Past Project:

Dodge Ridge Snowtubing Proposal (2003-2004)

Dodge Ridge Ski Area (DRSA) wished to build parking lots and a lift-served, fee-based snowtubing area. Although the additional parking may have benefited backcountry skiers, the snowtubing area was to be built in the area occupied by the beginning of the Gooseberry Nordic Ski Trail. The Forest Service planned to relocate the beginning of the trail, which would have resulted in the trail melting out early in the Spring because of the southern exposure of the new location. Snowlands Network appealed the decision that would have relocated the ski trail even if the snowtubing area was not built.

Marcus Libkind and Jim Gibson of Snowlands met with Stanislaus NF Supervisor Tom Quinn and NF staff to discuss the Snowlands appeal. Quinn expressed concern about preserving the opportunity for backcountry skiers and finding the best location for the Gooseberry trail. He agreed to monitor the snow conditions for one, possibly two, seasons to see if the proposed trail location had good snow cover in the spring. Quinn also explained that if the trail were not relocated, DRSA might not agree to set aside parking for backcountry skiers and build a kiosk. Marcus also brought up the issue of downhill skiers using the Gooseberry trail as an out-of-bounds downhill ski trail.

In a letter to Quinn after the meeting, Marcus stated under what circumstances Snowlands would withdraw their appeal. Quinn responded saying that he would agree (with clarifications) to all requests except prohibiting DRSA customers from using the Gooseberry trail. The agreement included monitoring snow depth for one or more years before determining to where the trail should be relocated. The best location, with limitations should the snowtubing facility be constructed, will be determined collaboratively between the Forest Service, Snowlands Network, and the Nordic Ski Patrol.

Since the agreement provided the backcountry ski and snowshoe community a good outcome, Snowlands withdraw its appeal.