Page 2 - SVHS Ops Plan 2017_18

1. INTRODUCTION
Sun Valley Helicopter Ski Guides, LLC. (SVHS), an Idaho Limited Liability Company, has operated a helicopter skiing service in and around Sun Valley, specifically the Sawtooth National Forest, under a Special Use Permit from the United States Forest Service since 1976. SVHS is one of the nation’s pioneers in the heli-ski industry. Every season between 300-1000 skiers visit the breathtaking Pioneer, Boulder, and Smoky Mountain Ranges and experience some of the finest untracked skiing in the world.
Over the years, SVHS has been fortunate enough to have an excellent safety record by being conservative in its approach. However, it must be realized that flying and skiing in remote mountain terrain under varying weather and snow conditions are dangerous activities. Accidents that are beyond anyone’s control will happen. Guests must recognize the potential of injury or death and assume the responsibility of the negative consequences of helicopter skiing by signing an assumption of risk form, following the guide’s instructions, having respect for the capricious mountain environment, and behaving responsibly.
The goal of the operation plan is to outline a program that will provide a rewarding experience to the public while reducing the exposure to foreseeable hazards and preparing the response to emergency situations.
The purpose of this plan is primarily for the USFS permit process. It may not be copied without permission.
USFS documents written during 2001, specifically “Environmental Assessment” and “Decision Notice and Finding of No Significant Impact”, identified issues and concerns of the general public and wildlife biologists from the USFS, Idaho Fish and Game, and US Fish and Wildlife Service. These documents specified several mitigation measures that address the identified issues and concerns. These mitigation measures are a part of the Special Use Permit and the SVHS Operation Plan.
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P.O Box 978 Sun Valley, ID 83353
Phone: 208.622.3108 E: info@sunvalleyheliski.com W: sunvalleyheliski.com