The prelude to a ski season is pure drama- marked by a palpable sense of anticipation-which can quickly give way to frustration. Resort operators and staff are eager to get to work, skiers and snowboarders pine for fresh fields of white, the state waits for the surge in tourist traffic, everyone looks to receive a dividend on the season’s shortened days and brisk winds.

Mother nature doesn’t seem to care what we think about the situation and all too often gets stingy with the snowfall.  When the situation gets tense, there’s no need to panic…Just call the Snowmaker.

Forget all the glam jobs surrounding the ski hill. These are the real stars of the ski industry, particularly in the Midwest.  They break out their bag of tricks so you can work on yours all season long.  Hopefully over the next few weeks we can provide a little more insight into exactly what is involved in the Midwest’s best snowmaking operation. Until then, enjoy the drama.

“Slope Fiction”

Overheard at BOYNE offices last weekend.

The Snowmaker: That’s 30 minutes away.  I’ll be there in 10.

Nine minutes, 37 seconds later…

The Snowmaker:  This is your resort? I’m Wolf Newman.  I solve problems.
The Snowmaker:  You must be Ed, which would make you Wes. Let's get down to brass tacks, gentlemen. If I was informed correctly, the clock is ticking, is that right?
Resort staff: Uh, one hundred percent.
The Snowmaker: Your skiers and snowboarders are expected this weekend, is that right?
Resort staff: Uh-huh.
The Snowmaker: I was led to believe that if they come here and find a bare hill, they wouldn't appreciate it none too much?
Resort staff: [laughing] They wouldn't at that.
The Snowmaker: That gives us exactly... five days to get this hill tip top. Which, if you do what I say when I say it, should be plenty. Now you have hill that is bare and an extensive network of low-e snowmaking equipment. Bring me to it.

The snowmaking crew is hard at work and conditions are setting up favorably…get your boards tuned and stay tuned.