbers from expansions of other ski areas that really make any sense. It is extremely unusual to have a 40 year old established ski area making a modest expansion of this nature. Our present terrain is so far out of balance with expected ski area norms (too steep, short, and difficult for the novice and family skier) that expectation of an increase in usage sufficient to cover increased operating costs is not only reasonable, but also extremely conservative. The expansion is a "slam dunk" when it comes to the financial viability. The opponents of the expansion are not ski area operators - nor are they experienced business pe6ple with a reasonable ability to analyze the financial condition and operations of the Organization. The management of the Mt. Ashland Association has a combined 125 years of experience in the ski industry, and they receive the benefit of active input and policy setting from a local volunteer board of directors. They have drawn, at considerable expense, on the expertise of the best ski area designers available. The expansion is well thought out, conservative, and financially reasonable for the association to enter into. Expansion will not threaten the long-term viability of the ski area, but will instead insure a future that will provide great family recreation and wonderful educational experiences to the children of our region. MT. ASHLAND ASSOCIATION dba SKI ASHLAND STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION JUNE 30, 2003 ASSETS Cash & Investmems Receivables Inventories Deposits Total Current Assets $ 614,057 2,442 26,357 2,250 645,106 Capital Assets -Net of Accumulated Depreciation Contributed Facility Lease - Net of Accumulated Amortization Total Fixed Assets Total Assets 1,551,843 1,059,045 2,610,888 LIABILITIES Accounts Payable & Accrued Expenses Capital Lease Payment Total Current Liabilities 57,241 48,759 106,000 Deferred Revenue (Advance Pass Sales) Total Liabilities 87,385 193,385 NETASSETS Total Liabilities&N~ Assets 3,062,609 Summarized from June 30, 2003 reviewed financial statements prepared by Moss Adams LLP Net Working Capital (Current Assets Minus Current Liabilities) $539,106 Current Ratio (currem assets divided by current liabilities) 6.1 to 1 Net assets include board-designated working capital reserves that are available to support operations before the season begins Camila Thomdike AHS Student 369 Granite St. Ashland, OR 97520 Dear Sir: I am so grateful to the Forest Service for all the time and effort its employees have put into the proposed Mt. Ashland Expansion since 1984, and I hope beyond hope that this last attempt to approve it will succeed. There are so many important reasons why the Expansion needs to happen that it is difficult for me to see the reasons behind the opposition. Mt. Ashland means a great deal to me and has been a huge part of my life growing up. I started my life on the snow cross country skiing with my family as an infant and toddler, then joined MARA and began downhill skiing at the age of six. I ski raced for MARA until High School, where I joined the ski team and have been a member of it for two years. I love skiing, I love the snow, and I love Mt. Ashland. I also do my part in maintaining it. In Middle School I participated in the summer clean-up community service program, and just this stunmer my family and I (plus my boyfriend whom I dragged along with me) went up to the mountain and picked up trash, as we did the summer before. I am a member of the NRDC and Greenpeace, and try to do my part to keep our world a green and beautiful place. But 1 know that the Mt. Ashland Association also cares about doing the least possible amount of damage (which is barely significant) to the mountain, and has spent huge amounts of money conducting research to find the best possible plan to create the least environmental impact. I support Alternative 2 in the Mt. Ashland DEIS for a variety of reasons. Our mountain desperately needs more beginner and intermediate terrain: the runs are overcrowded, dangerous, and much too steep for inexperienced skiers and snowboarders. A hazardous conflict exists between racers, snowboarders, children, Special Olympics athletes, beginners, experts, and all athletes using the mountain: we are caught in the struggle for space. I've been brutally knocked down by a snowboarder as a young racer near Windsor Chair, and can assuredly state that the reason was the high density of people merging and the uneven distribution of skiiers and snowboarders. My sister has been injured by another skier as well, and I could name many others who have collided due to crowded runs. Also, our guest service facilities are antiquated and crowded. The lines for food and the restroom in the lodge are much too long and there's barely any eating space at lunchtime anymore. We need new facilies to serve the various needs of all on the mountain, such as the new base area building, the facilities at the top of the new LC-6 chairlift, the "arrival services" near the present rental shop, and the "moraine lodge" at the base of the bowl, all proposed by Alternative 2. The proposed tubing facilities would be a wonderful addition to recreational activities on the mountain. While there are locations before getting to the actual resort where people can tube, there are many times when there is insufficient snow and too many people to tube safely. There are many people who don't necessarily have the interest or money to ski or snowboard and would be greatly benefit from the tubing area. Lastly, the Mt. Ashland Expansion needs to happen because so many people have dedicated years and years of their lives to this cause. Mt. Ashland is completely community-owned and operated, a situation that just a few other mountains in the whole US can boast of. We are so very lucky to be able to recreate at a resort that w._~e own, not some private group completely disconnected from the citizens. Mt. Ashland is an important part of our community and needs to grow as its usage increases, otherwise it could see a devastating decrease in profit, interest, and safety. Sincerely, Camila Thomdike Page 1 of 2 SULA Technologies From: To: Sent: Subject: SULA Technologies <sula@mind.net> <berteauf@aslhand. or. us> Thursday, October 02, 2003 11:20 AM Mt Ashland Comment 01 October 2003 Dear Mr. Mayor and City Council Members: Thank you for requesting opinions on the Mt Ashland Ski Expansion. I wish you patience and open minds during the challenging debates to follow. Recent headlines in the Daily Tidings remind us that Murphy's Law stating that "In business anything that can go wrong, will go wrong" is still alive and well: -Denny's Restaurant shuts down without ever having made a profit in Ashland - not even close. -Ashland Soy Works is forced to close after 25 years in business. -Project A eliminates a significant number of its positions and curtails some of its activities. -Darex - yes, I said Darex - undergoes downsizing and is obliged to sell its Drill Doctor division. -Ashland Fiber Network announces millions of dollars of debt, with no relief in sight. As you know, the Forest Service (using funds provided by Mt Ashland Ski Assoc) hired a Portland consulting agency to do a financial analysis of the various ski expansion proposals. Their report concluded that future revenue figures, developed by the consultant agency, show that the ski area is unlikely to make enough money to pay for the final stage of expansion. They also concluded that the only proposal in the DEIS which is predicted to be successful even if attendance is below average is an option resembling an alternative put forth by a local environmental group collaborating with a skier & snow boarder coalition. Please seriously ponder the following: We may reasonably conclude from the DEIS that a dedicated volunteer group of outdoor enthusiasts came up with a proposal which in some important regards is financially more responsible than the option proposed by Mt Ash/and Ski Association. Of course the board was quick to differ with this implication by having their accountant and board member Mr. Tom Reid state that the future revenues assumed were "ridiculously conservative". In addition, the manager (Mr. Hanson) claims that the v/ew from proposed run 12 (an intrusion hotly contested by environmentalists) '~vould be a stepping stone for people to come into the sports of skiing and snowboarding". If these comments are representative of the board's depth of thinking, I fear for the citizens of Ashland, who ultimately bear the burden of financial risk. Need I remind the council of the anguishing AFN scenario? If the experienced businesses cited above are encountering financial difficulty, why should we put our faith in the crystal ball predictions of an accountant/board member and the manager of a community non-profit organization who as far as I know are not held to the gut-wrenching decisions, and consequences of those decisions, which make up the day-to-day life of a for-profit business-owner? And no, Mr. Mayor, I am not suggesting that the council cop out and turn the ski area over to private hands. In spite of some regrettable outbursts during Tuesday's meeting, I hope you came away with an appreciation for the dedication, intelligence and eloquence of the many participants - often representing our younger generation - who are asking you to take a position opposing options #2 and #6. Ignoring those numerous solicited comments could forever brand as a sham your future calls for public input. 1012/0~ Page 2 of 2 In closing I ask you to mull over the relevance of Murphy's Law to the Mt Ashland expansion and to consider the following quotations as well: '~Vhat I need is a one-handed economist!" A quote from Harry Truman, commenting on his frustration in trying to follow the recommendations of economists, who by nature are prone to say "On one hand ........ ; but on the other hand ........ ". I suspect you may be in sympathy with Pres. Truman's predicament in that you ara receiving reports from experts who can draw radically different conclusions. Since the ultimate truth behind many of the scientific and financial issues facing you may never be known, I ask you to accept that to "err on the side of caution" is a public official's right and even his or her duty. "When in doubt, don't". A quote from my mother-in-law. Of course this is not to be applied universally, but nevertheless this is a useful tool for government officials who have accepted the responsibility of protecting a city's resources. Thanking you again for devoting precious time to this important issue, I remain Respectfully yours, Darwin Thusius, Ph.D. Owner & Founder Sula Technologies 415 Williamson Way Ashland, OR 97520 USA Tel. +1-(541)-552-0140 Fax +1-(541)552-0139 e-mail sula~mind.net website http://www.sulatech.com 10/2/03 Page 1 of 1 SULA Technolo~lies From: To: Sent: Attach: Subject: SULA Technologies <sula~mind.net> <berteauf~ashland.or.us> Thursday, October 02, 2003 11:30 AM Mt Ashland Comment.emi Mt Ashland Ms Be~eau: Thank you foraccepting my commentstoday(see affachment)-Infostructure was down yesterdayafternoon & evening. Best wishes, D. Thusius 10/2103 KENTRO° KENTRO® Body Balance · P.O. Box 963, Ashland, OR 97520 · 5411552-0922 KENTRO" KENTRO® Body Balance · P.O. Box 963, Ashland, OR 97520 · 541/552-0922 Mayor Alan DeBoer and Ashland City Council Members 20 East Main Street Ashland, OR 97520 Sept~thber 24, 2003 RE: Letter of Support for Alternative 2 of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion Hearing Tuesday, September 24, 2003 Dear Mayor DeBoer and City Council Members: I am writing to you on behalf of the Board of Directors of the Ashland Chamber of Commerce for your next City Council Meeting, Tuesday, September 30th, 2003. We wish to express our total and unanimous support of Alternative 2 of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion plan now being studied in the revised Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DESI) as required by the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) review by the Forest Service. The Mt. Ashland Ski Area is a unique recreational asset which has served Rogue Valley residents and visitors to our region for over 39 years. The Mt. Ashland's Association's modest proposal for the addition of novice intermediate terrain will benefit the area, environment and the local economy. The ski area not only provides a positive environment for children and families, it also boosts the local and regional economy in the winter when our existing attractions and amenities are underutilized. Mt Ashland is a community owned organization which has demonstrated uncommon service and programs to our entire region. They have developed a thoughtful and well-planned alternative to meet the growing recreational, economic and social needs of the region. The Ashland Chamber of Commerce represents over 600 businesses and is a major supporter of the ski area's endeavor to improve their facility. Not only does the ski area attract new business and families to our area, it also greatly enhances the livability in Southern Oregon. The proposal would insure the economic viability of one of the few community owned ski areas (which is losing its market share to other areas) and make sure that Mt. Ashland can serve the needs of future generations. We are proud to have been part of the "Save the Mt. Ashland Campaign" that created one ora few community-owned ski areas in North America. For a four decades history, it has pioneered skiing and snowboarding in the region serving local residents. The organization is successful due to the over 300 volunteers within the community who serve as Board of Directors and assists as hosts for guests of the mountain. Each season, 2,700 school age youth in the Rogue Valley benefit from participating in their ski and snowboard programs. As a community partner, over $1.5 million is given back to community organizations in the form of donated lift tickets, instruction and special events. The organization offers over 200 jobs each year to residents and students creating an economic impact of $8.5 million annually into the regional economy. It is a community asset in serving the entire region in a thoughtful, planned manner to meet the growing recreational, social and economic needs. ~o East Main Street · P.O. Box ~36o · Ashland, Oregon 97520-0046 (541) 48a-3486, ext ~5 ° (54~) 48a-235o, fax www.ashlandchamber, com Letter of Support for Alternative 2 Page 2 of 2 The Chamber of Commerce promotes Ashland as a place to visit year round, with special events created to farget the winter season, such as the Festival of Light. Cooperative advertising campaigns highlighting the ski area with area amenities draw people in the winter to Ashland bringing in lodging and dining tax revenues and supporting small businesses. The proposed improvements will enhance the economic viability of Mt. Ashland. By building a larger local skier/snowboarder base, and by having the capacity to serve more skiers and snowboarders during good snow years, Mt. Ashland will be able to set aside more money for improvements, and create a better cushion against poor snow years. The long-term economic viability of the ski area will thus be enhanced. Tubing and similar low-skill level programs provide an outdoor activity that the whole family can do together regardless of experience or athletic ability. There are no specialized clothing requirements and costs are modest. Most importantly, tubing and similar activities introduce new participants to outdoor winter recreation with the prospect of conversion to boarding and skiing. This of course, adds to our ability to attract a wider market to Ashland in the winter. In closing, the Ashland Chamber of Commerce is in total and unanimous support of Alternative 2 for the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion plan now being studied in the revised Drat~ Environmental Impact Statement as required by the National Environmental Protection Act review by the Forest Service, for all of the above reasons. Sincerely, Dana Welsh President, Ashland Chamber of Commerce Executive Director SS:ce C~ John Schuyler, Acting Ashland District Ranger, U.S. Forest Service Scott Conroy, Forest Supervisor, Rogue River National Forest RESOLUTION NO. (:~-~,~--~ A RESOLUTION in support of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area expansion project. WHEREAS, the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Sld Area will provide economic development for'the region and tourism and recreation for the entire valley, and WI4RREAS, all environmental issues in the EIS have determined the expansion will not harm the Ashland Watershed or the endangered plants; and WNF. REAS, the expanded area will develop more easy and intermediate runs, which will be much safer for the novice skier and the senior citizen skier; and WHEREAS, the current area is at cap~city, which creates safety problems with the mixed downhill uses, i.e. s~.owboarding and s~ing ~and by developing more area we will be able to meet the capacity needs~ now, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THECITY OF MEDFORD, OREGON, that the City of Medford hereby supports the Mt. Ashland Ski Area expansion project PASSEI~ by th~ Council and signed by me in authentication of its passage this / ~ ~- day of ~_~ '~. tt~ _~ ~V''' ,2003. AOTIN City Recorder Mayor STATE OF OREGON ) COUNTY OF JACKSON ) I, Beverly Sandblast, City~Recorde£ of the City of _l~edford, d;o.h, ereby certify that I have prepared the foregoing copy of ~'.