The Vail Gore Creek Petition & The Bigger Picture

Jun 16

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Learn why you may want to consider following and supporting the Vail Gore Creek Petition in this article describing the bigger picture of Restored Lands' efforts and the issue at hand.

The Problem

Vail Resorts Epic Promise in question — *the Epic Promise is Vail Resorts' commitment to sustainability*

Vail Resorts draws millions of visitors each year, known for providing unparalleled skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The company prides themselves on their environmental stewardship, boasting action plans for a net zero operating impact on wildlife as part of their company mission. However, numerous environmental disasters on behalf of the Vail Corp. have contradicted this commitment, reflecting an ongoing deficiency in recreation standards across the country.

In 2021, the resort discharged 2 million gallons of snowmaking water contaminated with toxic chemicals into nearby Mill and Gore Creek, gravely harming the state-protected ecosystem. When the $617,000 Ford Park restoration project (set to begin summer 2025) was put in place to try and reverse the harm that was done to Gore Creek, Vail agreed to shoulder less than half of the cost –– $249,000.

To hold Vail accountable, it is everyone’s responsibility to take collective action. Why? These unfulfilled promises not only have impacts on the already-changing environment, but affect the broader economy, public health, and societal expectations of corporations. Restored Lands’ Vail Gore Creek Petition seeks to hold Vail Resorts to a higher standard, and, by extension, businesses across the country that look to Vail as a leader in their industry.

Economic Impacts

Colorado River map — *map of the Colorado River*

Along with jeopardizing the ecosystem, incidents like the Gore Creek spill could threaten economic stability. Gore Creek belongs to the Upper Basin of the Colorado River—the 5th-largest river in the United States—which 4 states depend upon for their water supply. In total, the basin supports a $1.4 trillion annual economy, making it one of the most vital waterways in the world.

colorado river western slope CO restored lands nonprofit — *Colorado River in Palisade, CO*

colorado river arizona — *the Colorado runs far – Vermillion Cliffs, AZ*

Contributing to that revenue, Gore Creek is one of few waters in the state where fisherman can find four species of trout, (rainbow, brook, brown & cutthroat) making the area a popular destination for businesses like fishing guide outfitters –– some that have been in operation for decades. In the 2021 spill, 120 fish were killed, along with aquatic insects and algae –– severely altering the microbiome of the stream. Relying on the health of the stream to attract clients, businesses could face a loss in revenue if these environmental accidents continue. Not to mention, potential impacts to the rafting industry if water quality becomes too unsafe. This doesn't just apply to Gore Creek, as the resort has tightened protections since the spill, this has a better chance happening somewhere it hasn't yet already.

Colorado Fly fishing restored lands nonprofit — *fly fishing for trout near healthy Gold Medal Waters*

GoPro Games Vail CO Gore Creek Pollution — *GoPro Games in Vail's Gore Creek*

With tourism and outdoor recreation accounting for 50% of Eagle County’s $181 million in annual revenue, these accidents are not something the community can afford long-term. Similarly, if the Vail Corporation as a whole doesn’t show a stronger commitment to clean rivers and streams, outputs of harmful chemicals or other hazards could affect communities along the Colorado River Basin or around other Vail properties, impacting industries and economies miles away from the initial site of pollution.

In recent years, accelerating temperatures associated with climate change have caused serious droughts, shrinking the water levels of the Colorado River. With the already-limited water supply being so vital to so many people, it is imperative that Vail recognizes their mistakes—even if it's just a local incident—and takes proactive, genuine responsibility for rehabilitating a habitat essential to both Colorado and the greater United States.

lake Powell low water levels restored lands nonprofit — *Historically low water levels in Lake Powell, UT (photographed early 2020's). Where the Colorado River eventually meets before making its way through the Grand Canyon and to Lake Mead, NV.*

Health Risks

Beyond the economic impacts, Vail Resorts' ongoing environmental disturbances can pose a health risk to surrounding property owners, tourists, and wildlife, echoing a disturbing pattern among recreation conglomerates.

