User:Henitsirk/sandbox

Mountain Rider's Alliance is a ski area development company founded in 2010 by Jamie Schectman, Dave Scanlan, and Shanie Mathews. MRA's stated mission is "to develop values-based, environmentally-friendly, rider-centric mountain playgrounds that encourage minimal carbon footprint business practices as well as alternative energy creation, while making a positive impact in the local community". Their focus is "minimal infrastructure, big on mountain."

Partnerships
MRA and sustainable ski maker Skilogik have created a limited edition custom graphic ski design in all of Skilogik's models. A percentage of the proceeds will go to the Native American Olympic Team Foundation (NAOTF), founded in 1996 by Suzy Chaffee. For each purchase, Skilogik will make a donation to plant a tree in a reclaimed rainforest preserve in Brazil.

Projects
Manitoba Mountain Ski Area Restoration Project on the Kenai Peninsula is MRA's pilot project. Pending approval by the Forest Service and State of Alaska, MRA will develop a "low-impact, co-op style resort" from a ski area that last operated with a rope tow and lodge in 1960, on the Seward Highway about 90 minutes from Anchorage. Goals of the redevelopment project are encouraging a year-round local economy centered on a "sustainable-energy-powered, values-based ski area." Plans include wind, micro-hydro, and passive solar energy production with the aim of "meeting and exceeding the goals of Alaska House Bill 306, which mandates that 50% of the State’s energy be provided by renewable energy by 2025". The front side of the ski area will offer three lifts to beginner and intermediate runs with adjacent world-class backcountry areas. The project plan also includes a Nordic trail system. Backcountry access will include "committed, steep lines off the north and south sides of the ridge... [and] the high-stake spines and sinuous couloirs that Alaska is famous for".

Mount_Abram