The United States Forest Service has approved clearing of old slopes and trails.
Thursday, October 27, 2016, NewEnglandSkiIndustry.com
In a final decision letter issued today, the United States Forest Service approved the South of Route 9 Integrated Resource Project, paving the way for new backcountry ski opportunities in the Green Mountain National Forest.
As part of the project, an "83-acre portion of the former Dutch Hill ski area in Readsboro will be managed for year-round recreation opportunities." Located just north of the Massachusetts border in Heartwellville, Dutch Hill closed in 1985 after four decades of operation. The T-Bar-served ski area was noted for its unique, steep trails. The lifts and ski area buildings are no longer standing.
According to the final project decision, an "open area will be predominantly located around the old trails named Dutch Meadow, Meadow
Extension, Connector, and Yankee Doodle, and the upper part of Dyke; these trail areas will be widened. The opening will allow for tubing, sledding and skiing on the lower portion of Dutch Hill, and
backcountry/cross country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking on the old ski trails."
In addition, "maintenance of backcountry ski lines may be conducted by an interested partner group or volunteers. The opening will connect with another opening proposed to be created to the south of the ski area summit (Compartment 120, Stand 21) to enhance the existing vista at that location."
When reached for comment, the Green Mountain National Forest did not respond to questions about who will be authorized to clear the trails or when.
