The Sierra Avalanche Center is an indispensable resource for those of us who frequent backcountry slopes in the Tahoe area. When there’s snow on the ground, they’re out there at dawn assessing he snowpack so they can pass the information to you. And it’s free to you and me. Pretty good deal, huh?

A really good way to help support the SAC, is really no sacrifice at all – simply purchase cheap lift tickets. These tickets are provided to the SAC by ski areas like Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Sugar Bowl, Heavenly, Kirkwood and others. The tickets are then offered to you at a discount, with all the proceeds going to fund the great work they do everyday.

Check out the deals here, and get out there!

Also, if you need a primer on avalanche awareness, or need to brush up on your skills, the SAC is offering a free avalanche awareness clinic at Squaw Valley on Friday, January 20.