2025 Fall/Winter Newsletter
As we enjoy the last of the golden leaves and prepare for the first snowfall, we want to share important updates to help everyone stay safe, informed, and ready for the winter season ahead.
This issue covers fire mitigation, culvert maintenance, winter road safety, trash & trails, board nominations, and our beloved Holiday Party.
Fire Mitigation
The HOA Fire Mitigation Committee and Design Review & Property Committee recommend preventative treatment within 100 feet of all Ski Ranches structures (and within 100 feet of your neighbors’ structures). Please plan now for your spring mitigation work. Start Here
Wildfire Survey: If you haven’t participated yet, our Ski Ranches input is needed!
Fall Community Clean-Up Dumpster Available!
Location: Fox Farm at Elk Park • Dates: November 3 – November 24, 2025
Bruin Waste will provide a 30-yard dumpster for community use as a gesture of goodwill. The dumpster will be at the top of Fox Farm at Elk Park and remain in place for three full weekends to dispose of unwanted items.
Please Remember — Do NOT place the following items in the dumpster:
Tires, batteries, or hazardous materials
Liquid waste (oil, antifreeze, wet paint – paint cans may be dried)
Medical or radioactive waste
Appliances containing Freon
Solar panels or electronic waste
Construction or remodel debris
This dumpster is for neighborhood use only. Please help keep it clean and accessible for everyone.
Questions? Contact Peter McGinty.
Culverts and Water Main Shutoffs
Maintaining driveway culverts and water main shutoffs is the responsibility of all property owners. Please check now before heavy snowfall.
Culverts: Confirm both ends are clear and visible. Clean out debris to prevent snowmelt overflow and icing on roads.
Water Main Shutoffs: Identify your shutoff with a blue post. Ensure it’s accessible and functional, and that you have the proper tool to operate it in case of emergency.
Trash, Trails, and Tidy Lots
As the snow begins to fall, please secure trash and recycling bins tightly. Wildlife remain active into late fall. When you’re out for a walk, consider picking up litter along trails or roadways — small efforts keep Ski Ranches beautiful.
New: We’ve started a Trails Committee and are looking for volunteers!
Click here to reach out to Peter McGinty for details
Winter Road Safety
Our winding roads can become slick and narrow during storms — please drive cautiously and keep speeds to 15 mph or less. Many residents (and pets!) still enjoy walking throughout winter.
Report speeding or unsafe driving to the San Miguel County Sheriff
at 970-728-1911.
San Miguel County Snow & Road Rules
No on-street parking day or night during snow months and plow operations; parking only in driveways.
Keep trash cans on your property and off the right-of-way and promptly remove them after pickup.
Snow from private lots must remain on your property — do not move snow across roads.
Owners are responsible for clearing snow berms left by plows at driveway entrances.
Use 4-wheel drive and winter tires to navigate hilly terrain safely.
Drive slowly, stay on your side of the road, and watch for pedestrians and dogs.
County Snow Plowing Schedule
Weekdays: 3–4 inches of snow triggers plow operations Monday–Friday.
Weekends: 6+ inches triggers weekend plowing as needed.
Board Nominations — Call for Candidates
Four Board seats are open for the 2026–2028 term. We invite homeowners to nominate themselves or another willing community member.
Click Here for Board Candidate Information Form
Completed forms are requested by Monday, November 17th, 2025. Please confirm your nominee is willing to serve before submitting.
Save the Date: Ski Ranches Holiday Party
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025,
We’re delighted to announce that Lisa and Jeff Mortier will host this year’s Ski Ranches Holiday Party at their residence! More details will follow soon — including time, food signups, and volunteer opportunities.
Get Involved & Stay Connected
Join our Facebook group for updates, event info, and to connect with neighbors:
Click here to visit the Ski Ranches Facebook Group
We’re always looking for volunteers for community projects, event coordination, and trail cleanup — your participation makes a real difference!
Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting will take place in early January 2026 — details and Zoom options will be sent soon. It’s a great opportunity to review the state of the HOA, the budget, and welcome new Board members.
Ski Ranches Owners Website
Remember — the Ski Ranches Owners website is a wealth of valuable information at your fingertips.
Find HOA documents, forms, contact info, meeting notes, and community resources in one place.
As we move into another beautiful winter in the San Juans, we’re grateful for the care, cooperation, and neighborly spirit that make Ski Ranches such a special place to live. Whether you’re here full-time or part-time, your involvement keeps our community vibrant and welcoming.
We look forward to seeing you at the Holiday Party and Annual Meeting!
For questions or HOA updates, contact Tony Quinlan
Wishing everyone a safe, happy, and peaceful winter season!
— Your Ski Ranches HOA Board