~O I/.C/3'~ ~' -,R'~' have carefully emmpared the same with the original thereof on file in my office, and that it is correct, true and complete transcript there from and of the whole thereof. Dated at Medford, Oregon, this dayof v~-~t"J~,/~'~' .2003.. THE CITY MAYOR www. ci.medford.or, us September 10, 2003 The Honorable Alan DeBoer and City Counc'fl 20 E. Main St. Ashland, OR 97520 CITY OF MEDFORD 411 WEST 8TH STREET MEDFORD, OREC-:-:-:-~N 97501 TELEPHONE (541) 774-2000 FAX: (541) 774-2522 E-mail: cnclmedg~ci.medford.or, us Dear Mayor DeBoer and City Council: On behalf of the City of Medford, we wish to express our support of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion. We feel the Mt. Ashland Ski Area is critical to the economic fiature of our community and the Southern Oregon Region. The ElS determined the expansion will not harm the Ashland Watershed orthe endangered plants. The Mt. Ashland Ski Area is a unique, recreational asset, which has served guests and residents of our region for the past 37 years. The ski area provides a posRive environment for children and families. It also boosts the local and regional economy in the winter when the exte~'lve tourist facilities are underutilized. They are a non-profit, community owned organization, which has demonstrated uncommon service and programs to our entire area. The Medford City Council, as stated in Resolution No. 7066, "recognizes and acknowledges the importance of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area to the present and future economy of the City of Medford and to the quality of life enjoyed by the City's residents." We support the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area, which will meet the capacity needs and provide for improved safety for all users. Sincerely, Lindsay D. Berr3~n~an Mayor cc: John Schuyler, Forest Service Jeff Hansen, Mt. Ashland Continuous Improvement - Customer 8ervi~e Mayor's Statement in Support of the Mt Ashland Ski Area Expansion WHEREAS, the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area will provide economic development for the region and tourism and recreation for the entire valley; and WHEREAS, all environmental issues in the ElS have determined the expansion will not harm the Ashland Watershed or the endangered plants; and WHEREAS, the expanded area will develop more easy and intermediate runs, which will be much safer for the novice skier and the senior citizen skier; WHEREAS, the current area is at capacity, which creates safety problems with the mixed downhill uses, i.e. snowboarding and skiing and by developing more area we will be able to meet the capacity needs. Be It Resolved, that the undersigned Southern Oregon Mayors do hereby support the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WE hereunto set our hand this 9ts day of September 2003 Lindsay D. Be~ryman, Mayor of/fvledford Tom Anderson, M~ayor of Shady Cove 510 West 1st Street · P.O. Box 666 · Phoenix, Oregon 97535 · (541) 535-1955 O'R'E'G.O-N FAX (541) 535-5769 September 17, 2003 Mayor Lindsay Berryman 411 West 8th Street Medford, OR 97504 RE: Mt. Ashland Ski Expansion Dear Mayor Berryman, On Monday, September 15, 2003 the City of Phoenix voted to support the Ski Ashland Expansion Project. Although we have great respect and acknowledge the merit in both sides of this issue, it is our belief that the sixty five acre expansion will enhance the current Mt. Ashland Ski Area through the creation of an intermediate slope, provide greater economic development for Jackson County and still protect the integrity of the local environment. Sincerely, Mayor Larry-Parducci Phoenix City Council RECEIVED CI~Y M~.NAGEB8 OFFICE SEP 003 Mayor's Statement in Support of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion WHEREAS, the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area will provide economic development for the region and tourism and recreation for the entire valley; and WHEREAS, all environmental issues m the ElS have determined the expansion will not harm the Ashland Watershed or the endangered plants; and WHEREAS, the expanded area will develop more easy and intermediate runs, which will be much safer for the novice skier and the senior citizen skier; and WIIEREAS, the current area is at capacity, which creates safety problems with the mixed downhill uses, i.e. snowboarding and skiing and by developing more area we will be able to meet the capacity needs. Be It Resolved, that the undersigned Southern Oregon Mayors do hereby support the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WE hereunto set our hand this 9~ day of September 2003 Hank Williams September 15, 2003 City of Ashland Oregon 20 E. Main Street Ashland, Oregon 97520 Mayor Deanna Gregory Deputy City Recorder Re: Support of Mt. Ashland ski area expansion Dear Ashland City Council: This letter is to express my support of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area expansion. I will not comment further on the environmental impacts or endangered plants of the ski area expansion since the environmental impact statement adequately addresses them and they will be minimal. My coinments will focus on the economic impacts to the area and safety. Numerous executives of firms that want to locate here are skiers and would not locate in the Rogue Valley if the area were not active. The same can be said for the doctors who the hospitals are trying to .attract. The ski area is an important part of the livability that we all want to Preserve. Thc school children fi.om Central Point schools are bussed to thc ski area, which provides good activity for them in snow boarding and skiing. This keeps them busy and out of other trouble. I personally give up skiing since Mt. Ashland lacks intermediate areas. I got tired of the "bunny hilt" and took the lift to the top and:on the way down injured my lmee. The intermediate area that would be created would, however, reduce injury to others and is a safety factor. Also people fi.om the Rogue Valley would not need to travel to Bend in the winter for skiing and auto accidents involved in that travel would be reduced. Please approve the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski area. sincerely, Hank Williams Mayor 155 South Second Street · Central Point~ OR 97502 · (541) 664-3321 · Fax (541)664-6384 Mayor's Statement in Support of the Mt. Ashland Ski /lrea Expansion WHEREAS, the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area will provide economic development for the region and tourism and recreation for the entire valley; and WHEREAS, all environmental issues in the EIS have determined the expansion will not harm the Ashland Watershed or the endangered plants; and WHEREAS, the expanded area will develop more easy and intermediate runs, which will be much safer for the novice skier and the senior citizen skier; and WHEREAS, the current area is at capacity, which creates safety problems with the mixed downhill uses, i.e. snowboarding and skiing and by developing more area we will be able to meet the capacity needs. Be It Resolved, that the undersigned Southern Oregon Mayors do hereby support the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WE hereunto set our hand this 9th day of September 2003 Lindsay D. Berryman, Mayor of Medford 09/19/2003 FRI 15:59 FAX 541 582 0937 CITY OF ROGUE RIYER L~O01/001 Mayor's St.~!ement ~ Support oft he Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expanslon WHEREAS, the expar~,'ion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area will provide economic development for the region and tourism and recreation for the entire valley; and WHEREAS, all em, ironmental i~sues in the ElS have determined the expansion will not I~arm the Ashland Watershed or the endangered plant~: and WHEREAS, the expanded area will develop more easy and intermediate ruff% which will be much safer far the novice skier and the senior citizen skier; and WtlEREA$, the current area is at capacity, which creates safety problems with the mixed downhill use~, i.e, snowboarding and sl~ing and by developing more area we will be able to meet the capacity need~. Be It Resolved, that the undersigned Southern Oregon Mayor~ do herel~y support the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. IN WJTNE$$ WHEREOF, WE hereunto set our hand this 9~ day of September 2003 Leigh Luca$, Mayor Citv of Roaue River Mayor's Statement in Support of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expanslan WHEREAS, the expansion of the Mt. Ashland $1a' Area will provide economic development for the region and tourism and recreation for the entire valley; and WHEREAS, all e~nvironmental i~gues in the ElS have determined the expansion will not harm the Ashland Watershed or the endangered plants: and WHEREAS, the expanded area will develop mom eaz'y ~ intermediate runs, whiclt will be much eafer for the novice skier and the senior citizen zkter: and WHEREJIS, the current area i~ at capach),, which create~ $afety problems with the mixed downhill u~ez, i.e. snowboarding and sk~mg and by developing more area we will beable to meet the capacity needs. Be It Resolved, that the undersigned Southern Oregon Mayors do hereby support the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Skl Area. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, WE hereunto set our hand Ibis o~ day ofSq, t~ 2003 Leigh Luca$, Msyor City of ~o~u~_ R~ve~ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE E-MAIL: gpcoc@grantspasschamber, org WEB: www. grantspasschamber, org September 17, 2003 Scott Conroy, Forest Supervisor Rogue River National Forest P.O. Box 520 Medford, OR 97504 Dear Sir: The Grants Pass/Josephine County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors wants you to know that we continue to be supportive of the expansion of.the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. We believe that the proposed expan~lon plan i.s ~ long standing need for more noviCe~i ski/sn0wboard runs. For the good of the area, and the communities that benefit, we fully support Alternative 2, the~proposed action. We appreciate all of the hard work you ~and your staff have put into this decision. Thanks for the opportunity to comment. P.O. BOX 970 · PHONE (541) 476-7717 · FAX: (541) 476-9574 · GRANTS PASS, OREGON 97528-0290 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS COUNTY OF JACKSON, STATE OF OREGON IN THE MATTER OF SUPPORT OF ) ALTERNATIVE 2 EXPANSION ) OF MT. ASHLAND ) ORDER No. Whereas the Jackson County Board of Commissioners recognizes the environmental concerns have been met on the proposed expansion under Alternative 2 of the EIS; and Whereas current available ski runs are 78% advanced/expert and only 11% beginner and novice ski runs; and Whereas Jackson Coumy and the region has a growing population of senior citizens needing the gentle beginner and novice nms; and Whereas the advanced/expert runs are a safety hazard when runs are crowded and when used by inexperienced skiers. With growing populations using the area, more of the runs are Crowded; and Whereas the expanded area will balance distribution of skiers and snowboarders, offer beginner and intermediate runs, widen trails and allow access without having to use expert runs; and Whereas Mt. Ashland Ski Area is a great economic boon to the region, providing much needed tourism and recreation during the season when the seasonal Shakespeare Theater is not operating. Now, therefore, be it resolved the Jackson County Board of Commissioners supports the expansion .of Mt. Ashland under ~Altemative 2 in the 2003 Envirqnmental_ImpaetStatement.~ ~ DatedYhis 3~~ day of September, 2003, at Medford, Oregon. ~t JACKSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Sue i~pillas, Commissioner Dave Gilmo~ur,~Co/~mmissi~~ ~ JACKSON COUNTY Ovcgol'l Board of Commissioners Dave Gilmour, MD (541) 774-6117 Jack Walker (541) '/74-6118 Sue Kuplllas (541) 774-6119 Fax (541) 774-6705 10 South Oakdale, Room 200 Medford, Oregon 97501 Mt Ashland testimony Tonight I speak on behalf of the entire board of commissioners in support of the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. I bring you a resolution, that outlines support from the Jackson County Board of Commissioners. We agree with the expansion, yet believe, the decision is yours. We defer to minor changes that might deviate from Alt. 2. I have experience skiing on Mt. Ashland, in fact leamed how to ski there. Therefore I have a personal interest in supporting the expansion, but it is not my personal gratification that brings me to speak to you tonight. It is because of my concerns regarding regional economic development, ski safety and making sure environmental issues are addressed. Jackson County has growing population and a growing number of skiers and snowboarders using the mountain. With only 11% novice and intemlediate slopes, many inexperienced skiers are trying to ski and snowboard on the less populated advanced/expert runs. This causes a safety issue not only for the inexperienced individual, but for all skiers and snowboarders on the slope. Many of our skiers are senior citizens and this puts them/us at risk both on the intemiediate and novice slopes which are very crowded and on the advanced/expert slopes. So Safety is a great concern. 