The Beginning of a New Era at Pajarito Mountain

THE LITTLE BIRD GETS BIG WINS:
For decades, this mountain has run on hope and snowfall. Not anymore. A new water pipeline, a 10-million-gallon reservoir, and a rebuilt Aspen lift are turning Pajarito into a brand-new experience.

>>Click here to see the background on the Jemez Mountain Fire Suppression Project

• The JMFSP will provide critical water supply for wildland fire suppression for areas west of Los Alamos, the site of multiple fires in recent years.
  
• The project also provides water for winter snowmaking at Pajarito Ski Area that will ensure predictable and consistent snowmaking on the ski slopes and potable water for the lodge and base area.
  
• The project is a partnership between Los Alamos County, Pajarito Ski Area, and the state of New Mexico.
  
• Water will be delivered to the ski area via a buried pipeline along the Camp May County road and stored in an existing 10-million gallon reservoir at the top of the ski area.
  
• With this new source of water, available from November 1^st to March 15^th each year, Pajarito will transform its winter operations from relying on rainfall and runoff for water to guaranteed water flow for snowmaking. Pre-season snowmaking will occur each year as soon as temperatures allow.
  
• This season Pajarito will make snow as soon as the project is completed, which is projected to be in November. For every season thereafter, the reservoir will be kept full year-round providing a source of water for fire suppression operations and early-season snowmaking.
  
• With a predictable source of water, ski seasons at Pajarito will become more consistent with earlier opening and longer ski seasons.
  
• Pajarito has already started a multi-year capital investment program, which will include snowmaking on additional ski trails, facility improvements, and lift infrastructure.
  
• With a super El Niño in the forecast and new snowmaking, Pajarito is anticipating a very successful ski season and a bright future for many years in the future.