"The environment is our asset. A beautiful and pristine mountain experience brings our guests and employees to Squaw Valley. It is our duty to make every effort to protect that experience."
-Nancy Wendt, President of Squaw Valley Ski Corp.
Energy & Water Use in Facilities
Squaw Valley has implemented technology to reduce energy use throughout its facilities in an effort to conserve energy and protect valuable natural resources.
In 2000 Squaw Valley replaced the drive in the Cable Car which resulted in the significant reduction of kilowatt hours used by the popular lift. The incineration process, used in Squaw Valley's recycling efforts, is one of the most efficient ways to dispose of solid waste and reduces the amount of garbage sent to landfills. In addition, the heat generated as a by-product of the process is used to heat the Gold Coast complex, reducing the need for fossil fuels. Hardy Herger, Squaw Valley's Technical Consultant, has designed and implemented a geothermal heat pump system at the 12,000 square foot SquawKids Children's Center facility. The heat pump system is the only one of its kind in the United States and uses the natural energy of the earth (heat stored beneath the earth's surface) to heat water, which is subsequently used to heat the entire building.
The Olympic Ice Pavilion utilizes the most technologically advanced refrigeration system of its kind. A state of the art heat exchanger freezes the ice of the Olympic Ice Pavilion while simultaneously heating the Swimming Lagoon & Spa, the surrounding decks and walkways and the interior of the High Camp Bath & Tennis Club. The Gold Coast Funitel also uses a similar heat exchange system.
Forest & Vegetative Management
Squaw Valley has created an environmental improvement department devoted to projects such as erosion control, revegetation (incorporating the use of natural grasses and wildflowers) and the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMP's) for construction projects.
Wetlands
Squaw Valley is dedicated to preserving and improving wetland areas within the resort. In 2000 staff completed an engineered wetland project encompassing over an acre surrounding the Gold Coast Pond. Shallow water areas, levees, and water-control structures were constructed in order to restore the natural hydrology of the property and improve habitat for wetland-dependent wildlife. By successfully maintaining the wetland, the Squaw Valley hopes to reduce flooding and erosion, improve water quality, and increase the population of many plants and animals.
Water Quality Management
Squaw Valley engages in substantial water quality monitoring within the watershed in order to ensure the ongoing health of the Squaw Valley ecosystem and of Squaw Creek and the Truckee River. Each summer, Squaw Valley works with the Truckee River Habitat Restoration Group to assist with efforts to restore the Truckee River Watershed and promote a healthy river system.
Transportation
Squaw Valley places a major emphasis on getting its own employees to use environmentally sensitive modes of transit to and from work. Squaw pays the bill so that all employees are entitled to ride Tahoe Area Rapid Transit to and from work each day free of charge. Squaw employees who drive their own cars to work receive incentives to carpool.
Waste Management
Squaw Valley was a 2003 Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP) winner for contribution to waste reduction efforts. Squaw Valley has instituted a comprehensive recycling program in conjunction with Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal Company including widespread recycling bins for glass, aluminum and paper and the recycling of all oil and hydraulic fluids, tires and batteries.
The Future
Squaw Valley's Technical Director, Hardy Herger is researching additional environmental improvement initiatives such as the implementation of wind and solar power on the upper mountain, which could further contribute to the goal of emissions reduction.