The Fernie Trails and Ski Touring Club (FT&STC) has awarded its first avalanche education bursaries of 2014. Melissa Makepeace received $1000 for her CAA Level II and Curtis Hall received $650 for his CAA Level I. Catherine Sullivan was also awarded a bursary however has since decided not to take her AST II.

The avalanche bursaries have been set up with the goal of promoting avalanche safety and awareness in the Elk Valley and to assist individuals who are pursuing a career in the avalanche industry. Avalanche bursaries have been awarded in Fernie for the past eight years, the FT&STC is pleased to have taken up the cause this year.

Bursaries are up to $1000 and are available to successful applicants for the purpose of introductory Avalanche Safety Training courses (AST) or a Canadian Avalanche Association Industry Training Program Level I or II. Preference will be given to locals or those who have shown a commitment to living and working in the Fernie area. Bursary monies remain available for 2014.

Applicants must submit a letter which outlines their experience in winter backcountry travel,interest in the avalanche phenomenon and their personal or professional goals with respect to avalanche safety in the Elk Valley. Applications should be directed to fernietrails@fernie.com.

The Fernie Trails & Ski Touring Club was incorporated in 1993 and its goal is to maintain responsible, non-motorized trail access, including steward-ship of Fernie Mountain Park trails. The organization also maintains and manages Thunder Meadows and Tunnel Creek backcountry cabins for winter touring and hiking. See more at fernietrails.com