Denver, CO – U.S. Senator Mark Udall (D-CO) today introduced a bill that would revise the 1986 law governing the permitting of ski areas on National Forests to make it clear that the Forest Service is authorized to permit year-round recreational activities where appropriate.

The bill recognizes that winter sports other than skiing occur in those areas, and that these areas also can be used for other recreational activities throughout the year if the Forest Service deems them appropriate.

“Ski areas are an important part of our recreational and tourist economy, not only in Colorado but throughout the nation,” said Udall. “These facilities also provide outdoor experiences that promote good health and an appreciation for the natural environment. This bill, which applies to ski areas permitted on Forest Service land, continues to promote these values by making it clear that they are destinations for winter sports, as well as year-round opportunities like biking, concerts, and other recreational activities that are consistent with mountain environments and amenities.

“As our economy is still struggling, we need to make it clear that these year-round opportunities are welcome and available to help promote jobs, stimulate local economies and provide educational and recreational activities for families,” Udall concluded.

The proposed legislation also recognizes that the Forest Service issues permits for recreational activities outside of ski areas. As a result, the bill makes it clear that permitting year-round activities at ski areas will not have an effect on the number of permits that the Forest Service can appropriately issue for these activities outside of ski area permit boundaries.

Environmentalists oppose Udall’s bill, fearing that it would give rise to roller coasters, water parks and other attractions inconsistent with a National Forest environment.