Eldora was recently recognized by the ski industry and given two awards for excellence.

Eldora is by no way the largest ski resort in the nation or in Colorado yet they are helping to lead the way and increase awareness of how ski resorts can help protect the environment and reduce waste. For their sustainability efforts and successes the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) has awarded Eldora with the Golden Eagle Award for Environmental Excellence, Climate Impact.

“We are so proud to get this nod from NSAA,” says Hunter Wright, Eldora’s Sustainability Manager. “It highlights not only our efforts to date but the need for Eldora and the broader ski industry to continue prioritizing sustainability in every aspect of resort operations and the guest experience.”

Eldora works closely with Xcel Energy to meet carbon reduction goals at the ski resort. Each department at Eldora finds to make the place more “green.” All employees are encouraged to participate and help in the effort. A grant has been applied for to purchase and install recycling stations in the parking lots.

Another grant has been applied for to fund biodegradable ski/board wax that is used on the rental equipment in the Ski & Ride School. Compostable utensils are being used in the Food & Beverage Department. Eldora has removed all plastic straws from their property.

They are committed to changing to all electric vehicles and upgrading to energy efficient lighting. They are also investing in more efficient snowmaking equipment that will use less water and energy.

Eldora’s Marketing Director Sam Bass said that last season Food & Beverage employee Carson MacDonald spearheaded the PPE nitrile glove recycling initiative. Bass says, “Carson collected hundreds of pounds of gloves, packed them in boxes to ship to Terracycle, which turned them into picnic tables, building material, etc. Carson also worked hard behind the food lines to make sure waste was sorted properly order to prevent cross-contamination between compost and recycling waste diversion streams.”

This award was truly a group effort by managers, supervisors and all the seasonal employees who clean the tables, get your skis to fit and help you get on the lifts.

The second award was given to Kevin Sprecher, Eldora’s Terrain Park Manager. Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) named Sprecher the Terrain Master of the Year during the Double Diamond Awards Ceremony.

Sprecher manages the Woodward terrain park at Eldora. He is praised for his leadership, creativity and professionalism.

“Kevin built an exceptionally progressive system that incorporates all skill levels and provides opportunity for fun and challenges for every skill of skier and rider,” says Eldora’s snow surface manager, Chris Cipolletti. “His motivation to perform and lead his crew not only keeps them engaged but inspires them to work hard and encourages creativity.”

Eldora does not use their size as an excuse for not pursuing excellence. These two awards show that the ski industry has noticed the work they have done and the work they continue to do.

For more information about what Eldora is up to, check out https://www.eldora.com/.