Far West Ski Association Announces Powerful Climate Change Panel at Annual Convention
A snowboarder in mid-rotation contemplates an uncertain future for snow sports - Richard Hallman Photo
PALM SPRINGS, CA — April 22, 2025 — The Far West Ski Association (FWSA) is proud to present a powerful and timely panel, “Climate Change and the Future of Snowsports,” during its Annual Convention in Palm Springs, California, June 12 - 15, 2025.
This compelling discussion brings together leading voices in climate science, energy innovation, and environmental restoration to examine the most pressing challenge facing the winter sports industry today: climate change. As warming temperatures continue to impact snowpack, season lengths, and the viability of winter tourism, the FWSA Environment Committee is taking action to raise awareness and drive meaningful dialogue.
Panelists include:
Erica Fleishman, Director of the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, who will present the latest science on how climate change is altering weather patterns, snowfall, and the mountain environment.
Curtis Shuck, Founder of the Well Done Foundation, who will share his inspiring work capping abandoned oil wells and eliminating methane emissions, one of the most potent greenhouse gases.
Dr. Thomas Spiglanin, Director of Education at Palm Springs Windmill Tours, who will explore the role of renewable energy—especially wind—in powering a cleaner, climate-resilient future.
The session will also feature a special video message from Auden Schendler, former VP of Sustainability at Aspen One and nationally recognized climate advocate, offering an industry-wide perspective on policy, advocacy, and action.
“A slowly warming planet poses an existential threat to the snowsports we love so much. This session isn’t just about what we’re losing—it’s about what we can do,” said Dave Tragethon, FWSA Environment Committee Chair. “We want our members to leave this session with a sense of urgency, yes—but also a sense of empowerment. Change is happening, but so is action.”
The panel takes place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs, 10:45 am - 12:15 pm, Salon B. The public is welcome to attend.
For more information, visit: fwsa.org/
Panel Session Contact: FWSA Convention Contact:
Dave Tragethon Jane Wyckoff
Chair, Environment Committee Convention Co-Chair
Far West Ski Association Far West Ski Association
503.680.2685 | environment@fwsa.org 949-933-9607 | conventionchair@fwsa.org
