Rep. Blake Moore introduces SHRED Act to keep ski fees local

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT) has joined forces with Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO) to introduce the bipartisan Ski Hill Resources for Economic Development (SHRED) Act, which Moore said is aimed at ensuring ski permit fees paid to the U.S. Forest Service remain in local communities. A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) and Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO).

Currently, 124 ski areas operating on National Forest lands contribute over $40 million annually in fees to the Forest Service. The SHRED Act would allow a portion of these fees to stay in local National Forests, funding recreation improvements, trail maintenance, wildfire mitigation, and permit administration.

“Utah is known for having the Greatest Snow on Earth, and skiing is a critical component of our local economy,” Moore said. “By allowing the annual fees paid by ski areas to be used for maintenance and improvements, we can ensure these funds directly benefit Utah and other western states.”

The legislation would establish a Ski Area Fee Retention Account, ensuring that:

• 80% of ski fees stay in local National Forests for trail maintenance, permit processing, and recreation infrastructure.
• 75% of retained funds support ski area operations, visitor services, and wildfire preparedness.
• 25% of retained funds address year-round recreation needs, including search and rescue, trailhead improvements, workforce housing, and habitat restoration.

Ski industry leaders and outdoor recreation groups have voiced strong support for the bill. The National Ski Areas Association, Ski Utah, and resorts including Brighton, Alta, Snowbasin, Solitude, Vail Resorts, and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort have all endorsed the SHRED Act.

“The SHRED Act ensures revenue generated by Colorado’s world-renowned ski areas stays in these rural and mountain communities,” said Neguse, emphasizing its role in supporting outdoor recreation economies.

If passed, the SHRED Act would direct critical funding back to National Forests facing increasing visitor demand while reducing reliance on congressional appropriations. The bill has bipartisan backing and broad industry support, increasing its chances of advancing through Congress.