Wachusett Goes Green
Wachusett Mountain Ski Area GOES GREEN -- one of the “Greenest” mountains in the USA!
In an era when tourist attractions and ski areas across the country are just beginning to go “green,” Wachusett Mountain Ski Area has been and continues to be a leader in promoting environmentally-friendly tourism both regionally and nationally.
For more than 25 years, the ski area has made protecting the mountain’s natural resources -- while providing a valuable recreational opportunity to Massachusetts residents -- one of its primary focuses. From simple environmental protection measures to more comprehensive conservation initiatives, Wachusett’s long history of developing programs to protect the natural resources of the region has been a model for ski areas across the country and has earned numerous awards. The ski area’s commitment to environmental programs is stronger than ever.
Here’s a quick look at some of Wachusett’s green initiatives “by the numbers!”
$4.6 million The amount that Wachusett has contributed to state’s land acquisition fund since
1988 providing protection for more than 500 acres of open space in central
Massachusetts.
2,500 Gallons of cooking oil Wachusett annual converts to biodiesel to help fuel the
mountain’s five grooming vehicles.
1992 The first year Wachusett Mountain was awarded a prestigious environmental award
for its “green” initiatives. The Mountain has earned recognition at a national level for its
environmental programs at least 4 times during the past 10 years alone.
450 The number of acres Wachusett Mountain Ski Area leases for alpine
skiing/snowboarding from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation &
Recreation.
12 The number of interpretive kiosks located around the mountain explaining important
environmental and historical information about the area.
$7.75 The one-way cost to take the “Ski Train” from Boston to nearby Fitchburg where a
Wachusett shuttle will pick you up.
7.2 miles The length of the sewer line from the mountain to the Fitchburg wastewater
treatment plant which Wachusett Mountain donated to the town of Westminster in
1982.
Here is a complete summary of “green” programs at the mountain:
Environmental Policy Statement
Public Transportation
Public/Private Partnerships
Old Growth, Forrest and Open Space Protection and Management
Conservation
Environmental Events
Educational Programs
Environmental Awards
Voice Your Green Opinion: Check out these sites and see what other people are saying about the Green Initiative and tell people what you think about Wachusett Mountain’s efforts.
http://www.greenwashingindex.com
Check out what Channel 5 had to say about Wachusett Mountain’s efforts
Watch our Green Commercial |