Some of the many comments received from Survey #1 January 15 - 23, 2011.

These comments, which were an option for response, are from throughout Manitoba and parts of Canada.

As we are still compiling the comments from the 7 days of response there may be some repetition.

"What is your personal motivation to see Agassiz Ski Area redeveloped - or not redeveloped? Please include whether you had the opportunity to visit Agassiz Ski Area in it's operation period."

The place I learned to ski and also where both my daughters learned as well. It is the best "big" hill that is convenient for my family.

Without Agassiz our home mountain has become Banff and Whistler so our vacation money is being spent out of province.

I have never had the chance to visit the ski area. I have cross country skied but not downhill (would like to learn). I have actively followed the updates within skiagassiz.com

What appeals to me the most is year round activities, hiking, and biking.

I found it very hard to answer the surveys questions because I have no clue what Agassiz going to look like or offer. I think a proposed idea for property development would push this project in the right direction.

I learned to ski at Agassiz. There is no other hill like it between Thunder Bay and the Rockies.

It was a very important Manitoba tourist attraction.

It needs to be reopened.

Approximately 30 years ago my big brother took a friend and I to Agassiz ski hill and introduced us to a great winter sport. I am now 46 and have been a snowboarding instructor for the past 6 years. Realizing first hand how important such sports are to our youth and the personal confidence it can bring to them which spills over into other facets of their lives.

Having such a resource close to Winnipeg can make a difference to so many as it has with me and my crew.

I have been to Agassiz in the past and enjoyed it a lot. However, it needed better maintenance, removal of long grasses and snowmaking. I believe this place with a terrain park, half pipe, would bring a lot of people to the ski area.

I am responding to the survey, and had to answer the questions above; even though it is unlikely I would ever ski there unless I happened to be back in Manitoba for a winter vacation. I now live on Vancouver Island and seldom visit Manitoba in the winter.I used to live at Onanole and before that Brandon and went to Agassiz many times every season. It is (was) a great hill. I would be great to see it in operation again for all those who love skiing and other outdoor activities.

I have skied at all ski locations in Southern Manitoba and it is by far (and I can't emphasize that enough) the best.

I was one of the first set of kids who started skiing at Agassiz and skied there for many years. Our family was always interested in this location as my father worked on the buildings in the beginning and worked on the tow rope later my brother worked at the top unload and we would ski and toboggan almost every weekend. This re-opening would be of great value to RM Park as well as the surrounding area there are so many sport and hiking trails that could be developed.

It would be nice to have the alpine skiing and also skijoring trails. My family does both sports, and while the boys downhill ski, I could take the dogs off for an afternoon on the trails.

I would love to see the area re-developed.

I skied there about 10-12 days per year from 1990-1995 and loved every minute of it! Great terrain and the best vertical in the area. Loved how close it was, too. I enjoy going to (other) these days, but it's too far of a drive from Brandon, so I usually go to (other) instead. If Agassiz were re-developed, I would definitely go there every chance I get!

I have skied and snowboarded and mountain biked and tobogganed at Agassiz for many years between 1993-1999. Whether I drove in from Winnipeg or directly from my parents home (6 miles from the hill) I always looked forward to some comradely and friendship that Agassiz offered everyday of the week.

I see Agassiz has the full opportunity and excellent potential to be economically and environmentally developed for the recreational enjoyment so that man can appreciate what is so precious to protect.

With three young children, I would like to see the redevelopment for their benefit as well as my desire to get back into skiing. It has been a scenic enjoyable ski destination in the past and I miss the opportunity to go there. Also, the economic boost for the area around McCreary and extended to the north and south communities would be welcomed.

I believe there is great potential at Agassiz and we need to get it back up and running so others can realize it.

I used to ski there all the time and had several yearly ski passes. It is a fabulous ski hill and it's a shame it is not still open.

It is still the best ski hill from the Rockies to Quebec.

Would like to see it open again. Had real good time working there. I learned how to ski and snowboard there. I always talk to my friends about the good times I had there.

If and when it opens me and my friends are going there for sure to ski and snowboard and the good times.

Being an avid skier as a youth and being involved in racing I have visited and skied Agassiz several times. Having an awesome facility like this sitting there and not in use makes no sense.

The town of McCreary would benefit and so would Neepawa. I was challenged as a skier at Agassiz and looked forward to every opportunity there was to go and visit.

I hope that Agassiz once again is as big to some kid that it once was to me.

I have great memories skiing there in high school and u of w buddies. We stayed in Dauphin and McCreary. Had a blast. Now I have a family and need an affordable exp for them like I had.

Open it up. Get real.

