USFS approves controversial Breckenridge expansion

The Forest Service is allowing Breckenridge ski area to proceed with a controversial, 550-acre expansion known as Peak 6.

The decision announced Tuesdayoutlined White River National Forest Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams' reasoning for allowing the expansion after more than five years of environmental review.

The 2.3 million-acre White River National Forest is about 70 percent roadless wilderness with about 50,000 acres of lift-served skiing at multiple resorts that host more than 7 million annual skier visits. Balancing that recreational experience and the economic impact it makes in local communities with his agency's mandate to protect natural resources is "a balancing act we do every day," Fitzwilliams said.