Snowmass raises wind tower

SNOWMASS, Colorado ” A wind tower was successfully erected at the top of Snowmass Ski Area last last week to collect data to determine if wind turbines are feasible, according to the Aspen Skiing Co.

The tower was erected on the slope above the top terminal of the Big Burn chairlift. Anemometers will measure wind speeds at 45, 55 and 65 meters. Data will be collected and evaluated over the next year. A tower collapsed and was damaged beyond repair earlier this month when a winch snapped.

The experiment is being conducted by the Skico, U.S. Forest Service and Leitner-Poma of America. The Forest Service and Skico are studying the feasibility of assembling at least three wind turbines at the top of the Burn. They could produce between 66 and 100 percent of the power needed by the Skico.