Was a great ski hill in it's day. I used it on the occasional basis when it was running. At the time I was located in southern Manitoba.

The park is beautiful and this would be just another activity to do there. Would love to ski with my family, but find (other) too far.

I grew up in Erickson and was at Agassiz almost every weekend in the winter during my teen years. I think it is important for teens in the area to have an excellent hill such as Agassiz to visit during the tough teenage years.

Did not get a chance to use it during its operational period. Would like to have more variety in ski areas.

May also open up some runs for biking during the summer season to increase interest in the hill? Manitoba lacks biking-specific trails and support for mountain biking.

I would like to see it redeveloped to provide the opportunity to many in the area for the chance to ski. It is a great physical sport and would benefit the economy in the area greatly. Many young people in the rural area do not have much in the way of activities.

I would love to see the Agassiz ski area redeveloped.

- it would take advantage of a natural resort area
- it would be closer to where I live so I would board more often.
- it would benefit the surrounding area economically.

I may be biased because I was a season's pass holder while it was in operation but I enjoyed the facilities at Agassiz more than those at (other). I find (other) crowded and the ski conditions to be overly icy allowing for more injuries.

If both hills were in operation I believe that both would be able to be profitable.

Agassiz is the greatest hill I have skied on in MB or SK.

It was great for beginners and advanced and I did ski on it several times in my younger days.

It has so much potential and should not be left to ruin.

My grandparents ran the concession at the hill for many years up until the day it closed. My mom grew up on the hill teaching kids how to ski. My uncle was ski patrol as well as a few other family members.

My whole family has grown up on the hill and want to see it open and will help in anyway possible.

My personal motivation to see Agassiz Ski Area redeveloped:

I had many opportunities to visit/use Agassiz Ski Area in its operation period, as I lived in the surrounding community. It was missed greatly when it was closed!

Yes, I have visited Agassiz Ski Area when it was open. It was an annual school and family trip. It is sad to think that it is not in operation any more. It's a gold mine just sitting their waiting to get discovered again. It would definitely benefit the town of McCreary, and any other town that runs on highway 5.

I hope to see in the future that Ski Agassiz gets redeveloped.

I would be an active user of Agassiz if it was opened. I had the opportunity to hike the mountain with Kelly Rose earlier this year before snow fell, and it is a travesty that it is not open.

Amazing terrain, it needs to be utilized.

Never been to Agassiz, moved from Ontario 5 years ago.

I like (other) but its just a little too far, and Agassiz has a much nice natural setting.

I usually do most of my skiing in Minnesota (Lutsen/Giants ridge).

I used to ski there all the time until it was shut down.

Best darn hill from Ontario border to the Rockies.

Doesn't even compare to (other).

Such a shame to not use the best ski hill in Manitoba.

So close to home, it's very sad. Haven't skied in over 6 yrs since it's been closed.

Just don't see the point once we were used to Agassiz to downgrade to (other) little hills. Such an awesome place if it was properly managed.

Sure hope that one day we can have Mt Agassiz back to it's prime.

The opportunity is there, unfortunate politics always stand in the way of logic.

I grew up in the parkland area and skied Agassiz several times as a kid. I have returned to the area 20 years later and I want to take my family there. We have been to (other), but I'm not fond of 'tobogganing' down a river bank.

Bring Alpine Skiing back to Manitoba!!!!

I visited it when it was still in operation and enjoyed it. It is closer to home than other ski areas in Manitoba, and was better.

I grew up in the area. Many of us would have never had the opportunity to try skiing and/or snowboarding had it now been for Agassiz. My grandparents in-law used to run the restaurant many many years ago at the lodge and it is a very important part of the reason why Riding Mnt Ntl Park was such a beautiful year round destination.

Never had the opportunity to ski at this hill, but since moving here a couple of years ago, I have heard great stories about what the community was like when the hill was still operational.

After seeing how the people in this community are so willing to come together and support one another, it amazes me that this hill was ever allowed to close. A re-opening would bring much-needed income and traffic to an area filled with great people.

Mt. Agassiz has awesome terrain and access for the public.

The potential for a first rate resort was always there and should be again. The ground work is already done-be it that it needs to be upgraded and brought back to life!

In this day and age of "recycling" why shouldn't the resort re-open? Is that not the "environmental" way to do things?

I am the driver to a group of "new generation" boarders
that are "pumped" and waiting for Agassiz to re-open.

I spent many days skiing at Agassiz when I was young. It was a great hill and much more convenient to get to from Winnipeg and even from Brandon. We have a winterized cottage just outside Riding Mountain Park so we would have a place to stay if Agassiz were to re-open, allowing us to go for both days of a weekend.

It is such a shame to have a ski area like this go unused.

It is an already existing area so the fact that it is in RMNP should not be an issue- we are not looking at opening a new one requiring the removal of large amounts of trees, etc. There is no ski hill like it- we were and in fact still are, well known for our ski hill far and wide.

My first time on ski's was on Agassiz....that's were I learned to ski...just returned home from (other) tonight....taught my 10 year old 2 months ago and now my 4 year old how to ski there....I hope I can teach my 2 year old on Agassiz...I know with the right updated, the right people and the right marketing and the right activities both winter/summer Agassiz can one day regain it's stronghold. What a shame and waste of space when u see how vibrate and alive an area can really be with proper planning...

Lets relight that flame and bring her back to life again...she's just waiting to shine again!!!!!

I never had the chance to go to Agassiz when it was operating, but I have family in McCreary and I love the area. I would really like to see the ski hill open again for people to enjoy and because it will help other local businesses in the area.

A ski hill, of decent quality closer to Winnipeg then (other).

I never visited Agassiz but my dad has said only good things about his times there.

I grew up going out there every weekend to ski. It is much closer to Wpg than (other) and much better skiing. We eventually sold our place in McCreary when there was no hope of the ski hill opening. I would love to get out there again to teach my children to ski. We had so much fun as a family with our friends.

Memories I will cherish forever.
Thank you for trying to see your vision thru.

I have not had an opportunity to ski Agassiz. I did attend the walk about in the summer (August 2010) and was very impressed with the mountain. Last season our family skied 18 days - most outside Manitoba (3x Banff/Sunshine Village). As we have family in the Dauphin area, the opening of Agassiz for skiing would likely get us out to that region more often. We would combine skiing with family visits. We typically stay in a hotel when we visit family in Dauphin. We very much enjoy (other) facilities and although they do a great job with the vertical they have, it is somewhat limited. We recently visited Blue Mountain (near Collingwood, Ont.). They have done amazing things with their ~720 foot vertical. For starters, most of their lifts are 6 packs, so you can really get your laps in. That might be optimistic for Agassiz, but something to consider.

I've been skiing at Agassiz quite a few times and to have it reopen would mean so much for the local economy. Just the jobs alone would be a big help. There are not many options for winter employment in this area and this would definitely help solve that problem.

I don't make it to Manitoba very often, but would go skiing most likely once per year if it were open.

I had gone skiing there many many times while it was open.

I love downhill skiing and I would love to see more facilities available for that in Manitoba. It also should be mentioned that only 14% of business at (other) is from Winnipeg.

I did not have the opportunity to ski Agassiz =-(

Agassiz was the first hill that I learned how to snowboard..I was lucky enough to ride with kelly rose and the California Daze team at the time..we would go almost every weekend for quite a few years. ! still remember every trail on that hill..had some good crashes there.. Since they closed the doors there I have not been anywhere else since.. Thats not true went to Falcon Lake once. We need that hill to reopen.

My kids grew up in Wpg and they all skied at Agassiz during their school years. They miss that hill operating. My husband and I now operate a business in the ski hill area and it has been devastated since the ski hill has closed.

It was a great tourist attraction for Manitoba and it is a crime to see what has happened.

Our town is dying and the young people have no reason to stay here. This is a perfect activity for our overweight population to get back into shape and in this area.

The young people have this beautiful area right out their back door and they can't use it.

How Sad!!!

I would love to ski Agassiz again. I would love to get down the slopes and into the Mountain Inn and gulp down some cold ale after-wards. Maybe a portion of the days sales can go to giving Alpine Archie a well deservedrepainting. McCreary has become a cold ghost town, and it deserves better

I grew up in McCreary MB, my parents still live there. Living only 20 minutes away, My siblings an I spent many days at Agassiz Ski Hill, and if it was re-opened there is no doubt in my mind that we would be up there every chance we got. I plan to move home to McCreary with my family, and would love to have to opportunity to teach my children to ski where I learned.

Grew up in McCreary and it was nice to have something to do in winter, and the ski hill was huge for jobs, etc in the community. Since moving to Wpg, I've met countless people who would go to McCreary for the weekend to ski, and were so disappointed to find out that the hill was closed.

I grew up in McCreary my parents still live there I used to have a season's pass there for the last 5yrs it was open and go every weekend and during the week when I wasn't in school.

Agassiz is the best terrain and vertical with the longest runs. (other) doesn't have anything on it.. There's nothing from Thunder Bay, to the Rockies that tops it.
It's really a shame what happened to it..
Location is alot closer to both Brandon and Winnipeg and everyone still makes the journey another 2hrs to go to (other) for short 15 sec runs.

