Ski Bluewood Readies for the Season

DAYTON-Kim Clark, General Manager of Ski Bluewood wants to get the word out about $400,000 worth of facility improvements that are sure to make this year's skiing even more "uplifting."

"We have just completed the first lift improvement since 1986," he said.

Clark said the old platter-pull has been removed and replaced with two conveyor-type lifts, one of which is the 120 ft. Easy Rider, with two separate teaching pods.

The other is a completely covered, 400 ft. long, teaching area.

The idea is to practice turns and stops on the 120 ft. lift before moving on to the 400 ft. lift, to further your skills, said Clark.

There is also a new 30 ft. mountain-top yurt off the top of the Skyline chair, with a fireplace and propane stovetop for daytime use, he said.

The $40,000 warming hut will feature "light grab-and-go" foods and beverages such as soup, chili, hot chocolate and coffee.

"We are also applying for a beer and wine license for up there," said Clark.

Clark said two years ago guests were surveyed as to what they would like to see at the ski resort. Consequently, the rental shop has been expanded with all new equipment, and the carpet has been replaced inside the lodge.

"Every one of these projects is a direct result of that survey," said Clark.

In total, the owners have spent over $540,000 in capital improvements over two years, Clark said.

Improvements are also underway to mitigate environmental impacts with regard to noise, water consumption, and soil erosion. The goal is to build the infrastructure out, so that more year-round activities can take place.

Clark said there are 160 paid employees during the four-month season, making the resort the county's second-largest employer during that time.

Retaining staff has been problematic, said Clark. There are only six employees during the summer months. But having year-round capability will help balance the equation, he said.

"We are looking to hire in every department: food and beverage, janitorial, maintenance, snow sports, ski patrol, instructors, ticket sales and retail cashiers," Clark said.

Clark said Bluewood's annual Fall Job Fair will take place on Saturday, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Columbia County Fairgrounds.