78% of slopes are advanced/expert. I have skied in 10 or more US ski areas and even in Europe.' All of the other areas have far more balance between Advanced/expert and novice/beginning slopes. Like many skiers, I learned to ski as an adult, and Mt. Ashland was a very very difficult place to learn. I have heard stories about people who have quit skiing because of the difficulty of our slopes at Mt. Ashland. Furthermore, Mt. Ashland expansion will benefit tourism. Ashland is a great tourist town, with shops and Shakespear as well as the other theater events during the spring, summer and fall. The winter season in Ashland would suffer if it weren't for Mt. Ashland and the skiers. Mt. Ashland not only provides healthy recreation for our youth, and young adult college students, but attracts visitors from a large regional area. We need the trade during the winter. It certainly is an attraction for Southern Oregon University students as accessible and affordable recreation. The expansion will provide additional employment, especially helping SOU students. As one very active in economic development and attracting good companies with family wage jobs, I can tell you, having a ski area within 1 hour of most of our populated areas in the county, is a huge selling factor. Winter as well as summer recreation is important to attract people in management of large companies like Bear Creek Corporation, one of the counties largest employers. As chair of the Jackson County Urban renewal project in White City, I work to keep companies like Kodak, BOC gases and CertainTeed, as well as Boise, all in our industrial park. Having winter recreation so close is a big selling factor along with our education facilities, and cultural attractions. I have 'seen how this EIS addresses all the environmental issues that have been raised. Yes, a few trees will be cut down, but very few. The ski area will not affect the Ashland watershed and with the winter snow pack, the streams are not affected. I am satisfied that all the sensitive environmental issues have been carefully addressed. Every human action requires trade offs with the environment. We must be certain that. the trade offs are acceptable, looking at the entire forest system. The forests were created with the intention of multiple use, and this meets the goals. Finally, I personally am only an intermediate skier, but will have a birthday tomorrow. I'm getting closer to the age where I might have to be more careful and only ski the gentle slopes. Many of my friends are already looking for easier skiing. So I personally want to see the ski area expanded to accommodate our senior citizens. Thank you for allowing me to speak. I urge you to support the expansion of Mt. Ashland. Sue Kupillas Jackson County Commissioner September 28, 2003 Ashland Mayor & City Councilors Ann Seltzer City Hall, 20 East Main Street Ashland, Oregon 97520 Re: Mount Ashland Dear Mayor & Councilors, We are writing to urge you to support the Mount Ashland Ski Area Expansion Alternate 2 in the Forest Service DEIS. We have been enjoying the benefits offered by our locally owned & operated winter snow park for over 30 years. It is a very important asset to our community, recreationally, socially and economically, but it is in dire need of this very well thought out proposed expansion that is necessary for it to continue to be financially viable. Even though Alternate 6 is similar in scope, it would be more expensive and involve a lift crossing diagonally across the mountain and would not be very esthetically pleasing. The other proposed alternatives do not meet the primary goal of creating a more balanced mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain without adding unaffordable expense. We have talked with countless numbers of people & families over the years who are intimidated by its predominately advanced trails and who will drive two or more hours each way to Mount Shasta or Bend for the weekend because Mount Ashland seriously lacks beginner & intermediate terrain. Alternate 2 will finally give us that kind of terrain. Also, Shawn has been a Ski Patroller here for 15 of his 30 years at Mount Ashland and have seen first hand, the effects of overcrowded slopes and that relationship to increased injuries and more dangerous conditions on the mountain. This is currently a very small ski area and the population of the Rogue Valley has tripled since the ski area opened over 30 years ago. This is an extremely modest expansion proposal, especially compared to the large resorts like Mount Bachelor in Bend that covers over 20 times the acreage. The Mount Ashland Association (MAA) has developed a well-planned, environmentally friendly proposal that will not harm the Ashland watershed or degrade our drinking water quality or quantity. Paula Brown, the City Engineer, reports that any impacts on erosion and water quality by the proposed expansion would be "negligible" (Webster's dictionary: "So unimportant that it may be safely discarded..."). Also, the City's own Finance Director has said that MAA's assets far exceed the cost of site restoration required by the Forest Service lease should it ever become insolvent and can be mitigated by an appraisal and funding agreement with MAA. The fire hazard issue, although remote, can also be mitigated by prevention and precautionary measures. Shawn is a Professional Land Surveyor and performed all the surveying and wetlands mapping for the expansion project. He worked very closely with the inter-disciplinary teams and scientists assembled by the Forest Service, MAA and ski area consultants which included experts in geology, soil science, hydrology, wildlife biologists, botanists, etc, with lifetimes of experience, PhD's & Masters degrees in their fields of expertise. Having the privilege to work with these people made him realize the commitment involved by all parties to make this project environmentally sound, not because they had to, but because they wanted to. Unfortunately, the very vocal minority that oppose the expansion, do not offer their opinions based on such expertise and knowledge, but emotional hysteria and not facts. It appears to us that their campaign of instilling fear and dread is a ploy to attempt to persuade the many people that are not skiers (calling it an elitist sport) and do not know the real facts. One would think by reading the letters to the Daily Tidings, which are written by the same four or five people over and over, that the Mount Ashland management was a bunch of rape and pillagers rather than people that love, respect and are committed to protect the beauty and magic of our natural world up there. We have been life-long ardent proponents of wilderness preservation and environmental protection and have spent more time on Mount Ashland than probably all the expansion opponents combined, and we feel that Alternate 2 is a quality and meticulously well- thought out proposal and ask you to endorse it. If you don't believe us, just come up sometime and look into the happy smiling faces of all the little kids (and big kids) and you will see the joy and magic this easily accessible winter mountain experience brings to people of all ages and diverse backgrounds and what a great asset it is to our community. And if you don not believe us on the technical and environmental effects, just read all the expert testimony and reports of the Forest Service DEIS and the City's own experts. Respectfully, Shawn Kampmann & Laurie Miller 1520 Pinecrest Terrace Ashland, Oregon 97520 (541) 488-1464 United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region - Pacific Southwest Region July 2003 DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion Rogue River National Forest Ashland Ranger District Klamath National Forest Scott River Ranger District CHAPTER VI LIST OF PREPARERS AND CONTRIBUTORS CHAPTER VI LIST OF PREPARERS AND CONTRIBUTORS This Draft EIS document was prepared by the USDA Forest Service, Rogue River National Forest. A Forest Service Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) developed the range of alternatives in the EIS, prepared portions of the EIS, and provided technical review of consultant research and analysis. The following coordinators, resource specialists, and consultants participated in the overall preparation of the Draft EIS. A. FOREST SERVICE PROJECT COORDINATORS The following Rogue River National Forest personnel provided leadership for this project or served as project coordinators during different phases of the project. Chief responsibilities included conducting the environmental analysis process, public participation and review, organization of draft and final reports, and documentation under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). CONTRIBUTOR EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CONTRIBUTION Linda Duffy (IDT) Undergraduate studies in communication and Management of NEPA process; District Ranger, Ashland leademhip, office adminislration, and environmental delegated Responsible Official for RD resources and education. 23 years FS; 8 years as analysis and public participation. District Ranger on Ashland Ranger District; previously served as Forest Staff for Recreation, Lands, and Minerals and Forest Public Affairs Officer. Ken Origsby {IBT) BA Biology. 30years in FS environmental planning, Walter/Editor; overell document Foresl NEPA Coordinator 3ublic involvement, and NEPA review, analysis and compilation, editing, and review. Supervisor's Office documentation. Analysis and documentation of Land Uses and Regulations including Roadless and Forest Plan Amendments. Steve Johnson (IDT) BA English; graduate work in American Literature. 23 Interdisciplinary Team Leader and Recreation Specialist, years. FS; 13 years Snow Ranger/Permit Project Coordinalor. Analysis and Sisldyou Zone Administrsfor/Winter Sports specialist and Cultural documentetion of Recreation, Resource Coordinator; 9 years ski industry: ski Snowfall, Avalanche, Noise, Minerals, inslroctor- rase director, i Heritage sections, and overall writing/editing. Don Boucher (lOT) Undergraduate s~dles Foreslry and Engineering. 24 Analysis and documentation of Resource Planner and years FS; in FS planning, NEPA documentation and Proposed Action, Roads and Analyst, Cascade Zone Ecological Assesemenl Documentation; and Watershed Analysis, Arc-View Geographic Information Systems. mapping, cumulative effects, consequence analysis and overell writing/editing. Draft ElS (July 2003) VI - 1 Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion B. FOREST SERVICE RESOURCE SPECIALISTS The following Rogue River and Siskiyou National Forest personnel provided resource analysis and documentation for this project and/or provided review for the analysis that was conducted. A few individuals currently work at other locations or for other agencies. CONTRIBUTOR EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CONTRIBUTION Thorsas Atzet, Ph.D. BS Forest ,Science; MS Physiological Ecology; Ph.D. Analysis and documentation for Southwest Oregon Area Forest Ecology. 34 years FS and 28 years as Ama landscape ecology and review of the Ecologist, Supervisor's Ecologist for the Rogue River, Siskiyou, and Umpqua Physical and Biologicel sections. Oflico National Forests. Has written numerous published articles. Brad Cownover BA Visual Art; graduate work in landscape architecture. Analysis and documentatio~ of scenic Landscape Amhitect, 5 years at FS and 4 year at BLM as Landscape quality, three-dimensional renderings, BLM, Washington D.C. Architect. parking lot design, and selected map preparation. David Clayton BS Biology. 10 years as FS Wildlife BiologisL 3 years Wildlife analysis and documentation, Wildlife Biologist, USFWS, with USFWS. including review of Northwest Forest Roseburg, OR Plan Survey and Manage wildlife species. Ellen Goheen BS Forestry, MS Plant Pathology. 20 years Pacific Analysis and documentation of Forest Plant Pathologist, SW Northwest Region Insecl and Disease Group, last nine Health (insects and disease). Oregon Insect and ~eare in SW Oregon. Disease Sentice Center Brent Hasty BS Geography and secendary teaching certh3cate. 13 Update of the District's database and Geographic Information years with FS with 10 years in GIS. information resource support. Systems Manager, Siskiyou Zone Peter Jones (IDT) BS Geology and MS Geological Engineering. 22 years Analysis and documentation of Geotechnical Engineer, pdmafily as geologist. Cert. Engineering Geologist, sediment production, slope stability Supervtsor's Office OR; Reg. Professional Geologist, OR. computer analysis, snow compaction, and parking lot design. Jeff LaLande, Ph.D. BS thfemational Affairs; MA Archaeology and History; Completed hedtsge analysis and Forest Archaeologist, Ph.D. Hlatory. 22 years as Forest Archaeologist. Has documentation in compliance with the Supervisors Office wdtfen several published books and numerous adides. , National Histodc Preservation Act and cenducfed archaeological surveys and documentation. SusanMaiyo(IDT) BSBiutogy. 12 years as FS Fish and Aquatic Biologist, Fishefiesaodaquatics. Provided Fish and Aquatic Biologist, resource management monitodng, and watershed analysis and dooumenfetion of Siskiyou Zone restoration. Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive fish species. Patricta Martinez BS Forest and Resource Management. 13 years FS Provided Plant Series and Plant Ecologist, Southwest with 12 years in the Ecology program in Southwest Association information. Oregon, Siskiyou NF Oregon. Supervisor's Office Joel Pagel BS Wildlife Management; cormntiy in Ph.D. program - Provided Wildlife review and Wildllife Biologist, stslus changes of Federally listed Threatened and documentation. Siskiyou Zone Endangered spedes. 19 years Wildlife Biologist; including seven years as Forest ESA specialisL Les Robertson AA Technical Ads. 32 years FS experience in timber Timber removal analysis and Staff Officer, Recreation, harvest administralion, special forest products, range, documentation. Range, Witdernaes, and and recreation. Contracting Officer for timber sales. Timber, Siskiyou Zone Currently Fire Management Officer on Siskiyou Zone. Draft ElS (July 2003) VI - 2 Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion CON'~IBUTOR EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CONTRIBUTION Wayne Rolie (IDT) BS Science-Math; graduate studies in botany. 14 yearn Botanical analysis and documentation, Forest Botanist, as Forest Botanist and several yearn as private including review of NW Forssl Plan Supervisor's Oflce consultant botanist. Survey and Manage botanical spedes. Dan Sitton (ID]') 8S Geology. 24 years FS experience in engineering Slope stability and landslide analysis, Engineering Geologist, geology and 5 years private consulting. Reg. documentation, and mapping. Su@ervisor's Office Professional Geologist, OR. Dave Steinfeid (IDT) BS Soil Science; post-graduate stsdies in geology. 9 Analysis and documentation of soil Soil Scientist, Assistant years as FS soil scientist and 20 years at J. Herbert processes including erosion, Nursery Manager- J. Stone Nursery as a seedling cultedst and Assistant sedimentation, and site productivity. Herbert Stone Nursery Manager. Fred Way BS Resource Management and Wildiend Ecology; MS Conducted and ted 2001 ~2202 spotted Wildlife Biologist. CurrentlyInternational Agricultural Development/Range and owl surveys. Dislfict Ranger, Grsenbder Wildlife Ecology; graduate studies in TES species and RD, Mor~ngahela NF wildlife biology. 23 years FS. Lee Webb (IDT) BS Wildlife Biology; MS Wildlife Management. 