Cal/OSHA fines guide company $151K over deadly Sierra avalanche

California workplace safety regulators have levied $151,300 in fines against Blackbird Mountain Guides, the company leading a backcountry skiing trip when a February avalanche killed nine people in the Sierra Nevada — the deadliest such slide in the state's modern history.

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) issued the citations on August 12, citing seven alleged violations. The largest penalty, $81,000, stems from the company's failure to address the imminent hazard of traveling in avalanche terrain when the danger was rated high.

Other alleged violations include inadequate employee training and a failure to promptly report the deaths of three guides to the agency.

The company has filed a formal appeal, asserting it was in full compliance with all regulatory requirements. In a statement, Blackbird Mountain Guides said mountain guiding operates in dynamic wilderness environments, not controlled settings, and welcomed the chance to work with Cal/OSHA to contextualize backcountry realities.

The incident occurred on February 17 when a group of 15 skiers, including guides, attempted to descend from remote huts near Frog Lake in Tahoe National Forest. A powerful winter storm had moved into the region, and the avalanche struck near Castle Peak, trapping the group. Six skiers were rescued after sheltering for hours in blizzard conditions.

The company noted the guides on the trip held years of experience and certifications from the American Mountain Guides Association. Owner Zeb Blais said the guides approached their work with care and professionalism.

Separate investigations continue. Cal/OSHA's Bureau of Investigations is reviewing the deaths for possible criminal charges, and the Nevada County Sheriff's Department has forwarded its findings to the district attorney's office.