Blackbird Mountain Guides Fined Over $150K for Castle Peak Avalanche Incident

California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has imposed fines totaling $151,300 on Blackbird Mountain Guides (BMG) due to their involvement in a fatal avalanche at Castle Peak on February 17, 2026, which claimed nine lives.

The penalties include an $81,000 fine for not addressing the imminent hazards of traveling in avalanche terrain rated as high danger, and an additional $16,200 for failing to adequately assess avalanche risks. These fines were part of a broader investigation that identified seven violations, including general workplace safety issues.

In response to the fines, BMG asserted that the citations do not accurately represent their safety practices and compliance with industry standards. A former guide from the company expressed concerns about the investigation, claiming that Cal/OSHA officials lacked expertise in avalanche safety. Additionally, a criminal investigation by the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office is ongoing, with no charges filed yet.