I visited the site over the holidays this year and made a few runs..

Anyone who has ever been to the Agassiz Ski area knows how beautiful the place is. It is such a waste to see the beautiful land just sit there when it can provide so many opportunities to people all over Manitoba. It is sad really. This place needs to be redeveloped. Especially at a time where obesity is taking over and video gaming is the norm for children's activities.

I never had the chance to ski or board there when they were in operation. But I have been there in the past couple of years to hike, and toboggan.

I grew up in McCreary and Agassiz was a very big part of my life there. I would love to be able to go back there and ski again and hopefully do other things there as well if it could be utilized all year long. Now that I have kids I would like them to enjoy the ski hill like I enjoyed it when I was young.

I would like to see Agassiz reopen. My family used it as children, and now I would like to give the same opportunity to my kids.
Driving and hour plus to get to a ski hill is not in our budget, but if it were here, we would only have to the cost of skiing.

Fingers are crossed.

I became a skier after Agassiz closed, and it pains me to see such a wonderful opportunity continue to go to waste. I visited the site in 2010 and have seen photos of it in operation and believe that with the right financial backing and the full support of both Parks Canada and local skiers/riders this area could be brought back again. I would love to have another great ski area available in Manitoba. The longer it sits unused, the harder it will be to get it going again.

I skied at Agassiz as a teen and these are still some of my fondest memories.

Love to see the hill re-opened to revitalize the entire area from an economic perspective. I hate seeing businesses closing, people moving away etc... The hill would attract youth to the area, increase tourism, increase business for those 500KM around, and increase property values for area residents.

A year round operation would be absolutely amazing!

Challenging ski hill, great natural resource, economic dev, year round development, been there done that. Would like to see access to the hill from the north to shorten up travel time from Dauphin if possible.

I never had the chance to go to Agassiz when it was operating, but I have family in McCreary and I love the area. I would really like to see the ski hill open again for people to enjoy and because it will help other local businesses in the area.

I have skied there in the past. With the shaped skiies they have now, it would be even better then it was.

I live right across the street from Agassiz and I really wanna see it reopened. I JUST started snowboarding when I moved here and I dont like having to drive an hour every weekend to go to some hill thats not even one third as good as this one.

I grew up in McCreary and Agassiz was a very big part of my life there. I would love to be able to go back there and ski again and hopefully do other things there as well if it could be utilized all year long. Now that I have kids I would like them to enjoy the ski hill like I enjoyed it when I was young.

Great for the community, rural Manitoba in general. It is a stunningly beautiful part of the province. Developing the ski area again would encourage tourism and travel from across the province - everyone wins!

Experienced Mt.Agassiz from age 8-30. Grew up there and got to ski 2x a week at the best place in MB.

Want to ski there again and take my kids while the grandparents still live there we'll be there as much as physically possible.

I grew up in McCreary and skied at Agassiz every weekend of my childhood. Now that I'm in Winnipeg and have my own family I guarantee I would drive out at least one weekend a month in the winter.

Ski racing community needs more options. Closer to Winnipeg.

I went before and I would (will) again. Probably even buy property for a cabin.

Redevelop and make a resort. I skied Agassiz in the 80's and 90's.

I would like to see it opened as the youth of this geographical area need the opportunity to experience a variety of winter activities and physical activity. Skiing could very well turn into lifelong physical activity and not a winter sport to only be enjoyed during their childhood. (other) is too far to drive for the day and (other) is becoming increasingly busy.

This community and area would surely benefit by having the ski hill as a tourist attraction as well as a healthy living opportunity.

I would love to see Agassiz returned to its former glory! I skied there every weekend with my whole family for five years--great childhood memories! Other families should have the same opportunity. And I'd come out several times to ski on my winter holidays at home too. :)

Great for the community, rural Manitoba in general. It is a stunningly beautiful part of the province. Developing the ski area again would encourage tourism and travel from across the province - everyone wins!

I have never had the opportunity to visit Mount Agassiz when it was in operation. But I have been living in McCreary now for 10 years and watched as the town has gotten smaller and smaller and smaller since the closure of the hill.. I have two children here, 12 and 14, and they find living in this area EXTREMELY boring and we would DEFINATELY be season pass holders if the hill was ever to reopen! We would love to see this town brought back to life!!

I think it should reopen. I grew up in McCreary and did alot of skiing I also participated in alot of racing from Nancy Greene to J4, Molstar to the Mb Cup. It was lots of fun great exercise and met alot of great people

GO GO GO AGASSIZ

I went before and I would (will) again. Probably even buy property for a cabin.

