Bogus Basin Pioneers Snow Preservation to Combat Warm Winters

This winter has been characterized by unusual weather patterns across the Western United States, leading to limited natural snowfall and unseasonably warm temperatures. These conditions have prevented many ski areas from utilizing traditional snowmaking machines, which require freezing temperatures to operate.

The multi-billion dollar winter sports industry has faced significant challenges, with some lower-elevation ski resorts closing or delaying openings, severely impacting financial performance. Others have been forced to limit available runs, further straining operations.

'Project X': An Experimental Solution Takes Shape

Bogus Basin Recreation Area, near Boise, Idaho, implemented an experimental solution to these challenges. Last year, the resort created a substantial pile of snow, referred to as 'Project X,' and covered it with blankets made from polystyrene plastic. These specialized blankets, supplied by Finnish company SnowSecure, are designed to prevent snow from melting during warmer months.

The Preservation Process

The process involved interlocking eight-foot panels with Velcro and straps, starting from the uphill side of the snow pile and working downwards. Once fully covered, the pile was then wrapped in white plastic to further insulate it from warm air and ensure maximum preservation.

Successful Retention and Early Opening

Following a summer where temperatures in Bogus Basin reached 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, approximately 80 percent of the stored snow remained when uncovered in October. This densely packed but usable snow was then spread by snowmaking crews using specialized tractors to prepare the initial ski hill.

"This conserved snow allowed Bogus Basin to open its first small ski hill before any natural snowfall occurred."

A Cost-Effective 'Insurance Policy'

Austin Smith, Bogus Basin's innovation director, reported the initial kit cost about $120,000. He noted this was considerably less expensive than the alternative of constructing another retention pond for snowmaking, an endeavor estimated at $6 to $7 million.

Smith views the blankets as an 'insurance policy' or 'weatherproofing' against seasons with insufficient natural snow and warm temperatures that impede snowmaking.

Future Expansion and Industry Role

Antti Lauslahti, CEO of SnowSecure, clarified that the polystyrene panels serve as one tool among many for ski resorts, rather than a complete replacement for snowmaking or natural snowfall. Bogus Basin plans to expand this initiative, with an expected expenditure of around $600,000 for additional blankets. The resort aims to open an entire ski trail by Thanksgiving, even in the absence of natural snowfall.