Taos Ski Valley Proposal Approved

Carson National Forest Supervisor James Duran has signed the final decision notice for proposed improvements within the special use permit area of Taos Ski Valley, Inc. The decision allows the ski area to proceed with several projects under mitigations called project design criteria, many based on public feedback, to reduce environmental impacts.

“I’m proud that we’ve arrived at the conclusion of this process after extensive public feedback and look forward to continued engagement as we prepare for implementation,” said Duran. “We must increase opportunities to benefit local communities while balancing that access with potential impacts for neighbors, both adjacent and downstream in the watershed.”

Between the draft decision notice in November and today’s final, Duran changed the following, based on objection review responses: 

• Modification: Water usage and metering information shall be made publicly available monthly instead of quarterly.
• Clarification: The water conservation plan will include water quality and quantity strategies and monitoring requirements.
• Clarification: Use of the gondola is only for skiers and other ticketed guests. It cannot be used as a public transportation system, unless approved during a further review, which may include an environmental analysis process.
• Correction: Ticket pricing determinations are made by Taos Ski Valley, Inc., not Carson National Forest.

The final decision approves the following projects:

• Base-to-Base Gondola
• Replacement of Lift 2 and Lift 8
• Water Tank and Booster Station
• Nordic and Snowshoe Trails
• Lift 7 Restaurant and Whistlestop Cafe Replacement and Relocation
• Lift 4 Hiking Trail

The final decision, environmental assessment and supporting documents are available online.