I would love to see Agassiz returned to its former glory! I skied there every weekend with my whole family for five years--great childhood memories! Other families should have the same opportunity. And I'd come out several times to ski on my winter holidays at home too. :)

I became a skier after Agassiz closed, and it pains me to see such a wonderful opportunity continue to go to waste. I visited the site in 2010 and have seen photos of it in operation and believe that with the right financial backing and the full support of both Parks Canada and local skiers/riders this area could be brought back again. I would love to have another great ski area available in Manitoba. The longer it sits unused, the harder it will be to get it going again.

Personal motivation to see redeveloped includes: (1) sentimental reasons (very good memories skiing there as a child, and I would like my children to experience that too), (2) winter recreation (I believe it's an excellent ski hill with a LOT to offer beginning and intermediate skiers), and (3) economic and cultural effects (investment in local business, bragging rights of a ski hill in the prairies, brings a sense of excitement to an otherwise sleepy, rural area).

Secondly, I had the opportunity to ski at Mt. Agassiz many times from the period roughly 1992-1999 when I lived in Dauphin.

I have not had the opportunity to visit it in its operational period; however I am not from the area. I'm from Brandon. My husband however is from McCreary and grew up with both of his parents working at the ski hill for the duration it was open. His friends and him grew up skiing and miss it dearly. He has told me of stories when the restaurant he used to work at was pumping (busy) and the bars were the place to be in the PM. This is not the case anymore. He has also described great times, a beautiful club house. After hiking there many times, this is not the case any longer!!

I have several personal reasons to have the hill restored. 1. We are a young couple and I would love to have the opportunity to have my children have a ski hill so close. 2. Environmentally it is a disgrace how it is now. 3. Economically it would be great for my community! 4. With so many small towns close by it would provide an opportunity for many people who don't have the time/money to travel to other hills in MB a close recreational activity. Which for some is a great mental health benefit/release; as it can be lonely for some people away from cities. 5. Lastly, I am a Physical Education teacher who graduated from Brandon University and I take our students skiing every year (along with every other school in our division). It would be a great opportunity to have a resource like this so close. We use Riding Mountain National Park for many of our field trips and this could add to their tourism adds! (Beneficial for Riding Mountain National Park and Manitoba tourism!) It would provide students with some entertainment that didn't involve illegal activity. We have some strong athletes in our area that could make skiing their lifelong sport of interest! We (McCreary) are close to quite a few reserves (Sandy Bay, Ebb and Flow) that could greatly benefit from this. Give our community something to do and we will rise to the occasion!

Bring back the ski hill!!

Re-developed of course, and yes, I worked it and skied it...great experience

I don't think it should be redeveloped. as it will affect way to much of the natural environment.

I personally have never been to Agassiz as I was not into skiing when I was younger. But I knew many people that did enjoy going there and I feel that it should be re-developed. Now that I am older, and with kids of my own, that is a place I would like to take my family for a day of winter fun. It is close to home so that would make it much more convenient to get to.

The Parkland region is home for me and I always like to see business flourish at home.

Manitobas' winters are long and cold. We need to take advantage of the snow and slopes for exercise and fun!! This would help draw in visitors too!!

I had not visited Agassiz Ski Area when it was operational. With that being said I had not down hill nor boarded until my children had started with Mountain View School division field trips. What better reason for our schools and School Divisions to back the redevelopment of this area. With this hill not only would our School divisions have more interest in such field trips they would also save $ on transportation to further facilities. With my own family experience... We for the last several years purchased season passes for (other) for my family of 5. We have also stayed in Roblin for 2-3 weekends a winter for the soul purpose of skiing and snowboarding. This would be most beneficial to have a place so close as McCreary and still have an option to stay at a hotel just to say we got away for the weekend for such a great winter activity.

Yes, many times. We were some of the first snowboarders in Manitoba. I remember at the time there were still some resorts (early 90's) that didn't allow snowboards. Agassiz welcomed snowboarders, built snowboard parks, and held events/contests.

It is truly great terrain for Manitoba.

Lots of great memories from Agassiz.

The re-opening of the ski hill would go a long way to support local economy and show provincial support for the area.

Yes, would use it every day.

Been there hundreds of times. Love it.

I have lived in the area in the past, and my parents are back. Many of the towns in the surrounding areas are not doing well anymore as a result of the ski hill being closed. it would be a good thing for the economic development of the area as well as bringing to the forefront a wonderful part of the province that many simply do not come to anymore

I worked and snowboarded at Agassiz many years ago, and it was always a fantastic time.

It is the only option for "real" alpine skiing in the prairies short of Alberta.

