Taos Ski Valley Inc. forges new commitment to Taos Pueblo
As a mountain resort operator, our responsibilities include a wide scope of work encompassing the planning and execution of our day-to-day operations, creating and implementing guest service programs, planning and designing new on-mountain improvements and delivering on our B Corporation environmental and social responsibility goals.
But one of the most rewarding aspects of our work is developing a rewarding and meaningful relationship with the tribal government of Taos Pueblo. The bonds we’ve forged exemplify the vast cultural diversity we enjoy here in Northern New Mexico, and the many ways it enriches our businesses and lives. And the bonds are not new. We currently employ over 25 people from the Pueblo. Many of these valuable staff members have been with us for decades, and we even have multi-generation families working with us.
Over the past year alone, Taos Ski Valley has regularly met with Taos Pueblo leadership and collaborated on several projects that seek to create mutually beneficial impacts for our communities and visitors, including:
Launching the Charles N. Romero Snowsports Program to provide opportunities for Pueblo youth to enjoy the sport of skiing, free of charge. This program was named in memoriam of a longtime Taos Ski Valley employee and member of the Taos Pueblo community.
Developing a Mountain Ranger program to educate ski valley guests of the mutual respect and relationship we have with the Pueblo and the importance of not trespassing on sacred lands.
Collaborating with the Pueblo and sharing the best practices from our sister company, Blanca Forestry Products, regarding the installation and operation of a state-of-the-art sawmill. We also conducted a site visit of the Village Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Selection of Taos Ski Valley’s Vice President of Environmental/ Social Responsibility, Dawn Boulware, as a member of the newly formed Taos Pueblo Foundation nonprofit.
And most recently, we have entered a Memorandum of Understanding for Mutual Respect and Collaboration that ensures open communication and support between the Taos Pueblo and Taos Ski Valley on future initiatives. These will include: working together with the Forest Service on cultural sensitivity, supporting programs for Pueblo youth, collaborating on clean energy and environmental stewardship, working together on the restoration of the Rio Grande Cutthroat trout population and more.
Northern New Mexico’s unique confluence of Native North American, Hispanic and European cultures results in a beautiful tapestry of ideas, traditions, beliefs and people. It is critical that we continue to seek collaborative efforts with our neighbors to ensure benefit for all.
We hold our relationship with the Taos Pueblo in the highest regard and have a deep appreciation for its history, influence and value. It is with reverence that we deepen our relationship with the Pueblo. My sincerest thanks go to Gov. Romero and his staff, War Chief Romero and his staff and all of our friends at the Taos Pueblo.