Backcountry guide company faces $150K in fines after California’s deadliest modern avalanche
San Francisco (AP) — California workplace safety officials have imposed a $150,300 fine on Blackbird Mountain Guides following a deadly avalanche that claimed nine lives during a backcountry skiing excursion in February. The guide company, which led 15 skiers on a three-day trek into the Sierra Nevada wilderness, was cited for seven alleged violations by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA).
The largest fine, $81,000, was for the company's failure to address the high avalanche danger. Blackbird Mountain Guides, owners of which include experienced backcountry skiers and American Mountain Guides Association-certified professionals, has filed an appeal and maintains it was fully compliant with regulations. The Nevada County Sheriff’s Department is conducting a criminal investigation, and the case may lead to criminal charges.
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