Wasatch Backcountry Alliance Press Release 2014

Backcountry Enthusiasts Organize to Form Wasatch Backcountry Alliance

New grassroots group attracts 1,000+ members focused on protecting a balanced Wasatch recreational experience for all

MARCH 6, 2014 – SALT LAKE CITY – A diverse group of Utah residents, many of whom came together through the Stop SkiLinkand Friends of Flagstaff initiatives, has organized to form Wasatch Backcountry Alliance, a new grassroots organization focused on being the recognized voice and advocate for the backcountry community involved n human-powered winter recreation in the Central Wasatch Mountains. Wasatch Backcountry Alliance has signed up more than 1,000 members since organizing in the Fall of 2013.

After quietly launching a website, and Facebook page in September, the group’s popularity grew online, achieving more than 1,600 Facebook fans, and over 1,000 registered members to date. Aligned with its mission to provide a voice for its members, Wasatch Backcountry Alliance is also participating in Mountain Accord project focused on decision-making for the Central Wasatch Mountains.

Another Wasatch Backcountry Alliance project underway is the planning to conduct an intensive two-phase research study designed to accurately count the number of winter backcountry users in the area, as well as estimate the economic impact of backcountry users to the region.

The Central Wasatch Mountains are truly unique in the world class opportunities they offer for both resort skiing and undeveloped backcountry activities.  The key here is balance and it’s vital that people who love the backcountry have a voice and can be represented through Wasatch Backcountry Alliance, as the planning and management for these lands is always under discussion

Mark Menlove, former president of Ski Utah and current Executive Director of Winter Wildlands Alliance

One of the lessons we’ve learned as former members of Stop SkiLink and Friends of Flagstaff groups, is that there is power in organizing, and coming together with a unified message, and taking action. We believe Wasatch Backcountry Alliance will continue to grow, and be a positive voice for preserving these amazing mountains we have in our backyards. And perhaps most importantly, we hope to help preserve these mountains so everyone can enjoy the scenery, and backcountry experience.

Jamie Kent, Wasatch Backcountry Alliance President

First Fund-raiser: Backcountry Film Festival

Organized as a 501C3 (status pending) non-profit organization, Wasatch Backcountry Alliance is hosting its first official fund-raising event Thursday, March 6, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. showing the Backcountry Film Festival at the Santy Auditorium in Park City. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at brownpapertickets.com, or at the door. All proceeds raised will raised will benefit Wasatch Backcountry Alliance.

About Wasatch Backcountry Alliance

Wasatch Backcountry Alliance is the recognized voice for the backcountry community involved in human-powered winter recreation in the Central Wasatch Mountains. We represent a unified voice to media, partners, elected officials, and the general public. We focus on providing advocacy to support our causes, and serve as a central information venue for related topics. More information can be found at http://wasatchbackcountryalliance.org/.

MEDIA INQUIRES

Brad Rutledge

bradr@wasatchbackcountryalliance

+1-801-824-6218