SAM Magazine-Durango, Colo., Nov. 25, 2008-Winter resorts received a record 18 A grades in the Ski Area Environmental Scorecard this year, compared to 12 last year, thanks to increased efforts to reduce energy consumption, install green energy technologies and reduce greenhouse gases.

"Ski areas have accelerated their efforts to become more energy efficient," said Hunter Sykes, research director of the Ski Area Citizens Coalition, which prepares the report along with Colorado Wild and the Sierra Nevada Alliance. "It's encouraging to see improved scores and actual conservation for the environment." Energy retrofit projects, efficient snowmaking equipment, increased use of biodiesel, and purchases of renewable energy credits often led to higher grades. Protection of old growth forests, alpine wildlife and water resources, along with proactive steps such as carpool programs and recycling, also hiked scores.

Overall, 60 of the 84 western resorts surveyed received higher scores than last year. Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk in Colorado and Sundance in Utah continue to rank as the highest scoring ski resorts, though they are now followed closely by Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley in California, and Park City in Utah.

"Resorts are walking the talk when it comes to reducing global warming gases," said Patricia Hickson, land use campaign associate for the Sierra Nevada Alliance. "We love seeing this green trend. It's an indicator the ski industry is taking leadership in the effort to reduce carbon emissions."

Despite the improvement in scores, the ski industry has long criticized the criteria used by the organizations. For example, so long as expansion is possible under a resort's master plan, a ski area is docked points. Even minor development or expansion can severely lower a resort's ranking, as the Coalition views any development as a major threat to mountain environments. Of the 24 resorts whose scores stayed the same or declined, 15 are planning or have recently undertaken real estate or terrain expansions.

To view the full scorecard with each resort's score and additional details, visit wwww.skiareacitizens.com. \