Leisure Services Board Hosts Hogadon Safety Forum [VIDEO]

In a meeting room filled to capacity, the city of Casper's Leisure Services Advisory Board held the first of two public forums to discuss safety at Hogadon Ski Area.

From six to seven-thirty Tuesday evening at the Recreation Center, Casper residents had the opportunity to learn about Hogadon's current safety protocol and make suggestions on how to improve those existing standards.

Hogadon currently operates within guidelines established by the National Ski Area Association and is considered by many to be a safe place.

Yet, Last Christmas Eve's fatal collision sparked the need to hold an open discussion where concerned citizens could voice their opinions and suggestions to improve conditions at Hogadon.

Some suggestions included: adding snow fence mazes at the end of runs to force people to slow down, putting up surveillance cameras, having a zero tolerance policy for smoking and poor etiquette, and providing additional education for skiers and snowboarders.

One topic that seemed to have unanimous support was the need for more personnel on the slopes.

Though some topics sparked controversy, the discussion ended on a positive note with snow sport enthusiasts praising the ski patrol and Hogadon management and recognizing their love for the mountain.