Taos announced that the resort intends to permit snowboarding after years of allowing only skiers. The first day for snowboards will be March 19, 2008. "It is in the adventurous spirit of Ernie and Rhoda Blake we welcome the challenges and anticipate the opportunities that this decision implies," said a Blake family spokesperson. "While there are many reasons why we have chosen this season to make such a significant change to our company's policy, the foremost factor is we feel simply that it is time." The debate over the past few seasons has been more directed as to "when" rather than "if" snowboarding would be permitted. "It has been the opinion of the Blake Family and mountain management that the timing was critical," the spokesperson continued. "Let us emphasize that this decision is the result of careful planning and consideration."