My personal safety would be compromised by having large groups of people located uphill from me in avalanche terrain. The helicopter itself could trigger an avalanche. The heli-skiers who are not familiar with backcountry terrain could trigger an avalanche. Or worst case scenario, the guides could perform avalanche mitigation unbeknownst of my presence.

Thus far there have been few conflicts between backcountry travelers and the Silverton Mountain helicopter operation because the mountain’s permit area is very remote from county roads and highways. If the BLM allows the mountain to expand its permit area into places that are easily accessible, then tragic conflicts could immediately ensue.

I strongly believe that the BLM has a duty to taxpayers to minimize such conflicts with profit-seeking enterprises. Otherwise, who will be liable when a backcountry skier is accidentally killed or injured from a conflict with helicopter skiing? I believe the BLM would be liable for allowing such a blatant misuse of public lands for one company’s interests.

Silverton Mountain’s proposal should swiftly be denied by the BLM. If the mountain wants to expand its operations, then it must be into areas that are not easily accessed by the public. The BLM has a duty to the citizens to prevent tragic conflicts.

I urge the public to email [email protected] to voice their opposition to this proposal.

Chandler Marechal

Durango