Mars Hill, ME – Officials at Katahdin Trust Company on Monday announced that the financial institution has donated $15,000 toward ensuring the financial self-sufficiency of the Bigrock Mountain ski area in Mars Hill, citing not only the importance of affordable, healthy, family winter activities but also the economic impact it has on Aroostook County.

The bank, which operates 17 branches throughout Aroostook County and the greater Bangor area, including a branch in Mars Hill, has stepped forward in conjunction with other area business leaders to provide funding necessary to keep Bigrock open.

“We are most appreciative of Katahdin Trust Company’s support,” said Bill Getman, General Manager of Bigrock Mountain. “This contribution brings us closer to our goal of $300,000 to keep the ski area open and fund a three-year plan to restore the mountain to profitability.”

“Bigrock Mountain is a source of pride for not only the families and businesses in Mars Hill, but also the surrounding communities,” stated Jon Prescott, President and CEO of Katahdin Trust Company. “We are privileged to make this pledge in the knowledge that Bigrock Mountain is a great asset to the area and an operation that should be preserved. Together, we can make this happen and we’ll continue to work diligently to help ensure the fiscal viability of Bigrock,” added Prescott.

Bigrock Mountain, a non-profit organization, was effectively closed after losing critical funding in August. In preparation for the upcoming ski season and many more that follow, the Friends of Bigrock was formed to raise enough funds to own, operate, and integrate major changes to their operating model to become a more self-sustaining organization.