Shawnee Mountain is thinking “green” this winter, installing more efficient snow guns and instituting a Recycling Program throughout the resort. 10 new electric Fan Snow Guns have been installed on the Little Chief Beginners Area and in the Learning Center. These tower-mounted, oscillating guns generate lots of snow without the need for compressed air, which traditionally is piped in via diesel-powered compressors. Shawnee Mountain estimates that the new guns will result in 67,000 less gallons of diesel fuel being burned this winter.

In an effort to reduce Shawnee’s waste products by 4 to 7 tons annually, the Pennsylvania ski area has set up a Recycling Program that will recycle glass, paper, aluminum, and cardboards waste. Shawnee is also looking at the possibility of installing wind turbines directly on the peak of Shawnee Mountain to generate electricity. A study is currently being conducted in collaboration with the Saint Francis University Renewable Energy Center.

The Terrain Parks at Shawnee will have new snow features this winter, along with more innovative rails and improved jump lines. Shawnee has also purchased 500 pairs of new Elan shaped skis, 150 new Rossignol snowboards, and 200 pairs of Dalbello ski boots. The rental facility at Shawnee is capable of outfitting 4,000 skiers and riders.