Colorado’s snow drought deals a major blow to recreation

Key takeaways

Colorado experienced a significant snow drought this winter with record-high temperatures and low snowpack, severely impacting outdoor recreation and the local economy.
The ski industry has historically adapted to snow variability through technological innovations like snowmaking and industry consolidation, but recent shifts in consumer behavior and corporate ownership raise new challenges.
Mountain communities are increasingly diversifying their economies to reduce dependence on snow and mitigate impacts from future droughts, although social tensions around industry control persist.
The ongoing snow drought highlights the importance of resilience and adaptation strategies for climate-sensitive industries and communities dependent on winter tourism.

Summary

Impact of the Snow Drought on Colorado's Winter and Economy

This section discusses the severity of Colorado's recent winter, characterized by record high temperatures and low snowpack, which has caused significant disruptions. The snow drought has directly affected outdoor recreation industries such as skiing, fishing, and rafting, leading to fishing closures and reduced tourism. The concept of a 'snow hangover' is introduced, signaling delayed responses from tourism-dependent businesses and a potential shift in vacation planning. Local economies, particularly in Aspen, are heavily reliant on snow-based recreation, and the drought prompts businesses to consider diversifying their activities to sustain their livelihoods.

Historical Context and Industry Adaptation to Snow Droughts

Here, Dr. Mike Childers provides historical perspective, referencing past droughts such as the 1976-77 season, which severely impacted Colorado's ski industry. Adaptation strategies discussed include the adoption of snowmaking technology, which helps extend the ski season and mitigate snow variability. Industry consolidation into larger resorts like Vail Resorts, with their multi-resort passes, has been a financial buffer, allowing the industry to survive even poor snowfall seasons. However, recent trends show some decline in pass sales as consumers become more cautious, indicating changing consumer confidence and preferences.

Future Challenges and Community Resilience in Snow-Dependent Towns

This section explores how mountain communities are planning to adapt to increasingly unreliable snow conditions. Diversification into activities like mountain biking is one strategy, aiming to attract tourists year-round. The discussion also highlights social tensions, particularly concerns over corporate ownership of resorts and its implications for local control, labor practices, and community identity. Dr. Childers emphasizes the likelihood of further industry consolidation and economic restructuring, which could reshape the cultural and economic landscape of these towns. The unpredictability of the snow drought underscores the need for proactive adaptation to sustain these communities.

Show notes

Winter in Colorado looked very different this year. Many parts of the state experienced record-high temperatures and record-low snowpack, which had downstream effects on farming, sports, tourism, and more. For those economies and livelihoods that rely on snow, what happens when snow becomes unreliable? And can we prepare for it?

Producer Kathleen Davis speaks with Halle Zander, news director at Aspen Public Radio, about how this is playing out in Aspen. Then, environmental historian Mike Childers talks us through how Colorado’s economies may need to adjust.

Guests:

Halle Zander is the news director at Aspen Public Radio.

Dr. Mike Childers is an associate professor of environmental history at Colorado State University in Fort Collins.

Transcript will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.

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