We look for someplace close, affordable and safe. We need to rent skis as we haven't been able to go enough to afford to buy some. It is usually a place that is children friendly with easy to challenging runs to meet all of our interests. Ideally it needs to be within 2 1/2 - 3 hours away as sometimes it would be a day trip only.

Distance is a major consideration for me, which is why we dont do a lot of skiing at present time.

My family loves skiing and would LOVE to have the opportunity to do so where it is closer to us! The Agassiz Ski hill would be perfect for day trips, right now if we want to go somewhere decent we would need to take a room or spend half the day on the road. Being able to go out just for the day would make it a much more affordable option! Plus, this area has virtually nothing to keep the younger generation in the town, it is sad to watch them all graduate and leave.. Its now a senior community which is literally dying..

Depressing!

The terrain at Agassiz is superior to any other ski hill in Manitoba. I think the concessions would have to be upgraded if it was to open again. The concessions and lodge at (other) are probably the only thing that is better than what Agassiz had.

Even that you can't really sit there and watch people ski at (other). At Agassiz you have a great view of the hill.

We like to do it as family so on site food services, accommodations and parking would be great. A reasonable priced package for families, or group rates for clubs for example 4-H, etc...

I have skied at Agassiz in my teen years and many surrounding communities will benefit from its reopening!!!!!!

Chalet, food, other activities, off season activities.

Close to ski hill with restaurant, bar or lounge, pool and or hot tub.

My choice of resort would be a family one of course! Large facility, an area/space for people that don't ski or board (the ones that do the driving). Great "park" area for boarders/skiers that includes jumps, rails, etc. (watch out Shaun White!). Good food (essential), internet access, activities, competitions (prizes), updated facilities, "party" rooms for groups. Reasonable prices for lift tickets! The better the price-the more you sell!!!

The Closer to Winnipeg the better. Fun, well groomed, rentals available, hotel near by and a great place for the family

How far I have to travel, what the runs are like...

I loved Agassiz it was the best hill in Manitoba.

Sure hope it opens again.

I'm from the UK, but love trying new resorts - could almost do a 2 centre link up with another in Canada.....

I now live in Calgary in the ski industry and don't get a chance until our season is over.

Kids are just getting to skiing age 3,5,7 so we are planning on getting back into it next year, like I did as a kid - which was every w/e growing up in McCreary

Have been to various resorts for the downhill mountain biking, not so much the skiing.

Location. I skied at Agassiz for years while it was operating. Now I go to Minnedosa, which is ok but is not what Agassiz was and could be again.

I have never gone to (other) once.

I grew up skiing Agassiz EVERY year, EVERY weekend!

The memories are priceless. I would love to do the same for my family.

Shame on those responsible for it's closure and those responsible for not seeing that it is re-opened.

This affects family, community and an entire province.
Thank you
Janice

Proximity to home and hill - both conditions, overall experience and trail offerings.

I usually try to go to places I've been before. Distance to and from my home is the main thing I look at, also if I've enjoyed myself greatly the previous time(s) I've been to a place factors in.

A ski hill within a day trip from Winnipeg is something we would take advantage of a few times a season. Although we have not gone downhill skiing since Agassiz closed, now that our son is old enough, we would like to start again. A summer attraction that we enjoy is zip lining. The valleys around the ski hill would be ideal!

When I was still in School Agassiz Ski Hill was a place we frequented a lot. We never went to (other); it was just too out of the way.

I would love it if Agassiz were to reopen. I know my daughter would love to go snowboarding.

I'm too old to ski anymore but my children and grandchildren ski and snowboard. Although they do travel some, most of their skiing is done as close to home as possible.

Close to home is the determining factor however the hill needs to be big enough that both the parents and kids can have fun.

With small kids...proximity to Wpg is a key factor. (other) is far to long a drive for the wknd. Agassiz is about half the length of drive so far more appealing. It also has much better skiing.

Now we go to our cottage in Kenora and ski there, however, the skiing isn't nearly as good as Agassiz but again it is a lot closer than (other).

All we look for is good snow! A fast lift is nice, but we have skied many areas without fast chairs. Somewhere comfortable, something like Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge in Canmore is great

I have 4 small children so I am looking for a family friendly ski resort.

And something close to home, which Agassiz would be for me... would also be awesome!

With current choices, I prefer (other) due to the excellent chalet and sheer size. If Agassiz opened, it would be my frequent hill.

It's closer, and would likely be cheaper, while still offering jaw-dropping runs.

