Position will oversee the resort’s newly created sustainability commitment

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO-September 10, 2019— In a bold commitment to sustainability, Steamboat Ski Resort is proud to announce the appointment of Sarah Jones as the resort’s first Director of Sustainability and Community Engagement. In this role, Jones will be responsible for developing and driving the resort’s sustainability practices through programming, education, community outreach and more.

“Steamboat has always been committed to sustainability and making conscientious decisions for our staff, guests and the community, but we took a hard look at ourselves and realized that we were falling short and it was time to do something big,” said Rob Perlman, president and COO of Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation. “In order to make a real impact in our resort, community and the industry we need to create tactical, meaningful programs and practices. To do this successfully we recognized the need for a department dedicated to sustainability. We are thrilled to bring on Sarah Jones at a senior level as the first director to lead our sustainability initiatives.”

Jones brings nearly two decades of professional experience in sustainability and environmental programming to Steamboat Ski Resort.  Most recently, Jones served as the Executive Director of the Yampa Valley Sustainability Council (YVSC) since 2012 planning, executing and budgeting all programs for the organization. She worked closely with local government on climate mitigation, energy and waste diversion issues; supported the advancement of community sustainability and resilience efforts; and advocated for rural waste diversion and energy issues at the state level. Prior to her role at YVSC, Jones worked as an environmental consultant and helped schools develop sustainable practices in the Denver area.

In her new role, Jones will be responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing all the resort’s sustainability programming and practices as well as improving Steamboat’s operational environmental performance and further resort policy goals on climate and energy. Jones will champion the development and execution of guiding principles and an environmental management plan for Steamboat specific to operational performance, energy conservation and clean energy, waste management, water conservation, education & outreach, and more. Jones will also be responsible for community outreach making sure locals, guests and the understand and support Steamboat’s sustainability initiatives.

 “I am looking forward to building Steamboat’s environmental programming and laying the groundwork for the resort to continue to grow and respect our environment.” said Jones. “The foundation for sustainability practices already exists here and now I get to dive in and boost our efforts to really make an impact both internally and in our community. I am excited to develop these initiatives and to share what we’re doing so others will follow.”

Jones was appointed after an extensive nation-wide search to fill the position. “Sarah’s is a true leader in this community when it comes to sustainability,” said Perlman. “Combine Sarah’s local sustainability accomplishments with her passion for Steamboat and we have the recipe to make a significant impact in keeping Steamboat special forever.”

Jones has lived in Steamboat since 2010 with her husband and two high school-aged sons. An active community member, Jones currently serves on the Routt County Economic Development Council, Colorado Mountain College Advisory Board and Community Education Committee, Routt County Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory steering committee and the Steamboat Arts and Culture Coalition. Beyond Steamboat, Jones is a sector representative for Recycle Colorado.

Jones will begin her new role on September 30. Until then, Steamboat Ski Resort and YVSC will work together to ensure a smooth transition and continued strong partnership into the future.