December 1, 2008
Wagner Custom makes about 500 sets annually of custom-built skis and snowboards in a recycled gas station in
Placerville, Colo., about 10 miles downstream from the resort town of Telluride.
Sited at 8,200 feet elevation, the factory gets about 6 feet (2 meters) of snow each winter.
Nonetheless, 192 square feet (58 square meters) of water- heating collectors provide 100 percent of hot water needs and space heating via hydronic tubing in the concrete floor.
Owner Pete Wagner buys wind energy for electrical needs. The factory builds skis using hardwood cores. Waste wood is bagged and sold for kindling. Sawdust is recycled as kennel bedding for the local animal shelter.
Learn more about Wagner Custom Skis.