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CWSAA: November 2021 Newsletter

Message from the president

CWSAA wishes to acknowledge the many emergency workers and volunteers assisting recovery efforts from the wake of the recent weather systems in southwest BC.  The catastrophic and heart-breaking event has taken life and impacted many communities and thousands of people.

The 2021/22 ski season has commenced at many ski areas with more opening in the coming days and weeks.  On a recent industry call, operating managers reported a positive vibe to the season.  Guests are familiar with the safety protocols and operational adjustments from last year and they are enthusiastic to again be on the slopes. Equally, ski areas are excited to be now operating and welcoming back guests.

Ski areas have the benefit of learning from last ski season, plus two southern hemisphere winters.  Industry has also built upon the confidence of authorities and the proven ability to provide safe service thanks to extraordinary best practices.  This work was lead by a hyper-engaged industry committee, an unreserved sharing of knowledge and protocols among peers, and support and guidance from our health officials and regulators.

The run up to this winter has been different than last winter.  Beyond the experience gained, vaccinations are available as a critical defense in the pandemic, and authorities have increasingly adopted a regionalised approach to health protocols.  In response, ski areas have had to adjust their operations and, as always, ensure full health order compliance.  They have also been able to start to rebuild markets and business capacity.  Communities and businesses alike recognise the many supports that government has provided over the course of the pandemic to assist with relief and recovery, but they are now either gone or being phased out.  As a primary economic driver in many of the communities ski areas serve, the need to be viable and continue to be a source of employment is critical.

Safe operation and adherence to all health orders is a primary focus of industry.  However there are additional challenges that operators are forced to overcome.  A shortage of workers is well documented in the ski sector and many others.  By now, all are also aware of the recent devastating floods and loss in BC.  Ski areas themselves have been mostly spared, but critical infrastructure and transportation routes impact supply lines.  The disruptions are in advance of peak ski travel, however only some highway routes between the BC interior and coast will be available (in some limited fashion) in time for the coming holiday periods.  CWSAA and industry peers are working with government to develop communications strategies utilising the opportunities available to them.  Beyond the structural, our industry recognises the mammoth impact on many lives and livelihoods.

This is the context in which the western Canadian ski industry greeted November 2021.  It is therefore especially gratifying to hear from the first ski areas open this season that guests are returning to the slopes and remain confident and feel safe to pursue outdoor recreation.  As demonstrated last winter, the ski industry reminded itself and perhaps others that it serves both an economic function in our communities, but just as importantly, ski serves a social need by providing safe opportunities for physical and mental wellness.

- Christopher Nicolson

Know Before You Go
Due to the variation in regional protocols, educating guests to ensure they are familiar with local protocols at their intended destination is critical messaging this season.

CWSAA Staff Announcements
Bruno Graziotto to retire.

Instructor Training Bursary
15 Small Ski Areas will receive funding for instructor training.


New Bursary in memory of Rod Chisholm
SROAM bursary provided by AEDARSA.

SROAM Success Stories


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