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Monarch improvements and updates for the 2009-2010 Season. The guys and gals at Monarch were very busy this summer, lots of new improvements to the ski area and the base area for the upcoming season. Like many ski areas in Colorado, Monarch is working to be greener. Reducing their carbon footprint by saving energy where they can, reducing the environmental impact, and providing recycling stations throughout the mountain. This year Monarch made several good steps. First, they put in new super energy efficient light bulbs, up to 75% more efficient. A excellent and easy step, something you should do at your own house if you haven't already. The local community is also working hard to conserve energy and develop sustainable energy sources. These combined efforts are making Chaffee County a good example for other communities in Colorado. In addition, they have greatly expanded their recycling program, with several places to recycle plastic bottles and a special hydration station (water fountain) to fill your water bottles and camelbacks. That's right, bring a reusable water container and fill it on the spot, don't buy water in disposable plastic bottles. More of the parking lot is now paved, that means less mud, easier parking, and less dirty runoff that improves water quality downstream. Lots of new gear in the rental shop, including new ski and snowboard equipment. $55,000 worth of new ski and snowboard gear assures you of the best rental gear, right on the mountain. In addition, you can now rent jackets and pants right in the sport shop in the main Lodge Tilt, the beginner terrain park has been expanded, and will include more "less intimidating" jumps berms and rails. This type of improvement is why Monarch is known throughout the west as a family friendly resort. Perhaps most exciting, Monarch spend over $100,000 on research and habitat studies in order to expand into the No Name bowl area. This is a longer term project, but is a very exciting development for skiers that want a more alpine ski experience. Other interesting improvements: - New wastewater lab equipment to monitor runoff from the mountain.
- A new deck for the Children's Center, a staging place for kids lessons.
- Some of the more popular runs have been clean up a bit, with some trees being removed. The trees that were cut down, will be used to make more natural features for the K2 Organic (that is the tree part) terrain park.
- The lesson and rental center has a new more energy efficient entryway.
- New and improved boot dryers in the rental shop, making sure your rental boots are warm and dry every morning.
- A new weather station at the top of Mirkwood bowl. This will help the Ski Patrol with forecasting and avalanche control.
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