Sun Peaks Resort in British Columbia has invested around CAD$170,000 in 18 massive insulated mats designed to preserve snow throughout the summer months to be reused when they open back up in the fall.
Castanet reports the mats are made by the Finnish company Snow Secure and although widely adopted in Europe, Sun Peaks is the first resort in Canada to use them. Sun Peaks hopes to preserve 14,000 cubic meters of snow on its OSV ski trail which they will uncover and spread on the race center course.
Sun Peaks says up to 90% of the snow will be preserved when it’s uncovered next November, and if all goes to plan, it will be enough to cover 8 acres of the slope with 2 feet of snow.
About Snow Secure snow farming and snow storage:
Snow farming and snow storages have become essential for ski resorts to guarantee a consistent and high-quality snow supply in the face of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. This post explores the process of snow farming, its benefits for ski resorts, and highlights how Snow Secure’s patented technology provides a superior solution for snow storages.
How Snow Farming Works
Snow farming is a sustainable practice that involves collecting and storing snow from the end of one ski season to be used at the beginning of the next. The process typically involves the following steps:
- Snow Collection: At the end of the ski season, large piles of snow are gathered using snow groomers.
- Insulation: These piles are then covered with a thick layer of insulating material to protect the snow from summer heat and minimize melting. Traditional methods have used materials like sawdust or wood chips, while more advanced solutions like Snow Secure utilize specialized insulation materials like Finnfoam.
- Snow Spreading: When the next ski season approaches, the insulation is removed, and the preserved snow is spread onto the slopes using snow groomers, ensuring a reliable base for skiers and snowboarders.
Benefits of Snow Farming for Ski Resorts
Snow farming offers significant advantages for ski resorts, including:
- Guaranteed Season Start: By having a reserve of snow, ski resorts can confidently set and announce their opening dates well in advance, regardless of early winter weather conditions. This provides certainty for both the resort’s operations and the local economy, allowing tourists to book their trips in advance and businesses to prepare for the influx of visitors.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Snow farming is a more environmentally friendly approach compared to relying solely on artificial snowmaking. It reduces the need for energy-intensive snow production, especially during the shoulder seasons when temperatures may not be ideal for efficient snowmaking. This translates to significant energy savings, with some resorts reporting up to 85% reductions in electricity consumption. Furthermore, it conserves water resources by reusing snow from the previous season, minimizing the need to draw water for snowmaking, which is particularly beneficial in areas with limited water availability.
- Superior Snow Quality: Snow preserved from the previous season retains its quality better than artificially-made snow. It tends to be denser and more resilient, providing a better skiing experience with improved grip and glide.
Snow Secure: A Superior Solution for Snow Storages
Snow Secure offers a cutting-edge, patented snow storage system that surpasses traditional methods, providing superior snow preservation and numerous benefits for ski resorts:
- Scalable and Adaptable: The Snow Secure system is designed to be highly scalable and adaptable to different snow storage needs. Whether it’s a small pile for a cross-country ski trail or a massive storage facility for a World Cup downhill course, the system can be customized to fit the specific requirements of the terrain and desired snow volume.
- Exceptional Snow Retention: Snow Secure prides itself on having the “best snow retaining ratio in the market”. This is achieved through the use of highly effective insulation materials like Finnfoam, which boast exceptional thermal insulation properties, effectively minimizing heat transfer and reducing snow melt during storage. Independent studies have shown that Snow Secure can reduce snow melt to as low as 10-20%, significantly outperforming traditional methods with losses ranging from 30-50%.
- Durability and Longevity: The Snow Secure system is built to last, with durable components designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and repeated use. The insulation mats have an expected lifespan of 10-20 years, ensuring a high return on investment for ski resorts.
- Weather Protection: The system incorporates a patented integrated rain and wind cover system, which provides an additional layer of protection against the elements. This is crucial for minimizing snow loss due to rain, wind erosion, and solar radiation, especially in locations with challenging weather patterns.
- Real-Time Monitoring and Data Insights: Snow Secure goes beyond traditional snow storage methods by incorporating 24/7 temperature monitoring technology. Sensors embedded within the snow storage structure collect real-time data on temperature fluctuations, providing valuable insights into the conditions inside the snow pile. This data allows ski resort operators to proactively manage their snow storage, optimize insulation, and anticipate any potential issues before they arise. This data-driven approach ensures the highest level of snow preservation and helps optimize the overall efficiency of the snow farming operation.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in a Snow Secure system might seem significant, its long-term cost-effectiveness is undeniable. By drastically reducing snowmelt and the need for artificial snowmaking, resorts experience substantial savings on energy, water, and labor costs over time. Moreover, the system’s durability and longevity translate to lower maintenance and replacement expenses in the long run.
