Californian Resorts Donate $400,000 To Fire-Impacted Employees

The ski resorts of Heavenly and Kirkwood that were in the frontline in the nettle to contain the vast Caldor fire that has been ravaging forests around Lake Tahoe in California have announced that they have survived the flames relatively unscathed.

The fire continues to burn and remains a threat but is now 76% contained the two resorts are reporting “minimal growth” in their areas. Both were on the front lines of the battle with the flames for much of September with Heavenly’s huge base car park used as a temporary control base for thousands of fire fighters.

In a statement the two resorts, both owned by Vail Resorts, said,

”We are grateful to share we have not found any direct fire damage to critical infrastructure at this time. Thanks to the hard work and tremendous efforts of those on the ground, the resort’s winter downhill trails and features, resort lodges, equipment, chairlifts, and the Heavenly Tram and gondola all remain intact. We expect to open for the upcoming winter season on our scheduled date of Friday, Nov. 19, should snow conditions permit.”

“The impacts of the Caldor Fire on the wider community are not lost on us. We extend our support to the greater Tahoe region, the many areas and neighborhoods that have been impacted, and all of those who have been affected during this challenging time.  Our number one priority continues to be the safety and wellbeing of our employees. We are continuing to provide resources through the Vail Resorts EpicPromise Employee Foundation including shelter, food and other critical needs. In the past two weeks, more than $400,000 in direct grants from the foundation has supported our employees displaced by the Caldor Fire.”

“As always, we share our deepest appreciation to the brave leaders, first responders, and many teams who have given their all to the firefighting efforts during the last few weeks.”