Forest Service approves parts of Eldora expansion plan

NEDERLAND, Colo. (AP) – The U.S. Forest Service has approved parts of the Eldora Mountain ski area expansion, limiting the changes to the area’s existing boundaries.

The Daily Camera reports (http://bit.ly/1GmKv8k ) that the Forest Service announced Thursday that developers will be able to move forward with improvements within their existing permit boundary. Those plans include replacing lifts, adding gladed terrain and new runs, improving snowmaking, and building and renovating restaurant facilities.

The Forest Service will wait to decide about plans outside the existing boundaries, which have been criticized by environmental activists.

Eldora management has proposed to expand its boundaries by about 70 acres north and 18 acres south. Critics say they fear potential damage to the riparian environment and associated wildlife corridor along Middle Boulder Creek that could result from expansion.