The algaecides released in the Gore Creek spill mixed with potable drinking & recreating water in the Vail area, caused brief uncertainty in regards to the water’s safety for use. Gore Creek feeds into the Eagle River Watershed, which is responsible for the potable water of 6 different towns. If events like this continue to occur, the water quality of more communities than just Vail could be impacted. And this wasn’t the first time Vail Resort's actions resulted in a public health concern. During an expansion project in Beaver Creek just one month prior, sanitary waste and pollution from construction materials were discharged into McCoy Creek, prompting a state investigation which noted 11 different instances of improper stormwater management. With millions of visitors from around the world, the resort’s sanitation standards affect more than just local residents and should be properly maintained.

On a national scale, other iconic recreation destinations have faced similar incidents, underlining the need for a widespread reevaluation of standards for corporations and businesses. Sewage leaks on behalf of resorts in both Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington have resulted in serious health scares from contaminated water sources, triggering legal investigations and demands from the public for increased corporate transparency.

snake river restored lands nonprofit — *Snake River in Afton, WY. Fish Creek: the headwater to this waterway and is said to possibly be contaminated form the WY glamping resort.*

The Gore Creek spill is one event in a long line of resort-caused environmental damages, and it is clear that this is a symptom of a much larger problem facing several other travel destinations. Signing the Vail Gore Creek Petition is one step closer to a better, more sustainable future where all companies who offer outdoor immersion also promise outdoor respect, regardless of what state or country they're in.

The Vail Gore Creek Petition

Vail Gore Creek Petition restored lands nonprofit — *Vail Gore Creek Petition*

Here at Restored Lands, we are advocating for the voices of concerned citizens to be shared, and to show Vail Resorts that we expect them to keep their 'epic' promises. Whether you are a Vail local, an out-of-state environmentalist, a business owner, or want more transparency from your own locality, you can make progress in the fight for fairer standards. This is what the Vail Gore Creek Petition seeks to accomplish.

Vail’s underwhelming contribution to the restoration project contradicts a pillar of their company promise: giving back to the community. We are calling on Vail Resort to explain to the taxpayers of Eagle County & people of Colorado why they couldn’t shoulder more of the cost of the Ford Park restoration, pledge to be financially responsible for any future environmental hazards they cause, as well as address the Epic Promise's shortcomings while rebuilding trust with locals & those concerned. While Vail is a treasured destination to many, they must still be held to a standard that respects the Town of Vail, the people of Eagle County, and Mother Earth.

Future Implications

The Vail Gore Creek Petition would communicate to Vail Resorts that, while they have shown interest in being a friend to their surrounding community, more work needs to be done. With the proper motivation, the company would have the incentive to reconnect with community members and distinguish themselves as true environmental stewards.

Furthermore, this petition brings attention to the harmful practices that have happened at other Vail owned properties across the United States. While Vail is responsible for their actions at their resorts, they are one of the leading ski resort companies in the world, and set a standard for other corporations and industry operators. Raising awareness about Gore Creek and sharing public disapproval of irresponsible management sends a message that proper treatment of the environment and the people who live there is a undisputed priority.

vail gore creek petition qr code — *sign the Vail Gore Creek Petition!*

Sign the Vail Gore Creek Petition today, and take the first step in reaching an equitable outcome that centers the environment, people, and the outdoor opportunities that so many people hold dear.

Written by: Flannery Streiff

Edited by: Henry C. Passerini

Photos by: Restored Lands Nonprofit

Flannery Streiff is a writer and youth program developer for Restored Lands. Originally from Boise, Idaho, and currently based in Michigan pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies and Energy Science from the University of Michigan! Growing up in Idaho, Flannery gained a deep appreciation for all that the outdoors has to offer, which is what brought her to pursue a career in sustainability.