27 years Wildlife analysis and documentation, Wildlife Biologisl as Siskiyou NF Wildlife Biologist and the last 7 years in including review of NW Forest Plan Suparviser's Office same capacity for the Rogue River NF. botanical species. Tami Zaldana Undergraduate work in general office management. 4 Managed mail list and mailings, Office ,NJtomation years FS. assisted in document preparation. Ashland RD The following personnel from the K!amath National Forest provided input and review during thc planning and compiling of this Draft EIS. These individuals generally worked d'trectly with their respective counterparts on the Rogue River and Sisldyou National Forests. CON~IBUTOR EDUCA'I]ON & EXPERIENCE CON~II~IBUTION Sam Cuenna BS Wildlife Management. 17 years as District Wildlife Provided wildlife inpul to ESA and Wildlife Biologist, Biologist on three National Forests. NEPA process. Scott River RD Candy Cooke-Slette BA Anthropology, 6 years as District and Foresl Heritage review Suparvisor's Or, ce Archaeologist. Juan de la Fuente BS Geology. 32 years of experience with the Forest Reviewed geological and hydrological Forest Geologist Service; expertise in assessing forest management information and analyses. Supervisor's Oflce effects on geomorphic processes. ' Don Elder BA in mathematics, MS in geology, 10 years Contributed data and methodology for Geologist, Supervisors experience in geok~jy with the FS. cumutative watershed effects model. Jan Ford BS W~ldlife Management, 23 years resource NEPA process review, consultation Staff Officer, Supervisor's management experience on three National Forests. and input and coordination of Kiemath Of~, Planning, Recma~on, NF spedalist review. and Archaeology Ray Haupt AS Biological Science, BS Natural Resource Draft ElS review and coordination of District Ranger, Scott Management, graduate work Forest Engineering. 26 Kiamath NF involvement. River RD years FS, 5 years as District Ranger. Lynda Kams BA English, BS Forestry. 30 years resource Review, analysis and documentation Forest NEPA Planner management and 14 years in envirOnmental of Forest Plan amendments. Supewisor's Office coordination and forest planning with the FS. JimKilgore BAZoolagy. 10yearsasfishandaquaticbiologistwith Previde maps and aquatic information Fish and Aquatic Biologist, emphasis on determining effects from proposed relative to Cottonwood and Grouse Scott River RD I projects on aquatic species. Creeks. Draft ElS (July 2003) VI - 3 Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion CONTRIBUTOR EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CONTRIBUTION Jen'y Mosier BS Landscape Architecture. 26 years FS experience in Assisted project Landscape Architect Landscape Amhiteci wildlandmanagement, planning, & design, emphasis in in integrating scenic quality and Supervisor's Office scenery conservation of recreation settings, recreation setting considerations. Jay Power BS Geology, BA Environmental Studies. 28 yearn Geology and waiershed review of Geologist experience as geologist, 19 years FS, parking lot design and construction. Scott River RD ~d Rose BS Geology, MS Geology, MS Geotechnical Parking lot design review and analysis. Northern California Pmwnce Engineering. 24 years FS. 24 years experience with C-eotechnical Engineer, the FS in geotechnical engineering. Supervisor's Office .... C, MT. ASHLAND ASSOCIATION AND CONSULTANTS The following non-Forest Service personnel provided input, proposals and coordinated consulting surveys and design for the Proposed Action for Mt. Ashland ski area expansion. CONTRIBUTOR I EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE I CONTRIBUTION Mt. Ashland Association Jeff Hanson BS Biology and Psychology. MS Outdear Educatiea. Responsible for coordinal~ng, General Manager, 23 years ski area operation and 3 years envimnmenlal developing and planning all aspects of Ashland, OR education camp director, the MAA proposal. Contributed project descriptions for MAA proposal Gene Landsmane BS Geography. Completed course work for MS in Provided uss figures and assisted in Marketing Director, geography. Trained in land use planning. 38 yearn in ski run layout and design Ashland, OR ski industry, considerations. Bruce Meek B.S. Social Science, National Avalanche School, Contributed to avalanche section, - Outdoor OperaUons Amedcan Avalanche Institute Studies, Intemational particularly runoul distances specific to Supervisor, Ashland, OR Snow Science Workshops (5). Founding member Mt. Ashland and provided information American Association of Avalanche Pmfeesionaie. mietive to skier injury and evacuation. SE GROUP Chris Cushing BS Civil Engineering. 18 yearn experience in mead Contributed to ski mn/lift design and Principal, Mountain and meuntein pieoning, layout, and analysis of mountain Planning Practice Leader. capadty. Park City, Utah Bill Granger BA Blalogy. Master of Environmental Management. 15 Contributed to wetland and stream Senior Environmental years in environmental consulting NEPA process delineations, mstoratieo, alternative Mgr., Environmental administration, ski area analysis, and weUeods and project descriptions, ACS, and Practice Co-leader, delineation and permitting ~rovided NEPA process review, Balievue, WA consulteUon and input. Ford Hubbard BA Physical Education. 30 plus yearn experience in ski Contributed to ski run/tiff design and Construction Management run planning and construction, layout. Spedaliet, Littleton, NH. ._Currenl~y re~red. Claire Humber, ASLA Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA.) 12 years Developed capedty analysis for runs, Senior Associate, of experiense in resod and mountain planning, lifts, and base area. Burlington, Vermont John Ruple BA Demography and Environmental Policy. MS Contributed to air quality analysis and Environmental Assodata, Envimnmeolal Planning and Policy. 4 years experience documentation. Pedormed air quality i Fdsco, CO. in environmental consulting and NEPA process. No modeling. _ longer with SE GROUP. Draft ElS (July 2003) VI - 4 Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion CONTRIBUTOR EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CONTRIBUTION Kent Shaq) BA Economics. 14 years experience in NEPA process Conthbuted to altarr~tive and projecl Senior Environmental Mgr., administration, ski arco analysis, and ski ama permit deschptions, and provided NEPA Environmental Practice Co- administration, process review, consultation and input. leader, Fdsco, CO Trevis Spikes BS Environmentel Science. 5 years experience as Contribuled 1o delineation of wetlands Ecologist, Bellevue, WA environmental consultant in wetland biology, hydrology and streams in SUP area, restoration and geomorphology, and NEPA process, concepts, and ACS analysis. _ Cogan Owens Co,an Matt Hastie BS Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, MS Lead responsibility for research, Principal, Podland, OR Regional Planning. 10 years experience land use, writing, and analysis of sodoeconomic transpodation, planning, policy analysis and public and skiing demand coofJcos. involvement proiects. Daniel J. Heffeman BS Geography, MBA/MPA, Willamette University. 25 Conducted tlnandal feasibility; Senior Associate, years experience in land use planning, community and assisted in reviewing recreational Podlaed, OR. Currently economic development, public finance and urban skiing demand sections. with Angelo Eaton and service delivery. Associates. Jim Owens BA Political Science. 27 years experience in Oversaw analysis and documentation Pdndpal, Portland, OR environmental and land use planning, project of sodoeconomic, siding demand, and management, and public involvement. Specialist in feasibility analysis sections. NEPA process and ElS planning for ski areas. Damian Pitt BA Sociology, MS Community and Regional Planning. Assisted with recoamh and writing of Associate Planner, Twa years land use and environmental planning, socioeconomic and siding demand Portland, OR sections. Other Consultants Mahmood Azad BS Fisheries Biology, MS Civil Engineering (Water and Technical analysis and conceptual Senior Engineer, Parsons Wastewater). 20 years experience in wastewater design of proposed wastewater Engineedng Sciences, design and restoration. Registered Pmfessionel disposal system for the Skier Services Reno NV En~]inoer~ OR and NV. Building. Tim Bossard BS Civil Engineering. 29 years experience in civil Analyzed potential parking areas and Owner, T.J. Bossard, Inc., engineering, 26 years in southwesl Oregon. provided preliminary design and Grants Pass, OR Registered Professional Engincor~ OR. cons~ction cost estimates. Kevin Coulton BS Landscape Architecture, BS Civil Engincodng, MS Conducted peak tlow and stage Senior Associate, Phillip Civil Eogincodng with emp~sis in hydraulic discharge analysis resulting in Williems and Associates, ' engincodag. 16 years expedence in dviLangincodng preliminary design factors for Ltd., Portland, OR with 8 years specialized in water resource engineering, proposed bddge. Aisc contributed Registered Professional Engineer, OR. forest snowpack discussion. Scott English BS Community Service and Public Affairs, graduate Led an interdisciplinary team of pdvate Principal, Northwest wark in biogeography. Founded NBC in 1978. consultants in delineating wetlands, Biological Consulting, Extensive experience in weOand delincotion, planning analyzing ski run Iocatian alternatives Ashland, OR and design of wetlands and watershed restoration and within wetlands and dpadan areas, enhancement projects, and designing bddge sl~?Jfications. Shawn Karepreann Licensed Land Surveyor, OR and AK. 20 years Surveyed and mapped lower wegands Owner, Polads Surveying, experience in land survey and mapping, arco, proposed LC-6 terminals, Ashland, OR Skiway, and Moraine Lodge. Calculated cot and fill soil displacement at various locations. Bill Malcolm MS Business Administration. 28 years experience in Contributed to secicecnoomic, skiing Senior Principal, Bamhar[ winter resod planning and development, demand, and feasibility analysis Malcolm, Inc. Lyme, NH sections. Mark Reitenger Undergraduate and graduate work in ad and Designed and provided preliminary Pdndpal, Reitenger and architecture. 15 years building designer and 8 years ski architectural drawing for Skier Associates, Ashland, OR industry. Services Building. Draft ElS (July 2003) VI - 5 Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion AnnSelzer I am a22-year resident of Ashland and a skier - mcsfly back-cot~try but I HAVEoccaqonally skied on the Mt Ashland Ski Area. This is to regisler a previously tmvciced, but strong oppcdtion, to any prqx~ cf Mt. Ashland ~Jq~ansion that would include exg~axYmg into the Mkldle Branch of East Fork Ashlard Creek Clhers ~ll have submittedextemive data ~ega~ding the followingwhich I will net ret~k I want to emphasize my aoqeement with: WATI~,QUAIJI¥/QUANllTY - Thefiskistcogreat!!! DON'TTAMPER WITHCITYWATERSUtI~Y. Soil erosioa follows soil disruption. 1 believe tl~ IS a major comm~ What if"Pnxticted ~" of under 3 cubic yal~ye~-reaching Reeder is wnmg - on the radically low side .°4.! A"Quality Con~ Team" (9-25Tidings) rnayfinditsdfmonitodng resultsthat areout ofcontrol..Xoolate! HNANCIAL RISK- I remember veay well yeas when fl~e ski anm did poaty ,and was ofiginally"saveW by Ihe dry andits dlizms, A ski ~xeais at the mea'cy of the wealher- it needs snow. Thelaeferred altemafivesinthe Middle Fotkareadq:end m ~ going into lower elevalio~ In the ling-nm (sho~er4han-we-think?) glol~ warming seems like a vay likely reality. I have grave concerns atx~naking m major finandal indeAledness to fundthe expansiom pmpcsed lay Mt. Axhland. The datacollected andta~sentedintheTidingsas a SienaClubpublic advcatisement a4tqtolhese cencems, Un!ess fl~e dry investigates this and finds depai~~data hhat pn~ a much mc~e sctid finandal I~a.4s thanlhat which was fcund by Siena Club inveaigatom then I say we wculd be very mtr& the gamblers (fools?) for the tax-t~aying citizens ffAshland to take tiffs ch. HRE- Atlhis pclnt lhisis not as strong a eomcm~ for me, t:~.old growthis the most rite-assistant vegetation and removing this ~ddinctease the p~l~ oflighming ~es se~ing cffa f~ lh~ would v/~n~d. Respectthe federal IVld2lcr~d Pt~ RmrflessAre,: Ashland l~idesitsdfon being'T~ee City, USA," shodd NOT ~e supp~xe of deslmyingtn~es ~dlmildingintoafcxteml Rca~essAnmon"otff' mot~taiiz I support adding Shuttle Service and ncr l~king lot expardon atthe top- forthe lives of o~ dtizens, ~ ~ ~~ do net add "e:q:~on" traffac to this ve~ay dangemm mad. Up to 21 '¥a:~e jebs" (Aug. 30Tidings: 13 full4ime atthe mountain and 6.9 full4ime in town) does not smatojuslify the risktaken m, eitherfinamially or rathe waer supply. MAIN PO1NY SUMMARY: No expansim into the Middle Fork! NOT expandingin this way could wetl save Mount Ashland as a ski area operation aswellas vciding such intentional rifle to abe dty's water. Headwaters To conserve, protect, and restore forest ecosystems, clean water and biological diversity in the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion P 0 Box 729 Ashland, OR 97520 482-4459 (ph) 482-7282 (fax) Contact: Tonya Graham, Executive Director Introduction Thank you so much for holding a special forum to gather public input about the Mt. Ashland expansion proposal. As you know, Headwaters has been working with a group of ski area users since May of 2002 to create a Community Alternative Mt. Ashland Improvement Proposal that improves the recreational experience at the Mt. Ashland Ski Area while protecting our watershed. As you are aware, the current proposal put forward by the Mt. Ashland Association has been surrounded by intense controversy in our community for many years. Now that the new Draft Environmental Impact Statement is completed, our community is once again faced with an expansion proposal that has the potential to cause serious and irreparable damage to our watershed. The Council's Role Some have argued that the City Council's relationship to the Mt. Ashland Ski Area is the same as its relationship to the Ashland Community Hospital or the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and that the operation of the facility is the business of the Mt. Ashland Association. Nothing could be further from the truth. The hospital and the theater are not located at the headwaters of our watershed. If the organizations in charge of those enterprises do a poor j ob, the City of Ashland's water supply will not be damaged. The same cannot be said for the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. Even if the City of Ashland did not hold the permit for the ski area, the Council would be responsible for commenting to the Forest Service about this proposal simply because of the potential damage to our water supply. As citizens of Ashland, we are very fortunate that our City Council is in such a strong position to protect our drinking water and our community. Over the next few weeks, the Council will have to come to a decision about what comments to make to the Forest Service with regard to this project. While recreational values are important, we must remember that our water supply and the safety of our citizens are the most important values on the mountain. Other city councils around the country have had to weigh the potential benefits of development against the potential damage to their municipal watersheds. Many cities have come to understand the importance of a functional watershed and have chosen to simply prohibit all recreation in their watershed. We are not advocating that the Ashland City Council take this stand, but