$140,600 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Gives Mt. Dufour Ski Area a Big Upgrade

On Friday, MPP Michael Mantha met with the team at Mt. Dufour Ski Area to formally congratulate them on the work that’s happened as a result of a $140,600 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant, awarded this summer, was used to upgrade and install a new septic system. The project will enable Mt. Dufour to continue to provide outdoor recreational activities at the Ski Area while upgrading its original 1970’s septic infrastructure to help promote four seasons outdoor recreation opportunities and play host for events for the community of Elliot Lake and surrounding area.

 

“I’ve long maintained that Elliot Lake is one of the best places in the province to live,” said Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Michael Mantha. “How many communities can say they have enjoyed the opportunities a local ski hill like Mount Dufour almost literally in their own backyard.” He pointed out that for nearly 50 years, generations of families have “gnawed their teeth” on ski poles at Mount Dufour Ski area. “Thanks to the generous support of OTF the facility’s septic system infrastructure, people continue enjoying local access to this incredible facility for decades. Congratulations to all who helped make this happen.”

 

The aging 45-year-old septic infrastructure had recently shown signs of failure from its original functionality and capacity when it was installed in the late 1970’s, during construction of the current chalet. The funds from the grant were used to buy and install a much larger capacity concrete septic tank and septic tile field, in line with current building codes and environmental standards. This will ensure the longevity of the existing sewage infrastructure for the chalet and potential future growth thereof.

The original septic tank had reached it’s end of life and began to fail during high-capacity weekends and events hosted at Mt. Dufour.

 

Mt. Dufour Ski Area is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing excellence in alpine skiing and snowboarding. The group provides facilities for both the members of the Club and the general public, as well as the Elliot Lake Ski Racers. It serves residents of the City of Elliot Lake as well as many surrounding underserved communities along the Lake Huron North Shore, including 4 First Nations. Is it also a key tourism asset for the City of Elliot Lake and surrounding areas.

 

“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Mt. Dufour Ski Club deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure that it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come."

 

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment.

 

Visit otf.ca to learn more.