Tipton: Feds Backed Resort Into Corner

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (AP) -- Congressman Scott Tipton says the U.S. Forest Service forced Powderhorn Mountain Resort to surrender water rights so the ski area could open in two weeks.

Tipton wrote Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell this week, asking the agency to honor a water agreement reached between Powderhorn, other ski areas and the George W. Bush administration.

The Grand Junction Sentinel reported Wednesday (http://bit.ly/uLeIOf) that Tipton urged the agency to ensure Powderhorn retains its rights. He said current Forest Service policy could cost ski resorts financing for maintenance and development because water is so valuable.

Powderhorn is scheduled to open Dec. 15.

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