we are advocating that the Council take active steps to protect our water supply. What Is At Risk? Our water supply is at risk, but because of a lack of monitoring data, we do not have the information needed to properly assess that risk. Mt. Ashland is a dynamic system that changes over time and the monitoring required to give us the information we need to make an informed decision has not been done by the Forest Service, Mt. Ashland Association, or the City of Ashland. We do know, however, that the soils on Mt. Ashland are decomposed granitics and they are very prone to erosion when disturbed. This soil type combined with the steep slopes creates the most erosive conditions for soils anywhere. The construction of the current ski area has created erosion problems that we will likely never be able to solve. Rather than creating more problems that future generations may not be able to solve, we are obligated as a community to gather the information needed before making a decision about development in the Middle Branch Area. Some people wonder why erosion is such a problem. Most of the productivity of the soil (75 - 90%) is found in the topsoil. Mt. Ashland generally has a very thin layer of topsoil that forms a mat on top of sterile decomposed granite. That mat absorbs water much in the same way that a sponge does, allowing rain and snow melt to be released slowly off of the mountain. Unfortunately, when that topsoil layer is disturbed, two separate problems are created. First, because the highly erosive soil below the top soil mat is now exposed, the process of erosion starts to move sediment downhill. This soil ends up staged in the gullies and stream beds until the next major summer thunderstorm or a rain on snow event like the one that caused the 1997 flood. When these extreme weather events happen a large volume of water is deposited onto the mountain in a very short period of time. The disturbed areas are essentially useless at slowing it down because the top soil mat has been removed, so instead of having the mat absorb a large amount of the water and release it slowly, the water immediately cuts down through the stream channels. The sediment that has been deposited in those channels over the past 10-20 years is very lightweight and it moves easily in water. The end result is water comes off the mountain faster than it has to because of the disturbed soils and then picks up the sediment that is now in the stream channels due to ongoing erosion from the disturbed soils. This water continues to move downstream until is reaches downtown Ashland with high sediment loads. In the process, Reeder Reservoir fills up with sediment and the City of Ashland has to pay to have the reservoir dredged. It is important to note that we are not saying that the operation of the current Mt. Ashland Ski Area caused the 1997 flood. What we are saying is that disturbing those particular soils on that mountain have the effect of decreasing the ecosystem's ability to absorb extreme precipitation events. The Middle Fork already has far more water in it than does the area that houses the existing ski area facilities, lfthe Middle Fork is developed we may see more frequent floods with larger volumes of material coming from our watershed into our town. Sediment Delivery to Our Watershed A number of flaws exist in the analysis used to estimate the amount of sediment that will be delivered to Ashland's municipal water supply. Models are only as good as the data that is used to run them. The Forest Service's analysis relied on computer simulations whose results can vary by 2-3 orders of magnitude depending on the assumptions used as inputs to the model. Input variables that have such a huge impact on the results include assumptions used for effectiveness of mitigatiop measures, soil variability, site-specific differences, weather, etc. There is a noticeable lack of on-site data collection to validate the assumptions used for the input parameters and to validate the model's results. Also, the documentation for the model states that it is not intended to be used to analyze watersheds with gullies and stream channels, severely disturbed sites (roads and trails), or sloughing of gully sidewalls. Because methodologies that would stand up to scientific peer review standards were not used, all projections for sediment delivery should be considered invalid. The burden of proof has not been met so the city should not allow any actions in the watershed that might impact water quality and quantity. Existing Restoration and Monitoring Efforts Currently, there are no comprehensive restoration efforts happening at the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. The Mt. Ashland Association routinely has school children plant grass plugs on the ski runs, but as grass is not an effective erosion control method for this particular situation, this effort has very little effect. The Mt. Ashland Association also does not monitor the effectiveness of their limited efforts to determine whether those efforts are having a positive impact. They have also fallen behind on the maintenance of erosion control measures, such as outsloped roads. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement includes restoration projects, many of which are needed as a result of the ongoing operation of the ski area. It is not necessary to have those projects analyzed in a DEIS and in fact, the Mt. Ashland Association could have gotten started on those projects years ago because it is their responsibility to mitigate the effects of their operation on our watershed. Instead, they have invested their time and resources into public relations campaigns to convince our community that their expansion proposal will benefit Ashland and the larger Rogue Valley. The current proposal includes restoration projects and mitigation measures along with monitoring efforts. Unfortunately, the budget presented by the Mt. Ashland Association does not include a line item for restoration projects, mitigation measures, or monitoring. While they claim that they are going to use rock rip rap to cross the stream channel in the Middle Fork area, there is no indication that they have properly estimated the cost of transporting the rock via helicopter as they cannot get the rock from the site and the skiway road will not be engineered to handle large trucks. Restoring the Land If the ski area fails, the task of restoring the area may fall ultimately to the City of Ashland as the permit holder. Even if the city did not hold the permit, however, the problems created by this disturbance would still create significant costs for the city as our community is dependent on the clean water provided by the watershed. When the ski area was considering closing in the early 1990s, the Forest Service did an Environmental Assessment to determine what measures were necessary for the permit holder to restore the land. That estimate is what the Mt. Ashland Association has been basing their restoration projections on. However, we have learned quite a lot in the last 10 years and if the ski area goes under, there will be significant pressure from the community to ensure adequate restoration takes place. There is no way at this point to determine how much that will cost. Some have suggested transferring the permit to the Mt. Ashland Association to reduce financial risk to the City of Ashland. However, the city has a responsibility that has nothing at all to do with the legal relationship between the city and the Mt. Ashland Association. The Mt. Ashland Ski Area is built at the headwaters of our municipal watershed and protecting our water supply must be the first priority for the council. Residents of this community raised the money to purchase this area for our community. The Mt. Ashland Association has shown that it is not terribly interested in the thoughts of a majority of our community and in fact, has organized itself in such a way that accountability to the community does not exist. The only way the association is accountable to the community is through the relationship they have with the City of Ashland. It is imperative that the City Council protect that relationship so that our community may continue to have a say in the operations of our community ski area. What Are Our Options? Fortunately, the Draft Environmental Impact Statement contains a range of possibilities, some of which are less risky financially and ecologically according to the analysis in the DEIS. The question is not, "Do we develop the Middle Branch area or do we do nothing?" The question is, "How can we improve the recreational experience of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area while protecting our municipal watershed?" The Forest Service's Alternative 3 is based on the recommendations of Headwaters and ski area users. Essentially, this alternative aims to reduce environmental impacts by restricting development to the far eastern side of the Middle Branch area. We are recommending that the Forest Service analyze Alternative 3 with the following modifications: Move the base of the LC6 lift so that it is not in the Middle Branch area and is out of the McDonald Peak Roadless Area. Remove the main parking lot expansion from the proposal. The need for additional parking on selected weekends and holidays can be handled adequately with an access road shuttle. Add the R-21 (North Ridge Novice Run) from Alternative 5 to this alternative to provide significant new beginner terrain near the base lodge where beginner skiers will be more likely to use it. Rearrange phasing so that the watershed restoration projects, novice terrain near Poma area and the Skier services buildings are done first. Additional projects should be completed after the ski area has created the necessary infrastructure to handle additional skiers. Issue two separate decisions - one for the non-controversial elements, such as the skier services buildings and the Poma area beginner terrain. A second decision should be issued for the more controversial aspects of the proposal. (By doing this, the Forest Service will reduce the potential of the non-controversial work being held up by the more controversial elements of the proposal.) The restoration projects included in this proposal do not require this level of environmental analysis and should be started immediately. We hope you will consider this information and make your decision in support of protecting our watershed for future Ashlanders. We have inherited many problems in our society that were created by reckless decisions of our predecessors. It is our responsibility to ensure that we are not saddling our children and grandchildren with problems in their watershed that cannot be solved. The Ashland City Council has the right and responsibility to protect our municipal watershed. The City Council should request that expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area be confined to the area outside of the Middle Branch Area. Long-term monitoring is required before our community can consider allowing development in the Middle Branch Area. I! Sean Gordon 100 Union St. October 1, 2003 Members of the Ashland City Council, It is clear that expansion into the middle fork region at this time is environmentally, socially, and financially irresponsible, and would not appropriately address the most pertinent overflow and terrain problems the current facility has in servicing our community. These problems have viable, cost effective, and appropriately scaled solutions that we have not considered with enough attention. The most proficient young skiers are free to ski at Shasta in order to satisfy their needs for extended terrain, and have no real need for this to be made available at Mt. Ashland simply for their convenience at the expense of the security and enlightened interest of the greater community. As city council please inform the forest service that expansion into the middle fork is absolutely unacceptable and inappropriate at this time, that new beginner terrain near the lodge, improvements to the lodge, and upgrading Ariel to a four chair are desirable and appropriate courses of action in response to our needs, and that expanding the parking lot is not appropriate at this time. Thank you Good aRernoon. I am here because I see a need for an alternative that has not been openly discussed. Let me begin by saying that I am neither pro- or anti- expansion, but that I am pro-community use. In essence, Mt Ashland is a community owned ski area, but is it operated for the community? In the Membership news that Mt. Ashland has published on it's websita, under the headline "It's Now or Never", it states;"...back in 1984, ski area managers recognized the impending need for greater terrain balance and enhanced guest service facilities...". I have been skiing at Mt. Ashland for only three seasons, but have certainly recognized that need for greater attention to guest service facilities. I would have thought that twenty years would see some significant progress in the little things that would inspire confidence that the larger items would be handled with the same care and responsibility. Having not been here that duration I thought that I would share some observations and a plan that may find a niche in the juxtaposed camps that currently exist. A.) In terms of the area into which the expansion is proposed: In Tahoe, at a resort called Sierra-at-Tahoe, John Rice and Casey Blahn negotiated and compromised with the Forest Service to come up with a plan whereby Gates were installed at the top of the expansion area. When conditions are good, the gates am open and guests are welcome to ski that area. When conditions are not favorable, the gates are closed. Limited and selective pruning could easily be agreed upon as un alternative to football fields worth of cut, and the soon-to-be- famous Mt. Ashland glades are born. To transport skiers out of the area, A LMC 3700 snowcat, which Mt. Ashland already owns could be cut down by reducing the width of the tracks and blade by approximately a third, and a cat track could then be easily cut across the bottom of the expansion area as the snow cat would need much less width within which to travel. This solution is already in use at other resorts and is a proven method with positive results. No new lifts, no new cleareut rans, but a bigger, better mountain for the marketing department to work with. B.)BUT, how would this address the problem of not enough beginner to intermediate terrain? It would not directly affect that problem but would affect it indirectly vepj significantly. By givin~ upper-intermediates and experts an area to call their own other than the nebulous "south side", you would remove a terrifying element from the beginner/intermediate's skiing experience. Much more terrifying than any terrain to those new snow enthusiasts is the advanced skier/boarder who whips by at what are reasonable speeds to them but seem terrifying to the new guesL Anyone who has spoken to a first-time snows porter has heard them bemoaning the proximity of others while they work their way down the hill. C.)In addition, by granting the area beyond the lodge and using that area for race training as is proposed, you would also return a sj~tmiflcant amount of terrain to the intermediate. Currently, runs such as Dream, Winter, Romeo, and Juliet are used for race training and then left carelessly in horrible condition. Those are your intermediate and beginner runs, and what could be more intimidating