Bogus Basin Celebrates Ideal Snow Conditions, Gears Up For Annual Memorial To Honor Patrollers

As Bogus Basin prepares for an impactful weekend event to honor five special fallen heroes, guests at the non-profit are reveling in nearly three feet of fresh snowfall that has hit the area in the past week. The base area snow depth at the non-profit is currently measuring 126% above normal, according to OpenSnow.

March is historically a month of continued snow accumulation in southwestern Idaho. With forecasts predicting additional snowfall throughout the weekend, area officials are starting to contemplate the possibility of reaching a milestone 100-inch base. Last year, the area received 119” of snow in March alone, more than January and February combined.

“We are very pleased with the season thus far – With great snowfall and an above average snow pack, this spring season is shaping up to be top notch. said Nate Shake, Director of Operations

On Saturday, March 9th, Bogus Basin Ski Patrol will host its annual Final Sweep Memorial—a longtime tradition paying tribute to area patrollers who have passed away. The event honors their legacy and invaluable contributions to the area. As part of the Final Sweep Memorial, fellow patrollers transport a personal item down the slope on a final toboggan descent on the Upper and Lower Ridge runs toward the Simplot Base Area. During the ceremony, prepared bios and personal tributes will be read aloud by fellow patrollers.

“Bogus Basin Ski Patrol is like a big family. Whether volunteers or lifelong careers, we all take pride in supporting one another so we can provide aid to the community as a team. We are honored to pay our respects to those who have dedicated their lives to keeping the community safe.” added Devon Haire, Bogus Basin Patrol Manager

The Final Sweep Memorial symbolizes a responsibility of patrollers everywhere. At the close of daily operations, members perform a “final sweep,” riding all the runs to make sure no one is left behind. Saturday’s Memorial Sweep will honor Tom Muncy, Ted Dietz, Bob Entwistle, and Lester Downer. Additionally, tribute will be paid to former Bogus Basin General Manager Mike Shirley, who passed away last summer. During his 21-year tenure as GM, Shirley spearheaded development and initiatives that played an instrumental role in shaping Bogus Basin into the thriving community asset that it is today.

In addition to the sweep, congratulations will be extended to Bogus Basin Patroller Pam Carson, who was awarded the National Patroller of the Year accolade at the Patrol National Ceremony last summer, further exemplifying the dedication and excellence within Bogus Basin’s patrol community.

“Volunteer ski patrol is a great way to learn new skills, make new friends and help guests enjoy recreating at Bogus Basin safely. Volunteers patrol the mountain on the weekends and provide additional staffing for night skiing and riding.” concluded Patrick Arnold, National Ski Patrol, Volunteer Group Leader