We have this huge network of pipelines all over this entire mountain. We have air and water hydrants on all the different trails that we make snow on. Some are land guns that you pull up onto the trail with long hoses. In the last two years, we've installed a lot of tall tower mounts that enhance the skiing experience by lofting the snow from 20 to 30 feet above you as you're skiing down the trail. Keeping in contact with walkie-talkies, snowmaking crews travel on snowmobiles, grooming cats, lifts, skis, snowboards and feet.
Personnel face the occupational hazard of prolonged exposure to the elements.
The job is very, very strenuous, very physical, a lot of walking, lifting, carrying things, walking through snow knee-deep and being outside for extensive lengths of time. You need to be properly dressed. It's like being in a continuous snowstorm all the time. The profession definitely isn't for everyone, but for LaCombe, it is both spectacular and rewarding. You see the northern lights.