to a beginner than to have too them inexplicable foet-dcep ruts in the mas they see on the map as suitable for them. Even an advanced skier is easily tossed by these ruts as they are frequently unmarked and little effort is mede to sideslip them or fill them back in. By granting the race department and MARA a desperately needed space, you will actually increase your skiable intermediate runs, and give the race teams a more effective training space. This would also take the pressure of the race teams off the lift lines, opening them up for other guests. It is possible that a new surface lift would be necessary on the new race area, but that is a no-impact item which is a small trade-off for the benefits it would afford the rest of the mountain end the race programs simultaneously. D.)The tubing area should be an area of no contention. This facility is the most community-minded and revenue-gunemting concept in any of the plans. Although it takes an extraordinary amount of snow to create the necessary lanes to operate a tubing facility, there is oegligible and easily mitigated environmental impact. It does not take any skill to ride a tube down a tubing lane, but not much is as fun. This facility would open thc mountain to people who would otherwise have no interest in visiting. Even if these people never become avid snowsport enthusiasts, they will return with their families again and again and introduce their kids to the world of snowsports. Those kids could easily be Mt. Ashland's next generation of visitors. E.)Anyone who visited the mountain durin~ the Holiday we~k Christmas through New Year's 2003 should be willing to admit there is a need for additional parking. Walking half to three-quarters of a mile from your vehicle to the resort, and waiting in line for a half-hour or more just to turn around to do so is silly and unjustified. In addition there is a desperate need for better parking lot oversight, such as the presence of a parking attendant down on the road during that week informing guests of the situation and parking them along the road. Another huge issue is the on-site sale nf sno-park permits. It is possible for a person to have to walk from the back of the back parking lot to the lodge to buy a sno-park permit, only to return to a ticket on their vehicle for not having one. Then begins the hassle of Uying to explain that to the ticketing agency. Would it really be so difficult to put a guardhouse on skids and drag it out there, especially on busy days, to alleviate those guest service nightmares? Was this not part of 1984's vision of enlumced guest service by ski area managers? Please grant them additional parking alternatives. Don't you think it would be easier to just provide a shuttle? In closing, I suggest that there are many ways in which Mt. Ashland could improve without the addition of new lifts, new runs, or new lodges. I believe that those improvements would be moot without the necessary common-sense improvements in current infrastructure. There are myriad improvements possible without the consOuction of any new facilities. Some are possible with the construction of minimal or no new facilities, only services, such as the addition of a groomed Nordic trail to Grouse Gap Shelter, which would greatly benefit not only the Mt. Ashland Resor~ but the community to which it is beholden. I believe it is time for Mt. Ashland to lruly behave as a community resort. Thank you, Chris Garvey In terms of qualifications to make such a proposal: **Speaker and conference comm~tec member California Ski Industries Association **Operations consultant Swatch Boardercross tour **Operations consultant Vans Triple Crown of Snowboarding **Speaker-Transworld Snowboarding Industry Conferences **Department heed-Booth Creek Holdings **Internationally certified Judge-International Sunwboard Federation **Certified Judge-United States of America Snowboard Association (USASA-two-time judge for Nationals-) **Race/Freestyle Coach Heavenly Ski Foundation **Board of Directors-Sierra Educational Foundation **Six year supervisor- Snowbeard Instruction September 19, 2003 To: Ashland City Councilors Re: Mt. Ashland Ski Area Expansion Proposals From: JoAnne Eggers I ask you to oppose any expansion of the Mount Ashland Ski Area into the Middle Branch of the East Fork of Ashland Creek. Too many natural and community values are at risk. Our city in the Valdez Principles says it will preserve and protect the environment. These community values certainly come into play in the decision re: how to improve the ski area. I expect you will represent the whole community in this matter, and not just the subset of downhill skiers and snowboarders and some commercial interests who advocate expansion into this precious area. I have been on field trips through this area at least three times since the summer of 2000, guided by Forest Service, Ski Area, and environmental and resource experts. Some of my specific concerns relate to · The loss of opportunities for people to experience the pristine quality of this rich and fragile area. Ski lifts and ski runs would permanently clearcut 60 to 120 foot wide swaths of trees down the mountainside and impact wetlands and streams. · The value of the MacDonald Peak Roadless Area and the Siskiyou Crest as habitat and connectivity for wildlife and plants. I do not want to be a part of a community that has no regard for other than human life for its own sake, not only for what we can get out of it. · The threat to the integrity of the Englemann Spruce grove by development and management activities that would damage the trees or change the way water flows to and within it. · Changes, including the cutting of trees and loss of soil cover, that would accelerate the flow of water. Even though the granitic soils on the ski slopes may move only a few meters in a given season or two, the accelerated water flows move huge amounts of granitic materials "parked" in the drainages between there and Reeder Reservoir. Some say our children need this ski area expansion into the Middle Branch of the East Fork in order to have healthy wintertime activities. I know in my heart that what they need even more is for us adults, particularly the decision-makers, to be models of honesty, vision, and responsible behavior. Let's help the children find a variety of exciting and healthy activities and guide them toward an appreciation of what the earth has to offer. Our example is critical to their well being and to sustaining life on this planet. Mt. Ashland Expansion DEIS Comments to Ashland City Council Paul Copeland October 1, 2003 I recommend that the City of Ashland take the following steps with respect to the Mt. Ashland Ski Area expansion plan: 1. Comprehensive Watershed Monitorin.q The City should use the momentum from the DEIS review process to start a comprehensive watershed monitoring program. Lakeview supports such a program for its watershed at a cost of around $120,000 per year to scientifically monitor plant and soil measurements at multiple locations. This is on a larger acreage than the size of the Ashland watershed. The City should also look into what other municipalities are doing in this regard. Paula Brown's monitoring proposal is the right idea, but it needs to go further than measuring sediment at one point in the stream and should be designed and managed scientifically. The City needs to budget for an ongoing program because not all of the watershed is the responsibility of the ski area, because the ski area does not have sufficient financial resources, and because the Forest Service budget is vulnerable to annual appropriation swings. 2. Permanent Middle Branch Set-Aside The values of City residents must be respected and the watershed, the Engelmann Spruce groves, and the sensitive wetlands must be protected. Please insist on a zero development permanent set aside of the Middle Fork of the East Fork of Ashland Creek (i.e., the expansion area in Alternatives 2 and 6). The City has this kind of leverage under the 1929 watershed agreement with the Forest Service. Ashland should enter into an agreement with the ski area and the Forest Service stipulating this mClUirement before the City approves any expansion plan. 3. MAA Board Reorganization Mount Ashland Association (MAA) has doggedly pursed an expansion into the Middle Branch area for many years in spite of determined opposition from the community and all of the local environmental groups. Even after several revisions and two rounds of DEIS documents, the central problems with this plan remain virtually unchanged. The MAA refusal to engage in dialog and look at viable alternatives ensures that environmental lawsuits will delay implementation of improvements for years, if ever. Meanwhile ski area finances are deteriorating and the concems of skiers and the community are being ignored. Skiers are unhappy with parking conditions and deficiencies with the lodge. Snowboarders are going to Shasta in increasing numbers because the terrain park at Mt. Ashland is not competitive. Environmentalists are critical of inadequate mitigation measures. These are things that could have and should have been fixed already. A perfect storm financial crisis is brewing. A stdng of bad snow years such as last occurred in the 1989 to 1991 pedod is certain to come again and is certain to wipe out the working capital operating reserves of the ski area which are marginal even in normal snowfall years. When this happens, fund raising will be required just to keep the ski area open. A multi-million dollar expansion in the midst of a financial collapse will look like very poor judgment. This impending cdsis at Mt. Ashland needs to be dealt with starting at the top. The MAA board is failing its responsibility to skiers and snowboarders and the broader community. They are alienating the very base of support that enabled the purchase of the ski area in the first place. That base of support will be needed again to keep the ski area open in lean times, The current MAA board lacks diversity, accountability, accessibility, leadership, openness, and transparency. The MAA board is not elected by the membership or appointed by the City or accountable to anyone but themselves. The board is self appointed and they select their own successors. MAA was given a multi- million dollar ski area on a 25 year lease for one dollar a year. We gave them the keys and we can't get them back. The City of Ashland should go on record recommending that the Mt. Ashland Association take steps to ensure community input and community support. MAA must revise its bylaws to require election of the board by an inclusive membership, including appointment of some board members by the City of Ashland. These changes are a necessary first step to unite the community behind improvements needed for the economic viability of the ski area within a context of respect for environmental values demanded by the community. The City cannot force the Mt. Ashland board to take these steps, but we should start asking now in advance of the time when circumstances will force a change. PO Box 3217 Ashland, OR 97520 September 20, 2003 Paula Brown, Public Works Director, City of Ashland Ashland City Council Ashland, OR Dear Ladies and Gentlemen: In 2000, I attended many meetings where the expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Resort was discussed. Thus far, the new 2003 expansion information has not changed my mind: I remain convinced that any expansion is wrong. I openly acknowledge the fine experiences of skiing on Mt. Ashland. Some Individuals have expressed to me their reasons for returning to the resort: Namely, the proximity to Ashland, and the small scale of the mountain. On-the-other-hand, in a recent letter to the editor in the Daily Tidings, itwas statrA, "if Mt. Ashland does not expand - it will have to shut down." Is it logical for this business to expand when the demand for its product is decreasing? Has the MAA proved that its existing difficulties are solely the result of size? Furthermore, reports showed that the MAP, annual net operating income has steadily declined. I am grateful that my drinking water originates from a higher altitude in the forest. The 2000 Oregon State of the Environment Report ~at_ed that poor or very poor water is more likely to be found in "non-forested lands where intensive land uses and land conversion have occurred." The gravitational forces on the mountain move the water through a matrix of earthen and plant materials. Some engineering studies have cited case situations where construction and the Unsc~llng of the land caused the nearby underground and surface water patterns to change. In my opinion, the July 2003 DEIS has not shown proof that the changes to the environment will not permanently disturb the water flow and discharge in the Watershed. The July 2003 Draft Environmental Impact Statement - Mt. Ashland Ski Expansion expressed low to potential risk for indirect and cumulative effects on sedimentation and soil compaction. I am not comfortable with the conclusions. During the meetings and the testimonies on the 2000 DEFS, there were scientist who strongly objected to the expansion because of the short-long t~xm negative erosion and sedimentation in the Watershed. Also, there were scientists who minimized the potential for harm. Since, Science is not absolutemI am not willing to compromise our welfare and safety in Ashiand by putting recreation first. The facts are that Ashland has experienced two major floods and on the average, a 10 year frequency. The 1974 flood caused the city to be without water for 10 days. We, the citizens of Ashland, are currently paying taxes on the 1997 Flood Bonds. It takes approximately 10 to 12 years to repay the debt. The 1974 flood was paid off in eleven years. In 2000, the Forest Service accepted public comments on the Ski Expansion that offered concern with factual basis. The comments required only a signature; no age or residence information was required; and group signatures were accepted into the conunent tally. The taxpayers of Ashland have a moral, a social, and an economic interest in the Ashland Watershed. Why not let the Ashland comments "hold more weight" or have a stronger voice in the decision process? I can identify several flood victims who paid $10,000 plus dollars (out-of-pocket) because of the 1997 flood damages. The more ominous thc consequences, the more caution. Our community has many financial troubles: To name a few, The Food Bank, School textbooks - programs, AFN, andmore. In addition, the Forest Service continues to cut back which could affect the future monitoring and surveys in the Ashland Watershed. Please say NO to ALL Expansion in the Watershed. Choose a policy that is closest to a way nature does things. Our mistakes always nm downhill. Sincerely, Elizabeth Cross c.c: Rogue River National Forest -Comment for DEIS - Mt. Ashland Area Expansion TO: FROM: DATE: Ashland City Council Elizabeth Cross 760 Clay Street Ashland, OR 97520 September 30, 2003 Ashland's Watershed exists within a larger environmental system. If it is damaged or lost, Ashland will be damaged or lost. What if the proposed expan.qion/s into the Watershed alters the environment more rapidly than its natural adaptability can accommodate? Contemplate the COST of another catastrophic flood or landslide that descends on our community. Are you 100% sure that the environmental risks are AFFORDABLE? As our Ashland elected officials, you have the authority to speak for the people. Please, represent the opinions of Ashland's majority. Dear Council Members, I am an Ashland citizen who is an avid skier, season pass holder, and someone who chose to move to Ashland largely due to the proximity of a commanity ski area. However, I have serious eoncerns about the ski area expansion and it's potential adverse effects upon our community. I have looked closely at the methodology used to predict the impact of the expansion on the delivery of sedimentation into our water supply and am deeply concerned about the reliability of the results. The projections were based on computer modeling which is an area that I have a strong background in. I worked for Intel Corp. in a research and development lab where we made extensive use of various modeling techniques. Based on my experience I have strong reservations about the reliability of the analysis presented in the DEIS. Request: I urge you to take the following actions: 1. Pass a resolution requesting that no expansion occur in the middle fork. This is in order to safeguard our financial assets and the integrity of our water supply. 