RANGELEY - Saddleback Ski Resort recently received the Gannett Family Business of the Year Award in the small business category by the Institute for Family-Owned Business.

The Berry family of Farmington, owners of Saddleback since 2003, received the award in part due to the family's commitment to community service and what Saddleback does for the community and its employees, JoAnne Taylor from Saddleback said Thursday.

Bill and Irene Berry of Farmington accepted the award on the family's behalf in June.

The Institute for Family-Owned Businesses is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting family-owned businesses in Maine.

The Gannett Family Business of the Year Award acknowledges the successes and issues associated with running a family business.

Since becoming owners of Saddleback, the Berry family has built a new base lodge, expanded terrain by more than 44 percent, increased snowmaking to more than 85 percent coverage, lengthened and added chairlifts and a beginner/kids area.

Saddleback, a four-season resort, focuses on nonmotorized winter sports, Taylor said.