AUBURN, Maine — On Sunday, the sound of chain saws buzzing was music to the ears of Lost Valley Ski Resort lovers. Earlier this year, owners couldn’t even imagine preparing for the ski season.
“We didn’t think we were going to get open and we had come to the conclusion that we just weren’t going to be able to do it,” said Lost Valley co-owner, Connie King.
But when there’s a will there’s a way. A group called The Friends of Lost Valley sprang into action and raised $25,000 to keep the 50-year-old mountain in Auburn from shutting down for good.
“It’s amazing. it feels absolutely wonderful,” said King.
Support appears to be growing. Nearly 100 volunteers spent the day clearing brush and working to get the mountain ready.
John Herrick skis Lost Valley regularly. He brought his entire family to help on Sunday including his two daughters who are on a ski team.
“When we heard they weren’t going to open we were kind of upset. My daughter actually cried,” Herrick said.
“I’ve made awesome memories and friends here. It’s just, it was pretty sad, but now it’s open it’s great!” Samantha Herrick said.
They and others have decided to pitch in to make sure more memories can be made.
The resort’s owners are saying costs always will be a concern, but they have a plan. They’re installing more energy-efficient lights and snow guns, and they’re keeping their fingers crossed for a lot of snow.
That’s how owners are hoping to make it and open the following season with no bumps on the slopes.
“There’s a lot of little things that we’re doing that’s going to show in the end that will make big differences,” said King.
If the weather cooperates Lost Valley should be open for business by the middle of December.