2. Pass a resolution stating that we do not want the expansion to occur in the middle fork on the basis of values per the Valdez Principals. 3. Pass a resolution requesting that the MAA implement the erosion mitigation measures outlined in the DEIS for the proposed expansion on the existing ski area before any expansion occurs. 4. Pass a resolution requiring that collateral for restoration costs be in real dollars and not depreciating assets Council's Job One: These requests are based on the following (see sections below for more details): 1. City Council's job-one is to not take risks with city assets: · Water quality- the DEIS underestimates erosion and sedimentation. · Water quantity- the middle fork supplies 2-3x the water of the east fork · City infrastructure and private property - Sedimentation processes load channels for flood events. The mitigation and restoration measures proposed appear to be inadequate. · Ensure responsibility as the Special Use Permit holder: Restoration plans must be thorough and estimated restoration costs must be realistic. · Precedence has been set by other communities - such as Seattle, WA; Vancouver, B.C.; Santa FE, NM, and Boulder, CO- that have decided to close their watersheds to all recreational use. Demanding that the expansion stay out of the middle fork is certainly a reasonable request in comparison to these examples. · Recreation does not show up on the same radar semen as protecting vital city assets. 2. Council's job is to reflect the values of the citizens it represents. You passed a proposal pledging to adhere to the Valdez Principals on the behalf of tbe citizens of Ashland, now it is time for us to follow through. Is Council Action Warranted?? In order to assess if there is sufficient doubt in the DEIS results to warrant action by Council one should consider thc following: 1. Sediment Delivery / Integrity of the Dat~: The projections on the amount of sediment that might be delivered into our channels do not appear to be reliable for thc following reasons: a. The analysis did not involve the levels of scientifically accepted monitoring and on-site data collection that is required. b. The computer model used for the simulations (called Disturbed WEPP) has an accuracy range of+- 50% assuming a very controlled study (per the model's documentation). c. Because of the lack of on-site data, studies from Idaho were used in order to get numbers to feed into a computer model. Lack of actual on-site data also prevented the correlation of local soil characteristics against those analyzed in the Idaho studies. Such correlation is required in order to justify using thc Idaho data for input into the computer model. d. A lack of weather data from Mt. Ashland necessitated thc use of data from Big Red Mountain (BRM). While BRM is relatively close (7.5mi) to Mt. Ashland significant errors can still be introduced duc possible differences in micro- climates. Thc computer model is especially sensitive to weather assumptions. e. The computer model used for thc simulations is so sensitive to thc inputs that thc results can vary by 2-3 orders of magnitude depending on normal variations (weather, site-to-site differences in softs, cte). This is based on a scientific paper published by thc USFS's chief scientist in charge of the model. To put this in perspective, if the DEIS predicts that 10 cu yards of sediment will be delivered then the actual amount might be 10,000 cu yards. f. Development and use of computer models is a complex field of specialization. I worked for Intel Corp as a specialist in thc development and usc of computer models to simulate thc behavior of complex systems. While the types of models I worked with were different than was used for this analysis, thc methodologies and pitfalls of using such models are uuivcrsal. Unfortunately, the temptation to use a computer model to answer such questions is overwhelming when quick results are demanded. Models produce a bottom line number that is easily accepted by managers and the public. Unfommately, the number of pitfalls associated with modeling is huge- especially when the users are either not experts or under intense pressure to generate results quickly. g. The analysis does not take many factors into consideration. The documentation for the computer model states it is not intended for: i. "Watersheds having incised, permanent channels (classical gullies and stream channels)" ii. "Sites where soil is severely disturbed or compacted, such as roads and trails" iii. "Headcut erosion" iv. "Sloughing of gully sidewalls" v. "Effects of seepage on erosion in concentrated flow channels" The following graphic summarizes many of the concerns about the reliability of the projections: Inability to do proper correlation due to insufficient local data Sensitivity to inputs: Model results can vmy by 2-3 orders of magnitude Model Validation: Insufficient local data to validate Mt. Ashland Lack of / ~ / Wea~er ~hland dam / / Moun~in / Model Accuracy: Unreliable +- 50% Results Computer Model f I (disturbed WEPP) (Many Factom not Modeled) In summary, there is substantial reason to doubt the projections concerning thc amount of sediment that might be delivered into our water supply. 2. Political environment not conducive to good science: The politic environment within the USFS prevents well-intentioned scientists from doing good work. Senator Smith - someone with great influence on USFS funding - wrote a letter to Linda Duffy urging "favorable consideration of Alternative 2 so this project can move forward." This placed significant pressure on the regional office to favor one alternative over the others. Based on discussions with ex-employees of the USFS it is evident that thc local managers arc graded based on how well they complete projects - not on the objectivity of their team's scientific analysis. Additionally, our regional office has already seen reductions in headcount and will see a further reduction in headeount of 30-50% next year. Thc same managers that are under pressure to complete projects are the ones who will decide who gets laid off. Hence, the scientists arc under severe pressure to tow the party line and come up with results that support expansion. Note that in a climate of career survival the safeguarding of Ashland's water supply is not their main concern. You are the only people in the world with the ability to safeguard our assets based on an objective decision making process. 3. Staffing and Resource Limitations: Because of project loads and reduced staffing the existing USFS staff is being asked to do more with less. Even in the absence of polifieai pressures it is impossible to place such burdens on a scientific team and expect to come away with results based on good scientific methodologies. 4. Financial Risk to the City: The financial risk to the city appears to have been understated for the following reasons: a. Damage due to floods. Any additional loading of sediment into the watershed channels represents the potential for additional damage in the case ora flood. The next major flood will result in the unloading of that sediment causing deposition in Reeder Res. ~0ong with additional damage to properties downstream. Additionally, increased runoff from the ski area increases the amount of water coming down the channels during a big storm. This also increases the potential for greater flood damage. b. Cost of restoration is expected to be much higher since the condition of the soils is not conducive to re-vegetation efforts. Mt. Ashland lacks topsoil and nutrients and has some of the most erosive soils found anywhere. Restoring the roads and ski runs will be a long-term effort and very cosily. Ironically, it is in the city's best interest to ensure such restoration efforts are done well for water quality reasons. c. The stated values of the ski area assets appear inflated. Large ski areas typically buy new high-speed chair lifts and many small ski areas have closed recently - factors that result in a reduced available market for old, slow, two-person chairlifts. Additionally, the equipment will depreciate over time leaving the city with a large financial liability in case the ski area folds. d. The possibility ofglobai warming has been ignored in the DEIS. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric administration predicts snow levels will rise by 1100' in this region over the next 15-20 years. If this happens then the ski area will not be viable and there will be little market for the assets. An additional negative effect of this will be an increased amount of rain reaching the erosive soils due to reduced levels of snow. Summary: In summary, the burden of proof lies upon the Forest Service and the MAA to show undue risk will not be placed upon every citizen and business in Ashland. Clearly, there is substantial reason to doubt the reliability of the analysis that the DEIS sediment delivery projections were based on. The analysis - per USFS documentation and peer reviewed papers - might be offby two to three orders of magnitude. Additionally, credible and independent scientists have questioned the effectiveness and the cost of mitigation measures. The potential risk to our water supply warrants action by Council. From a financial standpoint the expansion poses additional risk to the city. The threat of additional flood damage and the liability of unknown restoration costs also leads to the conclusion that action is warranted. Once again, please consider the following antions: 1. Pass a resolution requesting that no expansion occur in the middle fork. This is in order to safeguard our financial assets and the integrity of our water supply. 2. Pass a resolution stating that we do not want the expansion to occur in the middle fork on thc basis of values per the Vaidez Principals. 3. Pass a resolution requesting that the MAA implement the erosion mitigation measures outlined in the DEIS for the proposed expansion on the existing ski area before any expansion occurs. 4. Collateral for Restoration costs should be in real dollars, not depreciating assets Respectively, Ken Crocker 134 Nutley St. Ashland, OR L, OPy District'Ran~r Ashland Ranger Di~ict 645 Waghin~ton Street Ashisnt[, OR 97520 WASHINGTON, DC 20510.3704 I have been contaeted bythe Board of Directors ofSkl/~nh!and and othe~r interest~cl citize~ reg-~zdlng thc Draf~ Env:~roh~ntal ~mpact Statement f~r thc ski ar~a on M~.~Askland. Ashl.._ I~v: to again let you know o£my support for th;s project) The opomtors .of Mt. proven their ability to b~ fiscally responsible, environmentally sensiuve, and good stewards ofpublic.l, ands. The benefits of the expansion of this facility outweigh.any potential negative impacts. (Alternative 2 i) the best choice and will provide greater service and safety in an economic and eh~ironmen~d~y sound way. I rage favorable consideration of Alternative 2 so this project can move forward and ~/~ i~-nefit economic, recreational, and environmental concerns. Sincerely, Gordon H. Smith United States Senator. I'm L.C. of 223 Fifth St. in Ashland. My family, in 3 kids learned to ski on Mt. Ashland, and we continue to use the ski area as well as the undeveloped areas for winter fun. We also spend time on the mountain after the snow is gone in the Summer and Fall. We hike and explore the beautiful ridges, streams, alpine meadows and enjoy the spectacular views. Tonight, we need to discuss all of the seasons on Mt. Ashland, not just the ski season. The proposed expansion would forever change some of the most beautiful and unique places on the mountain. The proposed Middle Fork crossing and adjacent ski runs requires cutting a swath through virgin forest including rare tree species. About a month ago, I participated in a hike sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service through the proposed expansion area. When we stopped to look closely at the Middle Fork area, I asked Steve Johnson of the Forest Service what would happen to the beautiful glade of Engleman Spruce and the sort of spongy bog that we were standing on, when the trees were removed to create the new ski trail. He said that opening that spot to the full sun would cause significant change to the plants as well as the natural sponge that mediates the water of the Middle Fork. I asked, "what will it look like when this is opened up?" His answer was refreshingly honest, "We don't know". This was a very different answer than most of the statements in the Draft ElS that speak very "knowingly" based on educated guesses. Unfortunately, "we don't know" applies to one of the most sensitive areas that is proposed to be altered. I ask the Council to include the following comment on the Draft ElS: Environmental Impact Statements are required to address community values when deciding on appropriate alternatives for proposed activities in the National Forest. In the case of the Mt. Ashland Ski Expansion Proposal, community values are extremely important to evaluate. Not only do the proposed activities take place in the City of Ashland Watershed; the proposal also calls for clearing of old growth trees and cutting adjacent to very sensitive riparian areas. The changes proposed would forever alter the landscape, soils and water features in and around an exisiting roadless area. Therefore, the question must be asked of the community, "What is the value of the proposed project area to you as local citizens, users of the forest, users of the watershed, gazers at the mountain top from the valley, concemed environmentalists? Is the proposed project area better left undisturbed, or do we, as a community, find the area more valuable as an expanded downhill ski area?" This question has not been answered in the Draft ElS. Cloer 815 Creek Stone Way Ashland, OR 97520-9118 (541) 482-8364 10/1/2003 To: The Council From: Hal Cloer I ~<~,, Ski Ashland Expansion Most of the front page of today's Tidings is taken up by two pictures: one featuring a "Stop the expansion" T-shirt, the other a large "No more runs" sign--and page 3 features a nice looking lady holding up a "Resist Mt. Ashland Expansion" sign. I'd not planned on putting in my two cents, since I'm sure the council has enough input on which to evaluate the validity of the proposed expansion. But I'm beginning to worry that the balancing of conflicting values may be tilted by which values are premnted most forcefully-- rather than by a dispassionate weighing of conflicting values. As an ex-planning commissioner, I can show councilors a couple of developments in which the commission's efforts to achieve affordability, emergency vehicle access, pedestrian safety, and open space values were ail eliminated when neighbors, anxious and uncertain about development of open areas, stormed the council and converted problem-solving to political theater. In this instance supporters of"the environment" clearly have the wind of the ethos behind them, and are thus freer to be more passionate in their support than are supporters of more mundane values. But, while balancing conflicting values as well as can be done for the attainment of all, the council must attempt to decide what is best for the community and the area. I feel reassured that sufficient attention will be given to protection of Ashland's water supply and to environmental factors. But, from media coverage, I worry that sufficient weight may not be given to the viability of Ski Ashland. I think that the importance of Ski Ashland to the winter economy of the community and to Southern Oregon is reflected in the proportion of the cost of the "Save Mt. Ashland" effort that was paid by the state. The effect of the ski development on SOU's winter term is reflected in the decision of the college to undertake its operation for awhile. And while they'll not be carrying signs or packing your hearings, there are many people in the valley whose well-being in the winter is related to the viability of Ski Ashland. As an individual, I greatly valued the opportunity to leave my foggy home and in 30 minutes be skiing in a glittering snow-covered alpine setting. But I can testify that the absence of easier slopes is clearly limiting the safety and viability of Ski Ashland. I hope that councilors will balance conflicting values carefully. 