Ski For Free and Contribute to Backcountry Safety

For the seventh winter in a row, TCSAR Foundation is looking for ambassadors to take surveys at the backcountry gates at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. A project of Backcountry Zero, the program consists of a half dozen ambassadors who post up at different gates throughout the winter, asking basic questions about how prepared skiers and snowboarders are before they exit the gates.

It is the oldest and most developed survey program of its kind in the United States, and helps create a baseline of data about lift-access backcountry users in Jackson Hole. For instance, through the survey we know that 80 percent of all skiers and snowboarders who exit the gates wear an avalanche beacon, and that roughly 75 percent have taken at least an Avalanche Level 1 class.

Chosen ambassadors will donate about two hours every week to taking surveys. In return, they will receive free skiing from JHMR for that day, and cool product from the program’s sponsors such as Flylow, Stio, and Kate’s Real Food.

To learn more or to apply, send an email to TCSAR Foundation PSAR Manager Liz King: liz@tetoncountysar.org.

Win Big at the WYSAW Raffle on October 23

The Wyoming Snow and Avalanche Workshop, on October 22-23, at the Center for the Arts, in Jackson, Wyo., is the ideal avenue to dust off the summer cobwebs as we head into avalanche season. With limited in-person seating at the Center, make sure you sign up today. (It will also be shown in its entirety online.)

As part of the event, we are giving away more than $20,000 worth of prizes that have been generously donated by leading winter sports brands and local businesses. We have—count ‘em—five pairs of skis, one snowboard, free skiing with Exum, as well as lift tickets to JHMR and Snow King Mountain, a bunch of backcountry safety gear and classes, outwear and accessories, and so much more.

All proceeds support TCSAR volunteers to help them be prepared and outfitted for rescues in Teton County, Wyoming. So it’s a great cause. And, you don’t need to be present to win. Just click the button below to see all the prizes and buy raffle tickets.

Thanks to all the companies who donated prizes this year, and to all of you for buying tickets!

Challenge Accepted: TCSAR New Class Reaches Milestone

TCSAR’s new class team members reached a significant milestone on their journey to becoming fully operational volunteers. This week, they received their Challenge pins, signifying that they had each completed at least 200 hours of training since coming on board in May. Like all TCSAR volunteers, they will continue to train and practice avalanche rescue, heli- and snowmobile-assisted rescues, among other winter-related challenges over the next several months. 

Photo: Brook Yeomans

For the last several months, the new class members have taken on all kinds of different trainings, taking on each one with enthusiasm and smiles. It’s a lot of time and work behind the scenes, including by the instructors KC Bess and Anthony Stevens. On November 1, the new class members will be added to page call-outs during rescues, but won’t be considered ‘operational’ until April 2022.

But this moment is worth recognizing, and giving them kudos to a job well done.

Get to know the new class by clicking the link below.