2023 Initiative to Purchase New Snow Guns

Photo Credit: Weston Ski Track Facebook page

THANK YOU… we reached our fundraising goal!

The FOLJMS community generously contributed over $20,000 during our January, 2023 fundraising drive, which enabled the organization to receive a matching government grant. FOLJMS is currently working with the DCR to purchase the new snow guns and will share an update when this step is complete.

It takes powerful equipment to create snow at the Weston Ski Track (WST), especially during seasons with low natural snow fall. Two of the largest snow guns have reached “end-of-life” status and we urgently need to purchase replacements. This new equipment will bolster snow-making capabilities at the WST, allow snow to cover a greater amount of terrain and maximize the capacity of the new pump that was purchased by FOLJMS in January of 2021.

New snow guns will also allow the WST to increase the minimum depth on the course, which is critical to ensure the track can still be used and enjoyed when there are warm spells during the winter season. Specialized capabilities are also needed to make snow on elevated portions of the track, such as Mt. FOLJMS, which is a source of enjoyment for many users while also providing the elevation needed for competitive training.

To obtain the funds necessary to purchase two new snow guns, FOLJMS applied to DCR for a grant, and was awarded a portion of the funding needed. This grant money could only be utilized if FOLJMS was able to successfully raise $20,000 from the community. Fortunately, a generous donor pledged to match community donations dollar-for-dollar during our January, 2023 fundraising drive, which turned the $10,000 donated by the rest of the community into $20,000!

With this 2-for-1 match, we reached our goal to unlock the matching government grant. Thank you for helping us double your impact!

Photo Credit: Weston Ski Track Facebook page