Editor’s note: this is the fifth edition of Nils Ericksen’s Idea File. Its success depends on you, our readers, sharing your ideas with us. Just drop us a line at SAM, Box 242, North Salem, N.Y. 10560. Make it a brief description plus snapshot or very rough sketch if needed. We’ll do the rest. You and your area get recognized, and you get $10 for your interest if we use your idea. All ‘ideas’ involve custom fabrication for each situation, and no liability can be assumed by contributors, the editor or this magazine.
Clothes Racks
“Ace Wilcox of Peek’n Mt. in Pennsylvania likes his multi-use racks for clothes and stuff. Besides being a very attractive addition to his base lodge, the racks, when lined up edge to edge, form excellent room dividers and can still be used for parka and boot stowage. Stain the frame to complement the panelling and you’re all set. Keep the leg profile low to avoid tripping possibilities.
Ski Corral
Our thanks to Bill Keil of Portland, Oregon for this one. To fight the stolen skis problem, Mt. Bachelor in central Oregon has installed a “Ski Corral”—a staked-off area with a pretty guard at the gate. When skiers go into the day lodge, they simply stick their skis in the corral. No claim checks are given and the service is free. When they return for their equipment, they put on their skis, with the guard observing. If the bindings fit their boots, OK. The premise is that a ski thief is not likely to find a pair of skis which fit his boots. Mt. Bachelor assumes no responsibility if he does. “Skiers like the system,” says Bill.
Circuit Tester
This idea has got to take first prize. The credit goes to George Boozel at Peek n’ Peak. George has solved one of the most perplexing problems to face operators on a continuing basis: how to find a faulty tower safety circuit. Technically, the standard outlet fitted to the tower is wired in parallel with the safety circuit. When plugged in, the lamp will light only if the circuit is open on the tower. Make up enough test plugs for responsible personnel (don’t forget Ski Patrol). Make sure to match the lamp to existing circuit voltage i.e. 24, 48, etc. AC or DC.
Snow Gates
Have a severe wind problem on a narrow trail? Perhaps this set of modified farm gates will help trap the errant snow. You can either build your own or buy them from your local farm store. They are closed by the ski patrol during “sweep” or after trail grooming.
