Eagle Point Resort announced plans to rebuild following the Cottonwood Fire, despite facing an uncertain timeline for recovery. The human-caused wildfire, which has burned over 96,000 acres, impacted 300 of the resort's 600 skiable acres within the Fishlake National Forest.
Owner Shane Gadbaw stated that while the fire caused permanent damage to parts of the mountain, the community intends to rebuild. The resort is currently focusing on insurance claims to cover damages to five snowmobiles, the Canyonside Lodge, and four chairlifts.
The fire has had a significant impact on employment, with Gadbaw noting that only two of approximately 15 full-time employees have been retained. Additionally, around 100 seasonal employees are expected to be affected in December, as summer operations ended the day the fire began.
Beyond the resort's infrastructure, the fire impacted the surrounding community. Approximately 145 families lost property, representing more than half of the community, and 17 families were displaced.
The Forest Service anticipates the region will remain an active fire area for several months due to smoldering hot spots. To assist with recovery efforts that insurance and government aid may not cover, Eagle Point Resort is establishing a foundation called BEAVER-TUF.
