Flagstaff, AZ – Even as its battle over snowmaking still rages in the courts, Arizona Snowbowl above Flagstaff has received permission from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to build a new beginner lift and log areas for expanded ski terrain.nAccording to published reports, Coconino National Forest District Ranger Mike Elson approved the ski area’s plans in late September that call for a new beginner conveyor lift and regrading of a 1.5 acre area due north of the ski resort’s lower lodge to create a more user friendly novice slope. Plans also call for a widening of the Agassiz chair liftline near the Spur Catwalk at the summit.

With winter fast approaching, it’s unclear whether or not construction on the upgrades can be completed in time for the 2010-11 ski and snowboard season at Snowbowl.

Attorneys for the Plaintiffs fighting Arizona Snowbowl’s plan to install 95% snowmaking coverage say that they expect a federal judge’s decision in that matter by the end of this month, although they vow to fight any adverse decision at the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.