As part of a new fundraising effort, Bigrock Mountain has landed a $350,000 grant from Presque Isle-born philanthropist Mary Barton Smith.
Smith, the widow of the late Silicon Valley executive Rodney Smith, has long shared her wealth with Aroostook County institutions and causes, including the Nordic Heritage Center and Northern Maine Community College.
Now, Bigrock Mountain in Mars Hill is the beneficiary of a $350,000 grant from Smith, which is kicking off a new fundraising campaign for the 56-year-old alpine ski area.
Sixth-graders Mallory Kingsbury of Bridgewater and Frankie Pierce were among the skiers who bundled up for Bigrock Mountain’s opening day in December.
(Anthony Brino | BDN)
“I’m excited to start the Bigrock Capital Fund and hope others will join the effort to make this important community resource available for future generations,” Smith, who resides in California, said in a media release.
“Northern Maine has long snowy winters, and to lead healthy lives people of all ages need affordable access to outdoor winter recreation,” Smith added.
Bigrock general manager Travis Kearney said that the funds will be aimed at paying off debt associated with a new ski slope groomer, upgrading the skis and snowboards offered for rentals, and expanding the new snow tubing park. He said a target goal for the fundraising campaign has not been set yet.
“Mary’s gift will have a profound and lasting impact on our mountain and the people we serve,” said Darrell McCrum, chairman of the board of Bigrock, which is operated as a nonprofit.
