Helicopter Skiing Allowed To Continue

Thu., Oct. 10, 1996

From Staff And Wire Reports

Guided backcountry helicopter skiing will be allowed to continue in the Sawtooth National Forest.

Forest Supervisor Bill LeVere decided on Tuesday to issue a five-year permit to Sun Valley Heli Ski to provide the skiing opportunities and operate a commercial shelter.

LeVere said Sun Valley Heli Ski’s plan provides reasonable safeguards from accidents, avalanches and other problems. It also protects wildlife and has provisions to minimize conflicts between winter recreation uses in the forest, he said.

The five-year permit will be similar to the one-year special-use permit under which the company now operates, except it would close Easley, Hyndman, Cobb and Old Hyndman peaks to helicopter skiing.

Some areas considered crucial to the survival of wintering wildlife also will be checked to ensure they are clear of wolverines, elk and mountain goats before any helicopter skiing occurs.

The special use permit boundary includes portions of the Ketchum and Fairfield ranger districts and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

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Helicopter Skiing Allowed To Continue

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