Good chalet, decent food (not just burgers & hotdogs)
chairlifts that are safe, also a smaller surface lift is great to spread out the people and provide a smaller run? A parking lot that is not too far from chalet

I think distance is one thing. I would prefer one that is close to home. Price is another. I am a single parent with 3 children so price is always a huge factor for me. When we plan things like this, it takes a large chunk of out my budget or I skimp on other things to make it happen, like not paying a utility bill for a month. If they offered "reasonable" prices or family packs that would be good. (Example just for my kids and I to attend a hockey game here, that can cost me 60 dollars, sometimes more depending on regular season or playoffs. Which is now starting to become too expensive for me to do as often as I would like.) Maybe that isn't an issue for a family that has two incomes but on one income it IS harder.

The size of the hill, and that's were I used to ski every weekend.

My opinion is that it's the best resort in Manitoba.

Great cross country trails would be appealing. I ski out of province usually once every 2-3 years for a few days.

A good, option, closer to home, would encourage me to do this more often in Manitoba.

Agassiz was a great place when I was young!! It was great for little town McCreary as well.

Would be a great place young to go!!!!
Close to home!!!!

We look for three things in particular because we have young children:
1. Chairlifts and when possible, magic carpets (no tow ropes or t-bars)
2. Large learning area with surface lift
3. good quality lessons and instructors.

It would be great if there was a resort in Manitoba with child care (and maybe even including lessons) for young children. For example, we likely would ski more often in Manitoba if (other) had child care. Instead, we generally do day trips and sometimes leave our kids with a sitter instead of taking them.

Well, we live in Manitoba so there are very few choices. I prefer to go to places where the runs are longer and not far from home.

Prefer a hill with a magic carpet on the bunny hill for my four year old.

My seven year old can ski any inbound terrain, but some chair lifts still give him stress. Prefer hills with more modern chair lifts. Do not like surface tows.

We have not skied in Manitoba as much as we might have otherwise since there are no child care services. The programs for younger children are not well developed for a ski day outing. There are good programs for children to learn to ski. I realize that even the big resorts struggle with child programs (e.g. day care), so it is not likely realistic to hope for all hills to have full child programs. It does make it tough for families where a child cannot ski for an entire day with their parents. Also not as fun for the parents to be limited to the bunny hill or green runs for the entire trip.

Close enough for a day trip, good terrain, properly groomed, good facilities for food drink and aprs ski.

I skied Agassiz for many years growing up.

It is a HUGE part of my childhood.

I wish I could bring my kids there during the winter seasons. They are missing out on something so wonderful in nature.

It really is a shame.

Please open soon.
Janice

Vertical is most important. 2nd is location (required driving time), 3rd is value for money, 4th is variety of terrain.
I tend to go to Ski Valley these days, almost same vertical as (other), much shorter drive, much cheaper.

(other) just isn't worth the premium for very little more vertical and longer lift lines. I can ski way more in a day at Ski Valley. Loved Agassiz due to its relatively short drive, longer than 'Dosa, but quite a bit more vertical, too.

Would be willing to pay a premium equal to (other) to ski here all winter. Would likely get a season pass for myself and my family.

Growing up, I lived only 1/2 hr away and used the facilities several times as a child, teenager and adult. Was very sorry to see it close and truly miss it, to date.

Recreation is a huge importance to every individual and the more we can provide for the future of our children, the healthy our country will be.

I believe, in order, for Agassiz to be cost effective, it would need to provide greater structure than just the skiing. Maybe cross country skiing, tubing, sledding. It would also need to provide year round activity...hiking, camping, etc.

Currently the only other ski resort that my family visits is (other). We do not attend frequently due to the distance to travel.

(other) has great chalet, service, well run and well maintained slopes.

Only issues are the length and altitude of slopes that do not compare to what Agassiz had.

True ski hill conditions such as found in other provinces. The present ski hill is not acceptable; therefore the family continues its drive by going to BC.

Member of Canadian Ski Patrol System and patrolled at Agassiz for almost 10 years before it closed. Would patrol at Agassiz again if it re-opened.

From Westmanchat.com

Earlier this year (before snow fell) I got a chance to go up the mountain with Kelly at Agassiz, and let me tell you this about that.

I've snowboarded at (other) for close to 10 years, and just seeing Agassiz, without snow or operational facilities, I was blown away. This hill NEEDS to be reopened, it is a crime against winter sport-lovers to keep it closed.

Agassiz is awesome, and from the sounds of it, government officials are on the side of opening it. I know Sopuck and Briese are anyways.

Out of all the years I have lived/grew up in Manitoba I never really did get to see the surrounding areas of Agassiz. Now that I have a family of my own I would love take my husband and son there to ski. It would be a nice family vacation.

