Alta Issues Sustainability Report 2020
At Alta Ski Area, they focus on implementing sustainability efforts that seek to balance the needs of the environment, skier community and operating a business. In our 83 year history, Alta has evolved from a tiny skiing outpost to the world-class, powder renowned ski area of today. Throughout all of these changes, it is the Alta Environmental Center's (AEC) responsibility to encourage sustainable practices and look after the natural environment in which we operate. This year's annual sustainability report includes updates on how the AEC incorporates sustainability in all its efforts.
Conservation
The AEC helps guide the ski area's internal sustainability efforts while working with third-party entities to address changing conservation needs. Land conservation is a full circle process at Alta Ski Area and begins by gathering seeds from plants and trees within the ski area. Our partners, Dryland Horticulture and Sun Mountain Growers, grow up to 5,000 plant and 1,500 tree seedlings, respectively, over the winter. These seedlings are replanted throughout Alta in their natural habitat. This past summer, the AEC planted 1,300 trees and 3,754 plants, collected 26 species of seed and treated 101 acres for invasive species.
Summer Recreation
Alta Ski Area managed the summer road at the end of Little Cottonwood Canyon again this past summer. Visitation increased by more than 10,000 people this summer. Of the 91,732 vehicles passing through the Town of Alta, 29% continued up the summer road into Albion Basin. 65% of Forest Ranger engagements within the ski area regarded the topics of trails and watershed. New this summer was the installation of stone stairs from Catherine's Parking lot connecting to the switchbacks in the Albion Basin. Also, new this summer, a trail was installed on the south side of the Summer Road from Catherine's Parking lot to Cecret Lake trailhead. This new trail provided a safe route between the two parking areas in Albion Basin. More on Summer Stewardship Programs.
Partners
The AEC would not be successful without support from local partners. Partners are essential in helping to maintain the natural mountain environment at Alta. Partners who contribute to land conservation efforts include Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, Friends of Alta, US Forest Service and TreeUtah.
Winter Education
The AEC continues its efforts during the winter months with on-mountain events. Birding on Skis, in conjunction with Tracy Aviary, provides the opportunity to observe over 100 different species of birds that call Alta home. Cottonwood Canyons Foundation volunteer naturalists guide the Snowshoe with a Naturalist tour and Ski with a Ranger tour; both tours shed light on Alta's unique ecosystem.
To learn more about the AEC and Alta's sustainability efforts or subscribe to the AEC e-newsletter, visit alta.com.
