Umanbacken – the survival of the lift
The project ensures the continued operation of Umanbacken through necessary maintenance of the lift to preserve an important meeting place for children and young people in Storuman.
Purpose and goals
The purpose of the project is:
to ensure continued operation of Umanbacken's ski facility through a technical investment in the lift, so that children, youth, and families continue to have access to local skiing, outdoor activities, and a safe meeting place at home.
The goal of the project is:
The goal of the project is to complete a technical renovation of the lift in Umanbacken in the form of installing new adjustable roller batteries at the lift's turning station as well as shortening the cable and renovating the station and mast batteries.
About the project
The project aims to ensure continued operation of Umanbacken in Storuman through necessary maintenance of the nearly 60-year-old ski lift. The investment is crucial for preserving an important meeting place that contributes to physical activity, mental well-being, and social community in the area.
Umanbacken plays a central role for children and youth who during the winter months have the opportunity to ski and snowboard several days a week. Without measures, the lift risks being taken out of operation, which would mean that the nearest alternative slope is about 13 miles away – a significant limitation for both recreational activities and schools' outdoor programs.
The project contributes to strengthening an active and inclusive leisure where more, regardless of background, have the opportunity to participate. In combination with Storuman municipality's investment in the Leisure Bank, better conditions are created for more children and youth to try skiing and other winter activities without high costs.
Umanbacken is also an important social meeting place for the entire community, where associations, volunteers, and the local café contribute to community and well-being. By securing the facility's future, the tourism industry and the area's attractiveness as a residential and tourist destination are also strengthened.
From the Project Application
”We want to preserve and strengthen the meeting place that exists and that contributes to both physical and mental well-being as
outdoor stays and physical activities contribute to.”
About the project
Project period
2026-03-13 – 2026-03-19
Project owner
Storuman's local branch of the Outdoor Promotion Association
Project Manager
Patrik Nilsson
patnil73@gmail.com
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About financing
Granted project support
132,607 kronor
Own private financing
56,831 kronor
Total financing
189,438 kronor
In addition to the above, the project estimates to contribute with volunteer engagement worth approximately 40,800 SEK.
Incoming EU funds have been granted from:
Agricultural Fund
LAG board's decision justification
The LAG board decided to prioritize the project as it is assessed to contribute to making
Storuman a more attractive and sustainable residential area. Umanbacken is a
well-established meeting place for children, youth, and families in the area and has a
significant symbolic value for local community and public health. The investment in the lift
is crucial for the facility to continue to thrive and offer
skiing activities, outdoor days, and social activities at home.
The project is assessed to strengthen both leisure, school, and tourism through a clear
tripartite partnership between volunteers, schools, and local businesses.