Wyden, Merkley Announce $650,000 Loan for Improvements at Anthony Lakes Ski Area to Enhance Safety and Support Local Economy

September 03, 2026 Wyden, Merkley Announce $650,000 Loan for Improvements at Anthony Lakes Ski Area to Enhance Safety and Support Local Economy Washington D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal loan of $650,000 for the Anthony Lakes Outdoor Recreation Association (ALORA) to build a new rental shop to support ski programs and the local economy. “Anthony Lakes is a crown jewel of Eastern Oregon drawing skiers, snowshoers, and outdoor enthusiasts whose visits directly fuel the local economy in Baker and Union counties,” Wyden said. “Investing in this new rental shop ensures ALORA can continue expanding its community ski programs and welcoming visitors with top-tier facilities. I will keep pushing for federal investments like these that protect Oregon's outdoor recreation opportunities and keep our rural economies moving forward.” “Anthony Lakes is a treasured part of Eastern Oregon, bringing people together to enjoy the outdoors and supporting the small businesses in surrounding rural communities,” said Merkley. “This federal loan will help Anthony Lakes continue welcoming visitors from across the region and providing affordable skiing opportunities for Baker County youth and veterans—ensuring this special place can serve Eastern Oregon for generations to come.” This $650,000 investment to ALORA is from the USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program in partnership with Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative. Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest has been in operation for more than 85 years and is owned and operated by the nonprofit. This investment along with funds from additional community contributors and donations will replace the current 70-year-old structure with a new two-story facility capable of holding retail space, the repair shop, and seasonal staff accommodations. “OTEC and the USDA have helped make this very important project possible. The Rural Economic Development Loan program will allow Anthony Lakes to continue offering current programs as we see the building project through. The new building is an investment in the future of outdoor recreation in our region and provides an amazing space to create more opportunities for our local youth. ALORA is beyond grateful for the support from OTEC, the USDA, almost 200 community members and businesses, and the grant funds received to make this project a reality," said Chelsea Judy, Anthony Lakes Outdoor Recreation Association Marketing Director. Print Email Tweet Previous Article