SIDEBAR: Reactions to Peña decision

Editor’s note: We asked people and organizations that have been involved with the Snodgrass expansion issue for their comments on the appeal decision. Here is what they told us.

“We find it amazing that one person can make a decision behind closed doors without public involvement that has such a far-reaching impact on a community.”
— Michael Kraatz, CBMR Vice President of Resort Planning and Development

“It’s not about winning or losing. We will still work together for the future of the Gunnison Valley.”
— Charlie Richmond, GMUG Forest Supervisor

“The GMUG Forest Service determined last November that Snodgrass Mountain is “fundamentally unsuitable” for lift-served skiing and that there is widespread public support for protecting the environment and current recreational uses of Snodgrass. At the request of Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell, Deputy Regional Forester Jim Peña reviewed the decision and affirmed it, concluding that the GMUG conducted a thorough and legal analysis that adhered to USFS procedures.
While Snodgrass is unsuitable for ski area expansion, the USFS notes that: “There are a number of significant projects involving the development of intermediate terrain [on Crested Butte Mountain] that CBMR has chosen to defer… Had CBMR implemented all projects already approved on the existing mountain, visitation trends may not [have declined]… Expanding onto a fundamentally unsuitable mountain may not be the answer… Investment in the product of the existing mountain may lead to more immediate return in terms of stated need.”
Friends of Snodgrass Mountain encourages CBMR to re-focus their efforts and commit their resources to implementing the previously approved expansions and upgrades to their existing ski area. We thank everyone who spoke up to protect a beloved mountain in our National Forest.”
—Friends of Snodgrass Mountain, LLC statement

“Peña’s decision was appalling. Peña didn’t pay any attention to the evidence presented to him that the process has been unfair in many respects, including Richmond’s failure to undertake a formal process to determine public support. We don’t believe this is how such a serious decision about our future should be made. Our membership has been rapidly increasing and this shows that many people are upset and angry with the Forest Service’s refusal to undertake a fair review of the CBMR proposal.”
—Nancy Essex, chairman of the board of directors of the Coalition for Lifts on Snodgrass

“As for me as mayor of Crested Butte, I hope we start working together with what we do have. We do live in the most beautiful place in the world. There is so much we can do with or without Snodgrass. Let’s work toward enhancing our tourism and recreational opportunities that enhance our quality of life. To become a sustainable community we must work together with CBMR, Mt. Crested Butte and Gunnison toward our shared interests and common goals.”
—Leah Williams, Crested Butte Mayor

“It seems like this is another step in the process. The town of Mt. Crested Butte is sending a letter to Chief Tidwell reaffirming our position that we think lifts are appropriate on Snodgrass and a benefit to our community. I still feel positive about the expansion and the need is more than justified.”
— William Buck, Mt. Crested Butte Mayor

“I am not surprised that Mr. Peña upheld the decision made by Charlie Richmond, because there was evidence to support it. However, I think that the points that were raised by CBMR in their appeal were not addressed in the response. The fundamental point was the basis of the appeal was that there was MORE evidence to support a different outcome. This one may have to be settled in court.”
— Paula Swenson, Gunnison County Commissioner