Q&A with Skeetawk general manager discussing coming season

WASILLA— Skeetawk general manager, Scott Patridge recently participated in a question and answer interview to discuss their recent efforts and the coming season.

What have you been up to?“This summer, we had some projects onsite. We did some trail clearing and some other things, building a rental ship underneath the yurt. We added some components to eventually get food service going at some point. We’re going to start off with some basic concession/snack type stuff, and then gradually increase our services throughout the year… We’re just waiting on snow to open.”

When are you going to open?“As soon as we can get 12 to 16 inches of snow. As soon as we can get a good base, then we’ll get the lift running and we’ll be able to get people skiing and snowboarding. We always hope to be open before now, but we just need a little bit more snow.”

How does it feel to be at this point to have this longtime dream come to life?“I think for everyone in the community, they’re just excited about it. I hear from people all the time that they’ve been waiting for this for years and they’re excited to drive 20 minutes down the road and have their own local ski hill.”

What are some of your goals moving forward?“I think one of the big things on our upcoming list will be snowmaking next season. We’re a nonprofit and we’re writing grants and were asking for donations. It’s going to take quite a bit of resources. So, snowmaking, prepping for the arctic winter games adding more infrastructure to the area.”

What do you think about the progress you’ve all made?“I think it’s doing great for a small community and volunteer-driven organization. Everyone’s working hard to make things happen, and we’re definitely thrilled about where it is and where it’s going.”

Anything else you want to say?“Do your snow dances. Pray for snow. We need it,” he said with a laugh.

For more information, visit skeetawk.com.