(Portland, Ore., August 31, 2026) — U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Oregon State Director Jim Carmack today announced that Anthony Lakes Outdoor Recreation Association (ALORA) will receive a $650,000 loan to build a new rental shop to support the ski programs and local economy of the Anthony Lakes recreation area.
“This investment is more than a loan for a historic recreation area; it’s a one part of a whole to strengthen both local opportunity and Oregon’s outdoor recreation economy,” said Carmack. “USDA is pleased to partner in this project and ensure this community landmark continues to serve residents and visitors for long into the future.”
This project is funded through USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program (REDLG) in partnership with Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative (OTEC). 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 ALORA. Currently, programs, rentals, and repairs operate out of a 70-year-old structure that must be replaced. This investment along with funds from additional community contributors and donations will replace the old building with a new two-story facility capable of holding retail space, the repair shop, and seasonal staff accommodations. With these improvements, ALORA expects to serve tourists and locals more efficiently and safely. The total project cost is $1.8 million.
“ALORA is proud to partner with OTEC and USDA through the Rural Economic Development Loan program to make this new rental shop facility possible,” said Anthony Lakes Outdoor Recreation Association Marketing Director Chelsea Judy. “This project is much more than a new building, it is an investment in the future of outdoor recreation in our region. This updated facility will allow us to better serve our guests, create more opportunities for youth to learn and participate in outdoor recreation, and strengthen the overall experience at Anthony Lakes. We are grateful for both OTEC and the USDA’s partnership and investment in our rural community, and we look forward to seeing the lasting impact this project will have for generations to come.”
Through the REDLG program, USDA provides zero interest loans to local utilities such as OTEC, which they, in turn, pass through to local businesses for projects that will create and retain employment in rural areas.
For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making agency investment data accessible to the public. Subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates or follow us at @RD_Oregon.