Palisades Tahoe Ski Patrollers Seek Union Representation, Citing Safety Concerns & Working Conditions

In a move that could have significant implications for the future of ski patrol operations at Palisades Tahoe, a California ski resort, its patrollers have submitted a petition to unionize. The union, CWA 7781, the United Professional Ski Patrols of America announced on Monday that they represent the majority of patrollers who have signed authorization cards, formally requesting union recognition from Palisades Tahoe management.

This development comes amidst growing concerns among ski patrollers nationwide regarding staffing shortages, low wages, and a lack of support, which they argue compromise safety and the overall skiing experience.

Palisades Tahoe Professional Patrol Association’s mission statement says “Our mission is to foster a better and safer skiing experience for our customers by improving employee retention and honing our skills. We will create a mechanism to promote safe working conditions, training, education, and wages that reflect our unique skill set and cost of living in our area.”

The United Professional Ski Patrols of America claims that unionizing would allow patrollers to have a collective voice in negotiating for better wages, improved working conditions, and increased staffing levels. They believe this would ultimately benefit both the patrollers and the resort by ensuring a safer and more efficient operation for skiers and snowboarders.

Palisades Tahoe management has yet to officially respond to the unionization petition. However, in a statement, a resort spokesperson acknowledged the filing and said they are "committed to working directly with our patrollers to address their concerns and ensure a safe and rewarding work environment."

The potential unionization of Palisades Tahoe ski patrollers follows a growing trend in the ski industry. 

The outcome of the Palisades Tahoe unionization vote remains to be seen, but it is sure to be closely watched by the ski industry and those concerned with the safety and well-being of ski patrollers across the country.