Bear are extremely wary of people and will abandon a habitat or feeding ground if people regularly frequent it. Third, the Slide Brook habitat is adjacent to bear travel corridors that run along the spine of the Green Mountains. As a separate matter from the violations and this settlement, Sugarbush expressed its interest in preserving the Slide Brook habitat as undeveloped wilderness. Sugarbush will work with citizens' groups, the U.S. Forest Service and the State of Vermont to achieve that goal. Sorrell commends such land preservation efforts.
Wildlife habitat is an essential part of Vermont's heritage and character.
Ski areas are important players in preserving habitat for future Vermonters. We hope to continue working with ski areas to preserve and protect the environmental qualities of Vermont that residents and visitors have come to expect and enjoy.