SAM Magazine-Highmount, N.Y., Oct. 2, 2008-In the wake of budget cuts by New York State agencies, state-operated Belleayre Mountain Ski Center will restrict lift and snowmaking operations for the 2008-09 ski and snowboard season. However, all programming will remain available, including "Kidscamp," racing programs, and new this year, the adaptive ski program.

The ski resort will continue to operate seven days per week, from Nov. 28 through March 2009, but officials at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) confirmed on Wednesday that lift and snowmaking operations will be restricted this winter. Belleayre will run six lifts this winter; two lesser-used lifts that are adjacent to other, more highly-used lifts will be closed-a change that will have a limited impact on uphill lift capacity. Similarly, while snowmaking and grooming on most of the mountain will be unchanged, several of the less frequently used trails will be open this winter on a natural cover basis only. Use of the halfpipe also will be weather dependent.

In addition, advertising will be reduced, and other operational and administrative efficiencies achieved, officials indicate. Most season ticket prices will remain the same as last year, but daily lift ticket fees will increase slightly to offset higher fuel and other operational costs.

New York State is minimizing the impact of statewide budget cuts in part to support the local economy. "The communities throughout the Route 28 Corridor have made their voices loud and clear on the importance of the Belleayre Ski Center to the local economy," said New York State Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, who represents Ulster and Dutchess Counties.

Added U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, "It would be a severe blow to the region should the ski center not operate for a complete season. While I recognize New York State is facing a difficult economic climate, and I applaud efforts to find savings, the benefits that would be achieved by cutting operating costs at Belleayre Mountain would pale in comparison to the economic turmoil it would create in the region." \

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