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What is Snow Farming?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

The term “snow farming” is used to refer to the management of snow supplies and reserves. Snow farming is practiced by many ski resorts in the interest of keeping their slopes well-stocked with snow to attract visitors. It also is used by some governments to control drifting, keep roads clear or maintain water reserves in the form of snow. Individuals might also engage in snow farming with the goal of keeping their driveways free of snow or keeping their gardens in optimal condition during snowy weather.

The farming of snow can be accomplished in several ways, depending on the desired outcome of the farming and the resources available to the people doing the farming. At its most basic, snow farming simply involves moving snow around with the assistance of heavy equipment, depositing snow supplies in some areas and removing unwanted snow from others. The tools used to farm snow can be as basic as a snow shovel or as advanced as motorized snow blowers, snow plows or snow groomers.

Storage

Snow blowers may be used to farm snow.
Snow blowers may be used to farm snow.

Snow also can be transferred to areas used for storing it, in which case it typically is covered to slow the rate at which it melts. Many ski resorts practice this form of snow farming with the goal of reducing the amount of artificial snow that they will need to create. These snow reserves can last for an extended period of time when well-covered, making less work for the snow machines.

Snow farming is employed at ski areas for the sake of keeping hills well-covered with snow to attract visitors.
Snow farming is employed at ski areas for the sake of keeping hills well-covered with snow to attract visitors.

Walls and barriers that are used in snow farming are often designed to collect the falling or blowing snow. These same barriers can also be used to keep snow out of particular areas, such as roadways and gardens. By establishing a snow fence, snow farmers can allow the snow to collect along the fence. The snow is easier to gather and move when it clumps around an obstacle.

Ski Resorts

Ski resorts commonly use snow farming to provide consistent levels of snow.
Ski resorts commonly use snow farming to provide consistent levels of snow.

Snow farming might also involve manufacturing snow through the use of snow machines. This practice is common at ski resorts, where people often want to ski even when little or no snow has fallen and where high-quality snow is demanded by discerning visitors. During periods of light snowfall, snow machines can increase the amount of snow on the ground. Resorts often run the machines before sunrise so that there is a layer of fresh powder on the slopes when skiers arrive in the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is snow farming and how does it work?

Snow farming involves collecting and storing natural snow during the winter months to preserve it for use in later seasons, typically for ski resorts. This is achieved by piling snow in insulated areas or covering it with reflective materials to minimize melting. The stored snow is then spread over ski slopes to extend the skiing season.

Why is snow farming important for ski resorts?

Snow farming is crucial for ski resorts because it ensures a consistent and reliable snow base, which can be particularly important in the face of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. By using stored snow, resorts can open earlier, close later, and maintain good skiing conditions throughout the season, which is vital for their economic stability.

What materials are used to cover and preserve the snow?

To preserve the snow, materials such as sawdust, wood chips, or specially designed white geotextile blankets are used. These coverings reflect sunlight and provide insulation, reducing the rate of melt. According to research, such methods can reduce snowmelt by up to 60%, ensuring a significant amount of snow is retained for future use.

Is snow farming environmentally friendly?

Snow farming is considered an environmentally friendly practice as it primarily uses natural snow and reduces the need for artificial snowmaking, which can be energy-intensive and water-consuming. By maximizing the use of natural resources and minimizing waste, snow farming can be part of a sustainable approach to ski resort management.

Can snow farming be used in regions outside of ski resorts?

While snow farming is most commonly associated with ski resorts, it can also be applied in other regions for purposes such as preserving water sources or maintaining cooler local temperatures. Communities in alpine regions sometimes use similar techniques to protect against springtime floods caused by rapid snowmelt.

How cost-effective is snow farming compared to artificial snowmaking?

Snow farming can be more cost-effective than artificial snowmaking as it relies on preserving existing snow rather than producing new snow, which requires significant energy and water resources. The initial investment in insulation materials can be offset by the reduced operational costs and extended ski seasons that snow farming facilitates.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • Snow blowers may be used to farm snow.
      By: Vladimir Badaev
      Snow blowers may be used to farm snow.
    • Snow farming is employed at ski areas for the sake of keeping hills well-covered with snow to attract visitors.
      By: rcaucino
      Snow farming is employed at ski areas for the sake of keeping hills well-covered with snow to attract visitors.
    • Ski resorts commonly use snow farming to provide consistent levels of snow.
      By: camerawithlegs
      Ski resorts commonly use snow farming to provide consistent levels of snow.