Sustainability

Bridger Bowl is committed to sustainability and community. From land stewardship to energy efficiency, every effort protects the mountain for future generations.

Sustainability in Numbers

13.8 Tons

Landfill Waste Reduced

68,515 kWh per year

Of Clean Solar Energy Produced

25,997

Bus Rides per Year

Bridger Bowl has a longstanding commitment to stewardship; from private land holdings to the partnership with Custer-Gallatin National Forest, the ski area maintains a constant effort to reduce environmental impact. Bridger Bowl is committed to operating the ski area in the most socially responsible manner possible. Energy and product purchases, waste stream management and care for the land are conducted in an accountable manner consistent with prudent and environmentally sustainable practices.

This commitment extends to preserving the culture and vitality of Bridger Bowl as a community ski area and maintaining a healthy place for locals and visitors alike to recreate. Recognizing the importance in the community, Bridger Bowl is passionate about preserving the essence of Bridger for future generations.

During the 2018-19 season, data was collected throughout the organization in order to calculate Bridger’s carbon footprint. This data provides a baseline for gauging the performance of future efforts, demonstrates how much change is possible in the short-term, and guides the development of short- and long-term reduction goals. These efforts are spearheaded by the newly formed Green Team, comprised of enthusiastic individuals from across the Bridger Bowl workforce. The Green Team is researching, implementing and advocating for best sustainability practices in the operations of every department. Bridger Bowl joins 194 other ski areas in National Ski Area Association’s Sustainable Slopes Program. As a member of the NSAA Climate Challenge, we completed a ski area greenhouse gas inventory in 18-19 and are committed to ongoing GHG reduction projects.

Initiatives

Our sustainability program spans energy, water, waste, and transportation. Browse each category to learn what we’re doing now and the measurable impact each project is delivering.

Sustainability Projects

Tabs control the Sustainability sections on this page.

Energy

Solar Project

Through grant funding from NorthWestern Energy, Bridger Bowl partnered with local provider OnSite Energy to invest in a clean energy solar project aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The system primarily supports upper mountain lift operations while also offsetting energy use at Deer Park Chalet (DPC).

Generates up to 68,515 kWh of clean energy annually

Fully supports Deer Park Chalet’s summer operations

Reduces traditional energy demand for lift infrastructure

Advances Bridger Bowl’s transition toward renewable energy

Features on-mountain display centers with real-time production data

Lodges

Bridger Bowl is in the process of incorporating energy saving improvements in all lodges by upgrading to LED lighting, motion sensor switches, and Energy Star rated appliances.

Our total clean energy generated to date is equivalent to...

203.8 Metric Tonsof CO2 in the atmosphere3,397 Treesgrown for 10 years

This renewable generation project received funding through the Northwestern Energy Energy Efficiency Plus renewable energy program. The program is established with Universal System Benefits Program Funds collected from all NWE customers in Montana.

Deer Park Chalet with Solar Panels

Water Management

Water Filling Stations

Hydration Stations in Every Lodge

Bring a Bottle. Leave No Trace.

Or purchase a refillable, packable water bottle in our retail store

WaterSense Faucets & Low-Flow Toilets

Smart Water Use Across the Mountain

Upgraded Fixtures for Water Efficiency

Water-Saving Technology in Every Lodge

Wastewater Treatment Wetland Project

Since 2012, Bridger Bowl has partnered with the Department of Civil Engineering at Montana State University to develop a sustainable wastewater treatment solution for mountain environments. Supported in part by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, the project centers on a two-stage vertical flow treatment wetland that uses native plants to naturally remove nitrogen while reducing energy demand.

Replaced energy-intensive recirculating sand filters with plant-based treatment

Established regional design standards and best practices

Provides a scalable solution for mountain communities

Significantly lowers energy use compared to conventional systems

Preserves the surrounding Western landscape through nature-based infrastructure

Bridger Bowl Water Fountain

Waste Management

Bridger Bowl has significantly expanded its waste diversion efforts, growing its recycling program from 16.7 to 30.5 tons over the past two seasons and reducing landfill waste by 13.8 tons. With a long-standing commitment to responsible resource management, the mountain continues working toward a goal of recycling 100% of recyclable materials.

Bales cardboard and crushes glass on-site for reuse

Recycles oils, grease, fryer fats, metals, wire, plastics, paper, and magazines

Launched composting in 2020 to further reduce landfill waste

Partnered with www.happytrashcan.net and sourced bear-proof bins from www.owenhouse.com

Diverted approximately 17.4 tons of compostable material, saving an estimated 12 MTCO₂e

Recycling Station at Bridger Bowl

Transportation

Park N Ride

Since 2007, Bridger Bowl has leased a parking lot at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds for the use of carpooling and bus riders.

Car Pooling

Guests with three (3) or more in a vehicle have access to parking closer to the lodge. Two events each year award carpooling groups with deeply discounted lift tickets or mountain-wide discounted food and beverage purchases for season passholders.

Bus Transportation

In continual effort to reduce Bridger Bowl’s carbon footprint, bus service is provided FREE OF CHARGE from MSU or the Gallatin County Fairgrounds (at the park & ride lot) for employees and guests.

Thanks for Car Pooling Sign

Recognition and Awards

2021-22

Sustainability Director received NSAA Hero of Sustainability Award

2019-20

Winner of the National Ski Area Association Golden Eagle Award for Environmental Excellence

2019-20

NSAA runner up for Innovation in Sustainability for vertical flow water treatment wetlands

2009

Montana Department of Environmental Quality Certificate of Environmental Excellence

2008

National Geographic’s Greater Yellowstone Region Geo-tourism Map for sustainable practices and service as a non-profit community ski area

2008

Gallatin National Forest Sustainability Achievement Award

Advocacy and Partnerships

National Ski Area Association’s Climate Challenge, and Sustainable Slopes programs enhance and inform our sustainability efforts.

Bridger Bowl also partners with Protect Our Winters, Montana Renewable Energy Association, We Are Still In, and Montana Environmental Information Center.

Education and Outreach