For over 30 years, Pete's U.S. Forest Service career involved him in ski area business. This was a significant task, when Congress and the Administration did not allow (or tightly regulated) price increases. Pete studied the industry, and convinced the Forest Service Chief to allow industry to charge what they wanted for lift tickets and services as long as the competitive forces were working and there was excess lift capacity. The result, which benefited all Colorado skiers, was increased investment in lifts and services and reduced lift lines. This expanded partnership between the USDA Forest Service and ski areas resulted in a healthier industry and improved on-mountain ski area development.

Other major accomplishments while Pete was a District Ranger, Forest Supervisor, or Regional Director of Recreation included making a 1969 inventory of all potential ski areas in the Rocky Mountain Region and organizing the first National Avalanche School. He is the author of the 1973 book, Planning Considerations for Winter Sports Resort Development, which resulted in the elimination of virtually all complaints about on-mountain ski area development. His 25+ years of ski photography has helped popularize and develop back country skiing all over the world.