Nordic Skiing and COVID-19

The current restrictions may be found at this location
http://www.ferniestrong.com/

Any questions? Please reach out to us. Contact us through this website.

covid banner

The health and safety of our members, visitors, staff and community is our highest priority. 

The Society is committed to operating our trails, facilities and programs this winter by adhering to the guidelines set out by the government and provincial health authorities. This season, you will notice the continuation of protocols that support public health orders and restrictions including limited access to the hut and other indoor spaces, a focus on keeping our programs outside and on-snow, and more flexible cancellation policies.

This season our youth programs (Bunnies & Jackrabbits, Track Attack, Junior Racers) and Masters Program will proceed. 

We know how important it is for our nordic skiing community to be able to access the healthy, active, outdoor activities we all love and depend upon so much. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we navigate the continued challenges presented by the pandemic. 

Parking Lots and Trail Heads

Physical distancing begins in the parking lots at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre and Fernie Golf Club. Signs will be used to encourage skiers to be mindful, give space and take turns if parties in neighbouring vehicles are arriving or departing at the same time.

If 2 metres physical distancing is not possible, skiers are encouraged to wear a mask in high traffic areas, including outside at trailheads.

Kiosks

The following safety precautions will be implemented in the kiosks:

• Memberships will be purchased independently online on Zone4.
• Please contact info@fernienordic.com if you are unable to register online.
• As usual, we request that you retain your membership card from previous years so that we do not have to issue you a new one. As in past years, a new sticker to returning members will be available at each kiosk if you want one, otherwise we will work on the honour system.
• Visitors purchasing day passes will be encouraged to pay by credit card using the website or by a etransfer to info@fernienordic.com We intend to minimize cash transactions whenever possible.
• Staff and volunteers will be instructed to wear masks when interacting with members or visitors if 2 m physical distancing is not possible or if in enclosed spaces.
• Staff will perform additional cleaning duties on the kiosks.
• Skiers will find hand sanitizer and signage on how to use it at the kiosks.

Elk Valley Nordic Centre Hut

The following safety precautions will be implemented in the EVNC Hut:
• The hut will be open to a maximum of 12 people while an ambassador is on duty
• Everyone (age 5+) must wear a mask and be fully vaccinated when entering the hut
• No hut rentals at this time (19 Dec 2021)
• The hut will be available to staff and Ambassadors when on duty, and for emergencies.

Portapotties

Hand sanitizer will be available at the portapotties of the Golf Course and Nordic Centre parking lots.

COVID-19 Agreements

For all individuals and activities, if you choose to participate you must follow these rules:

  • Complete the COVID Self Assessment before arriving at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre or Fernie Golf Club.
  • Abide by Clubhouse rules when at the Fernie Golf Course.
  • Sanitize your hands before participating.
  • Bring your own equipment, water bottle and hand sanitizer.
  • Comply with physical distancing measures at all times.
  • Avoid physical contact with others, including shaking hands, high fives, etc.
  • Be careful to avoid overcrowding areas such as parking lots, kiosks, trail junctions, elsewhere on the trail system, etc.

COVID-19 Self-Assessment

Everyone who comes to the nordic ski areas should complete the Self-Assessment below by answering these questions on a daily basis when participating in any activities at the Club.

1. Are you experiencing cold, flu or COVID-19-like symptoms, even mild ones?

• Symptoms include: fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat and painful swallowing, stuffy or runny nose, loss of sense of smell, headache, muscle aches, fatigue or loss of appetite.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please stay home and get assessed for a COVID-19 test. Call 811 for more information.

2. Have you travelled to, or are you living with someone who has travelled to, any countries outside Canada (including the United States) within the last 14 days?

If you respond yes to this question, please stay home, self-isolate for 14 days and self-monitor.

3. Did you provide care or have close contact with a person with a confirmed case of COVID-19?

If you respond yes to this question, please stay home, self-isolate for 14 days and self-monitor.

COVID-19 Refund / Credit Policies – FOR THE 2020-2021 SEASON ONLY

Prior to Opening Day

In the sad possibility that the Society is required to shut down prior to opening day due to regional health authority mandated closures, registered members can request to either receive a credit toward their 2021-22 membership fees OR receive a refund for their 2020-21 membership fees, less provincial and national program dues.

After Opening Day

If the Society is required to shut down operations after opening day due to regional health authority mandated closures up to January 15, registered members can request a credit to be used toward the 2021-22 season of 50% of the value of the membership less provincial and national program dues.

If the Society is required to shut down operations between January 15 and February 15 due to regional health authority mandated closures, registered members can request a credit to be used toward the 2021-22 season of 25% of the value of the membership less provincial and national program dues.

For all other considerations, the Club’s standard refund policy will apply: Membership fees are non-refundable except in special circumstances when approved by the FNS Board of Directors.

Still more questions? Please reach out to us. Contact us.