RUMFORD — Black Mountain Ski Resort has completed the upgrading of the John Roderick Trail System.

The project was funded by a $44,000 grant from the Recreational Trails Program of the Maine Division of Parks and Public Lands using funds provided by the Federal Transportation Department and the State.

The grant was conceived to develop a trail system that would better meet the needs for world-class cross-country competitions as well as a development system to introduce youth to the world of Nordic skiing both recreational and competitive with healthy exercise. In addition, the objective was to provide a trail system that would also support a four-season program for Western Maine citizens. The modifications would support snowshoeing, ski-joring, Nordic walking, dog sledding, hiking, biking, running, walking and horseback riding. There would be opportunities to provide recreational activities and competitive programs for local, regional and national events.

The summer and fall of 2013 were stressful with the potential closing of Black Mountain, bu the generosity of many loyal supporters provided the financial reserves to proceed with the preparations to open the ski area. The support provided the incentive to go ahead with the trail project.

Local businesses and towns donated culverts or offered materials at cost and Savage Contracting of Bethel submitted a favorable bid to do the trail work which included some donated services. Fred Bailey, who had managed a similar project for Maine Winter Sports Center in Aroostock County, agreed to oversee the project and his family donated 152 bales of mulch hay. Chisholm Ski Club members and local high school ski teams from the River Valley provided many hours of volunteer time. Chummy Broomhall provide many full days of service with his skidder to monitor modifications and to clear trees and collect brush for biomass that his brothers Ray and Butch had cut to prepare the trail sides. Savage Contracting widened trails, extended culverts and reshaped segments of the trail system to accommodate multiple uses.

Because the grant funding was based on reimbursement of approved paid expenses, Chisholm Ski Club committed to provide cash for Black Mountain to pay the bills for materials and service. At this time all expenses have been paid and the State and Black Mountain have reimbursed the club for all of the committed funds.

Black Mountain Ski Resort would like to thank the State of Maine for their grant support, the Chisholm Ski Club and the community for their financial support and volunteer hours that made it possible.

A grand opening event to celebrate the upgraded John Roderick Trail System will take place in the spring after the trails have dried and grass has begun to grow.

The trails are now well covered with natural snow and groomed for freestyle and classic skiing. All winter activities are offered by arrangement with Black Mountain in advance.

Individuals, groups and organizations are invited to contact Black Mountain Ski Resort regarding availability of the trails at 364-8977, 39 Glover Road, Rumford ME 04224, and bmominfo@roadrunner.com. Usage fees may be charged for some activities.