The Michigan Ski Area Safety Board was created under Public Act 199 of 1962, as amended to license and regulate ski areas and ski lifts in Michigan.
The Ski Area Safety Act defines ski area as an area used for skiing and served by one or more lifts. Ski lifts are defined as a device for transporting persons uphill on skis, or in cars on tracks, or suspended in the air by use of cables, belts, or ropes, and usually supported by trestles or towers with one or more spans.
The Board works with the Department to oversee the operation of ski areas, surface and chair lifts, and rope tows.
The Board consists of 7 members: 3 ski area managers (1 from Upper Peninsula, 2 from Lower Peninsula), 1 member of the central US Ski Association, 1 engineer with skiing experience, 1 person with skiing experience from the Upper Peninsula representing the general public, and 1 person with skiing experience from the Lower Peninsula representing the general public
Matthew Torreano of Marquette is an outreach specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and is an avid skier who previously worked as a ski instructor at Marquette Mountain.
Torreano earned his bachelor’s degree in recreation management from Northern Michigan University. He will represent public members from the Upper Peninsula with ski experience and replace James Grundstrom.
Torreano will serve a four-year term expiring June 8, 2022. His appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
