The Wasserngrat is known to have reliable snow conditions due to its north-western orientation and the slope is ideal for alpine disciplines. Therefore, the slopes are popular for training with ski clubs from the wider and closer surroundings. Various races by the Eagle Club, the Institut Le Rosey, various ski clubs and local enterprises are also held at Wasserngrat. "We want to separate the training and racing operations from the public operations," said board member Hans-Ruedi Steiner at the meeting. To increase the safety of all skiers, Wasserngrat 2000 AG is therefore planning a training and racing piste to the right of red piste no. 56, which will include snow making facilities.

Development regulations to be put to the municipal assembly
For a separate training piste, the development regulations for this plot must be amended. To this end, a meeting was held with the landowners and representatives of the responsible authorities. Everyone was positive about the project, said Steiner. He hoped that the zoning ordinance will be presented to the municipal assembly in spring 2022. If everything goes according to plan, the forestry work and the levelling of the terrain will begin in autumn 2022. The training piste could be put into operation in winter 2022/23.

Using synergies with Ski Future Saanenland
A training and racing piste already exists at the Huble. In addition, the Huble is to be converted and expanded into a skiing centre. Offers for ski jumping, cross-country skiing, alpine and freestyle are planned. "The offer at Wasserngrat complements the offer at Huble," emphasises Steiner. Initial talks have taken place on the use of synergies with Ski Future Saanenland. Steiner states: "The intention of the training slope at Wasserngrat is to increase safety, not primarily to increase the number of visitors.

Undisputed agenda items
While Wasserngrat 2000 AG made 12 per cent less turnover in 2019/20 due to the rainy winter weekends and the pandemic, a strict cost control could absorb these losses, said Philipp Gudin, chairman of the board of directors.

Based on AvS/Blanca Burri