Ski resorts are utilizing cutting-edge technology and inventive ways to guarantee that snow sports flourish in spite of the difficulties posed by a warming climate. In an effort to preserve the slopes for years to come, the industry is retaliating with sophisticated snowmaking equipment and extended season options.
Early December brought moderate temperatures and beautiful skies to Utah’s Solitude Mountain Resort, postponing the start of the ski season. However, the ski sector is demonstrating that it is far from in decline, even though natural snowfalls have been less consistent in recent years.
To counteract the effects of climate change, ski resorts throughout the Wasatch Range and beyond are making significant investments in cutting-edge snowmaking technology.
“For the early season, snowmaking is essential,” explains Todd Dohman, Solitude’s slopes maintenance manager. However, traditional approaches have become less efficient due to the arrival of colder temperatures later in the season.
New snowmaking equipment is revolutionizing the game at Park City Mountain. “The new guns are fantastic,” says snowmaking manager Chad Avery.
These devices use sensors to optimize even short periods of favorable conditions, making them more water and energy efficient.
Although resorts with higher elevations or inherently colder winters can have an advantage, the sector as a whole is pushing for sustainability.
In an effort to increase year-round tourism, resorts are also growing their off-season offerings, such as conferences, festivals, and mountain biking.
Although there are now “winners and losers” in snow sports due to climate change, according to economist Lee Parton, technical developments and a wider variety of options ensure that skiing and snowboarding will continue to be popular.
Even while there are still obstacles to overcome, ski resorts’ resolve to adapt shows that snow activities are thriving in a warming world.