590 Glenview Drive Ashland, Oregon 97520 October 1, 2003 CITY COUNCIL Ashland, Oregon 97520 Re: PROPOSED MT. ASHLAND EXPANSION Speaking as an individual avid skier, and former 6 year full-time ski instructor at Mt. Ashland, I find Alternative #3 as the ONLY proposal to SUBSTANTIALLY fulfill MASA needs and validate MASA'S claim of a "sound plan that utilizes modem stewardship principles and prudent use of our resources". Alt. #3 can do that and yet be in accordance with the Hippocratic Oath, "TO DO NO HARM". Specifically, to do no harm to the City Council's four key issues: water quality, water quantity, fire and financial dsk. Paula Brown's idea of an overview committee is good, but the BEST ASSURANCE is NOT to enter the most sensitive areas AT ALL. Each public hearing I've attended has been a well-orchestrated rally for Alternative #2, by proponents who were uniformly MASA employees, retired employees, board members, or special program directors, but not everyday users. On the other hand, with a wide range of opinions, the opponents were from Sierra Club, Headwaters, and the general public. I recently attended anAIA conference in Portland where the topic was "Ar.chit~ctur. e in..~n ....... Environment of Public Participation". Repeatedly, Conference speakers said the "buy-in" to the project by consensus among the stakeholders is critical to success!! It is called the "ownership-loop", that is, "the final design needs to be MEANINGFUL TO MANY or the PROJECT WON'T BE USED", (i.e.,"economic return")!!! The citizens of Ashland, through City Council, are the primary stakeholders in this case. After all, it is OUR one and only watershed. The expressed support of the Medford City Council and the Jackson County Commissioners for Alternative #2 has lesser importance than that of our own citizens and Council because the expansion will directly effect potential damages to our City watershed, and any future necessity, to restore the mountain to its undeveloped state at City taxpayer expense.l There is a huge force crying for an "expansion" of existing runs which I don't think can be totally denied. However, "to do no harm" means a consensus, a COMPROMISE, which is offered in Alternative #3 as follows: (ref. DEIS) 1. MOST IMPORTANTLY, Chairlift LC-6 is sited furthest to the east so it and the runs DO NOT go into the Engleman Spruce area nor interfere with wetlands and dparian reserves. The proposed runs will definitely fulfill the needs of beginners WITHOUT management's' claim of the necessity of Run #12. Z. 42 acres of tree removal are far less intrusive than 76 acres. 3. This is the only alternative that puts a "chair" lift on the existing old Poma run which is ideal for race training, (as it had been used in past years), which will free-up space now used for race training on the general public runs. 4. ~There is NO Moraine Lodge to clutter up the pdstine Bowl. There are simple-toilet facilities and ski patrol hut proposed in that area. (Those 2 structures should be combined for utility efficiency and sited against the trees for less intrusion upon the environment). 5. Approximately 51 acres of gladed skiing are included offedng new runs for experts. 6. It's the only plan that puts crucial remodeling of the existing Lodge in Phase I. 7. The parking increase is less intrusive environmentally. (Actually, instead of increasing parking, management should develop a shuttle system on weekends and holidays). 8. It reduces effects on Mt. Ashland lupine and Henderson's horkelia, and reduces effects with the McDonald Peak Roadless Area. 9. The user-unfriendly surface lift, (rope tow), from the base of Windsor up to the Skiway is eliminated. Hurrah· 10. It is the LEAST EXPENSIVE ALTERNATIVE at 1.9 million dollars. · However, the following weak points of Alternative #3 should be eliminated: I. Proposed SEPARATE "arrival services" building and "ticket" building are not cost effective. Logically, it seems that the "extensive" existing lodge remodel could incorporate some of these uses. (I know changing the lodge footprint takes special permits, but the balconies could be enclosed). At the least, combine the 2 proposed buildings into one structure for utility efficiency and less intrusion upon the environment. 2. NO scenario makes the Tubing Facility a necessity! Where are the people clamoring for this facility? Population and financial statistics are missing. Expecting people to pay $1 5 per pass to ride an inner tube is akin to expecting people to pay to use a state-of-the-art hop- scotch gdd. It is theoretically foolish, environmentally intrusive, and significantly dilutes the PRIMARY commitment of MASA--TO SERVE SKIERS AND BOARDERS!! It is a little mountain; it can't do everything. There are Z elements in Alt. #5 that might be included in a later phase using money saved by eliminating the Tubing Facility. 1). Replace the existing old Ariel Chairlift. 2). Perhaps add Lift LC-5 which is located on sparsely treed slopes at dght angles to the top of Sonnet chairlift which would provide more easy terrain faiHy close to Sonnet and the lodge. Please do not chose an alternative that will bring in tree-sitters from all across the country. Without a BROAD BASED CONSENSUS, via a compromise, the "ownership-loop" is severely constrained, and thus MASA fundraising will fall short for Phase 1. Alternative #3, with slight modifications, is a win-win choice!! Apart from the DEIS, I suggest that management choose lift/run names that stay with the Shakespearean theme as "community specific" as well as a general educational tool. Names might include King Lear, Lady Macbeth, Dogberry, Hamlet, Shylock, Desdemona, Peaseblossom, Portia, Fool, etc.. Respectfully submitted, M ~,,~ ?n Brigg~---..~ Ashland Ski Expansion Sept. 30, 2003 My evaluation tonight is geared to the Municipal Watershed for the city of Ashland. I have worked in this area for many years and in the past have extensively walked the area I am talking about. The latest walk was this past August. First, my evaluation of the East Fork of Ashland Creek: Here the creek channel liom the Ski area down is in a degraded condition. This was undoubtedly caused by the eftL~ts of added runoff from disturbed conditions such as roads, etc. causing the creek channel to carry the added runoff. The results are common sediment deposits in the channel and bank cutting which has created channel bank sloughing and small debris slides. These have added to the unstable channel by diverting water flow into the banks. The bank side slopes, often in exeass of 70 to 80 % slopes are steeper than the noncohesive soils eau stand so they slough (basically like a sand castle). There is really nothing we can do for this condition now other tha~ not add to the effects. We do that by addressing cumulative effects of pianned projects that may add to the runoffvolume and velocity. As a side note, I walked down this East Fk. in the 80's and again, as mentioned in Aug of this year. The channel in the 80's had just been sluiced out by flood waters so was open for flow. Today there are relatively large and many sediment deposits that have built up in the channel and are ready for another high water event. My observations are that the channel is in a more degraded condition today than it was in the 80's. (raw, eroding banks) Now the East Fork proper is d'rfferent terrain than the Middle fork of the East fork. This East fork has overall steeper slopes and the soils are relatively shallower and developed in place with some ravel near the toeslopes. The Middle fork is a mix of gentle and steep slopes but the soils are generally very deep deposits f~om Mountain glaciation and are very permeable. The soils textures are basically of the same noncohesive sandy, highly eroclible material but generally occur on 4 land conditions. They are: 1. Gently sloping grassed wetlands with surface and ground water saturation. 2. Gently sloping timbered wetlands with surface and ground water. Both with G.W.pipes. 3. Uplands with timber stands and no significant ground water. 4. Upland appearing timber stands with E. Spruce. These areas appear visually the same as the Uplands without the E. Spruce but differ in having ground water at depths of 1 to 3 feet during most of the year. Recognition of this type and ground water is very critical. The Middle Fork drainage is in (what I call Dynamic equilibrium) because it has not and is not currently affected by any management activities or cumulative effects fi~om above. There are signs of erosion & sediment on some of the grassed wetlands due to piping failures and storm runoffbut it is trapped on site. The concern for the Middle fork drainage is the effect management activities may have on wetlands & the ground water, especially in the (upland appearing E. Spruce stands). Here, as mentioned the area appears dry to the eye but the subsurface water, if intercepted by excavations such as the C6 terminal base may/will be intercepted and a new surface flow (creek) will be created. This can adversely effect the Municipal watershed character. Interception has happened in many road cuts on other areas of the Forest with new water channels being created. If excavation occurs while the watertable is low or below it then mitigation may be overlooked until erosion damage occurs in the spring. In review of the DEIS, I fred the costs for mitigation and restoration have been grossly underestimated. I say this from experience in trying to restore past soil resource problems. Examples of costs are: air lifting rock rip rap to the needed site and manually hand placing the rock down channels, etc. These soils and this terrain once adversely impacted is extremely hard and costly to restore or in most cases cannot be restored to past conditions in human terms of time. George J. Badura Professional Soil Scient'~ 2 TESTIMONY IN SUPPORT OF THE EXPANSION OF THE MT. ASHLAND SKI AREA Good evening. My name is Brian Almquist, and I reside at 128 Wimer Street in Ashland. I am here tonight to express my strong support for Alternative No. 2 of the proposed expansion of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. As the Council is aware, I served as City Administrator of the City of Ashland from 1970 until my retirement in 1998. During my 28 year tenure with the City, I had the opportunity to become intimately familiar with the Ashland watershed and its interface with the ML Ashland Ski Area, which had been under the management of four different entities before the lease and facilities were acquired by the City of Ashland in April of 1992. Several members of thc Council will recall that the previous owners, who were also the owners of the Stevens Pass Ski Area in Washington State, had announced that if a buyer could not be found, it was their intention to close Mt. Ashland, and relocate the lifts to Stevens Pass. Recognizing the recreational and economic benefits that would be lost to our region, the council authorized me to call a community meeting of concerned citizens, to determine if there was sufficient interest in developing a strategy to save the Ski Area. Twenty-five individuals were invited to a meeting at Ashland Hills Inn (now the Windmill Inn)....but nearly 75 attended! Out of that meeting came a steering committee which worked with city staff and service clubs from throughout the region, to raise the $1.4 million that was needed to acquire the lease and facilities from the owners in Seattle. As you know, the money was raised by hundreds of people in the Valley and the Grants Pass area in the form of small donations, together with a $500,000 grant from the Governor's economic development fund, and one $100,000 anonymous donation. All of these funds were deposited with the City, to insure the tax deductibllity for the donors. The City then worked out a sub-lease with a newly created non-profit entity, named the Mt. Ashland Association, to operate the facility. That sub-lease has built-in protections regarding the maintenance of a reserve fund and/or marketable assets, sufficient for restoration of the area if the enterprise were to fall. In addition, when the facility was acquired, the previous owners had sPent over $200,000 on plans for future expansion, and the Forest Service had prepared an EIS on the various alternatives. The City Staff was an active participant in that planning process, and was successful in modifying the preferred alternative in several ways, to protect the watershed. We also recognized at that time, that unless improvements could be made to the facility, it would have a difficult time attracting the full range of skiers, and may have a difficult time surviving,.economically. Here we find ourselves, over 10 years later, still discussing the same issues. Following this new planning process, Alternative 2 has been crafted to meet all of the concerns raised during the current process, and will have no significant impact on water quality in Reeder Reservoir. The monitoring proposed in this alternative both during and after construction, will absolutely insure that Ashland's water quality will not be adversely impacted. Finally, let me say that the issues and challenges we recognized when the City of Ashland acquired Mt. Ashland in 1992, remain the same today, lfwe truly want to keep this facility an attractive, safe area for beginning and intermediate skiers, we desperately need to provide the terrain that will keep our ski area economically sound for years to come. I URGE YOU TO CONTINUE TO SUPPORT THE MT. ASm,AND SKI AREA AS YOU DID IN 1992, AND TO ALLOW THF~ FOREST SERVICE TO COMPLETE ITS PROCESS, WITH THE ADOPTION OF PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE NO. 2.