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SAM Magazine-Waterville Valley, N.H., Oct. 19, 2010-Less than a week after taking over, the new owners of Waterville Valley are buying 25 energy-efficient HKD tower guns and a new Prinoth Bison groomer. Total investment in the six weeks leading up to the area's planned Nov. 20 opening will hit $500,000.

"We completed the purchase of Waterville Valley on October 13 and are now going as fast as we can to make improvements before the start of the ski season," said GM Bob Fries. "The increased snowmaking capacity will help Waterville Valley leverage its 4,000-foot elevation, allowing us to open a greater variety of terrain for Thanksgiving and early December."

The area is also expanding its restroom facilities and giving a new look to the food service area and menu.

Waterville Valley will be adding to its ski and snowboard rental inventory, too, including new mini Burton snowboards for kids. "Each season, parents seem to want their kids to start skiing and snowboarding at younger ages," said snowsports director Peter Weber. "In response, we're always looking for innovations in kids equipment that will let them start young but still have a blast. "The new [Burton] design makes it easier for kids to roll from edge to edge and actually build skills on their very first days on snow. Waterville Valley already has mini skis, so now parents and kids will have a choice."

To make sure the new rental gear gets ample use, Waterville is offering a $35 Learn to Ski Package, for ages 7 and up. It includes a lower mountain lift ticket, ski or snowboard rentals, and a two-hour first-time lesson.