It is a natural resource that is just being left to rot. These are not man-made slopes, these are slopes that typically accompany ski resorts!! Manitoba tourism really has nothing much to boast about outside of Winnipeg since this area has closed.

I did have many a great time at the area and just as I was being introduced to the great sport of ski, it closed. I have also gone to other areas in the province and I really have to say that the attraction to the sport was somewhat diminished, the appeal gone, all due to the unappealing location!

I used to ride Agassiz a lot. I skied there for the first time ever. I have so many great memories of going there with school, with my church youth group and for weekend trips with my friends. I would love to take my kids there sometime in the future.

I would like another Mtn developed that is closer with more vertical.
I skied Agassiz quite a bit, in its heyday, knew Jack Taylor, personally.

I last was skiing at Agassiz in its last year of operations. I went on many yearly school trips in the 90's from the Interlake School Division. Alot of memorable moments, good times, and I encourage you to continue to fight the good fight. I want to see Agassiz Ski Area open for business!

I grew up racing in MB when this resort was a venue. I am now living within 1 hour of McCreary, but driving 2 hours to Holiday Mtn so that my children can be involved in this sport in the way I was.

The school I currently teach at used to visit Agassiz a couple of times a year to ski and now we don't travel anywhere to ski.

Friends living in my current area who used to frequent Agassiz now just pack up the car and head straight to Alberta for their week of skiing instead to spending weekends locally.

I would like to see Agassiz redeveloped because I believe it would be economically and recreationally, beneficial to people for 100's of miles around the mount. I personally cannot take part in the skiing/snowboarding but would just love to head out to ski hill and sit in the lodge with a cup of hot chocolate and watch all the skiers having a blast.

Comments from Survey #2 -

"What determines your choice of resort and what amenities do you look for

(within Manitoba only)?"

I used to go snowboarding every weekend and would make at least one trip a year to the Rockies. Since Agassiz closed down, I have no desire to board anywhere else in Manitoba. Holiday is too small and (other) is just too far for a day trip. Because I don't go snowboarding as often now, I don't have the same desire to go out west. This really sucks!!! I miss the feeling of riding down the hill!! I have been following this site since it started and personally can't wait to ride Agassiz again!! It has sooooo much potential to be even better than it was when it was shut down.

We only go out once a year, because I don't like the added cost of travelling. The kids really enjoy it, but wish we could go more often. If McCreary opened again, problem solved. Good Luck

After hours activities are important to me. Having good, respectable bars and lounges are especially important.

My family and I love to ski. I moved from Winnipeg, Manitoba to Blue Ridge, GA. I try to come back to Manitoba every year to visit family and friends. If Agassiz re-opened I would vacation in the area to ski with my husband and son. I have a girlfriend I went to high school with that owns a business in McCreary, MB so I would make a huge effort to vacation there in the future.

Length/slope/number of runs, staff friendliness, comfort of ski lodge, and travel distance from Winnipeg.

Up to date facilities and equipment. Entertainment facilities to accomodate all family members/ages. Groomed runs, ski patrol, free WIFI. I want it all. Make it worth my while to come out and drop some money even if I decide not to board that day while the family does.

Accessibility, challenging terrain, proximity, affordability, quality of slope.

As somebody who is an accomplished skier, the main thing I look for in a resort is challenge. Without question, Agassiz has the most challenging terrain in all of Manitoba, and quite probably the entire prairies. (I have not skied in the SK or AB prairies except COP)

When I moved to Winnipeg to attend school, proximity was most important to me. I patrolled (volunteer and professional) and instructed at Springhill while attending the U of M. In one year I logged over 120 days/nights on the hill!

Today, I find that variety is most important. The resort must have something to offer the entire family, meaning a reasonably wide range of services and activities. Proximity is also important, and this is why Springhill will be best 7 days a week whereas Agassiz will be a weekend destination for most.

However, the two are not in competition. Springhill can be considered a feeder hill for larger prairie resorts frequented by 'weekenders', and for thedestination resorts of the Rockies.

Vertical, varying terrain, bluffs that keep the wind at bay; different faces that help when the windchill is up.
It has to have a good daylodge with a good food court.
It should be accessible to the disabled.

Ski rentals, a lounge, and possibly a hotel attached or just offsite would be beneficial. I like to be able to pull into town and enjoy myself without the need for alot of inter-travel.

Affordable accommodations (other) is priced higher than mountain resorts so I pick Holiday.
Room to bag lunch, with microwave etc available.
Support for racing programs - let racers train without feeling like we are an inconvenience...we bring money to the hill too!

Distance, cost, food, and snowboarding quality.

Driving distance and quality of skiing.