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Snow gods still blessing Mt. Ashland Levels could set a record -- but hey, how about a little sun? BY KATHY MORGAN The snowpack at Mount Ashland just keeps getting deeper. The stake at the top of the mountain measured 230 inches on Friday. And at the base it's a whopping 145 inches deep. The ski area got 5 to 6 inches of new snow on Saturday. And snow is expected today. "We have record snowfall for this time of year," said Jeff Hanson, assistant general manager of Ski Ashland. "It's the most we've ever had in February." And if it keeps snowing, chances are pretty good that this will be a record-breaking year on all counts. "The 1983-84 season holds the honors for most snow right now," Hanson said. In April 1984, the end of the season, the base was 160 to 170 inches. But Hanson cautions that their measurements aren't official. "The measuring stakes and ski trails have moved during our 30 years of operations. So the record keeping isn't consistent. But it's close." One thing he is sure of is that if the snow keeps piling up, the 1998-99 season will be a record. Officially. "We never thought we'd be hoping for less snowfall," he said. "We need a couple of sunny days." Throughout the Pacific Northwest, record snowfall has led to concern about avalanches. "Mount Ashland isn't a real danger area for that," Hanson said. "We have a very small avalanche area near the top, but we keep it under control." People who ski within the boundaries should have no worries. "Those who are venturing out of bounds should know their stuff," Hanson said. "It can be dangerous." Other than that, Hanson said not to worry. Enjoy the snow and "think sunshine." Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA