Sun Peaks leads the way in snow farming with Finnish technology
Snow blankets have shown success in snow retention across Canada, but how do they function, and why were the outcomes different in each region?
Sun Peaks Resort in British Columbia has become the first in Canada to implement Finnish snow farming technology, Snow Secure, in its efforts to ensure an early and reliable ski season. As skiers eagerly await winter conditions, Sun Peaks is using innovative methods to retain snow through the warmer months.
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This past spring, the resort built three substantial snow caches on Tod Mountain, each containing around 17,000 cubic metres of snow.
Sun Peaks Resort
These were insulated with specialized blankets, resulting in an 80–85% snow retention rate, despite the summer’s heat. This retention is notably higher than similar trials in Eastern Canada, where figures hovered closer to 60%.
The difference lies in several factors. The dry air of the Thompson Plateau limits heat transfer that would otherwise occur in humid conditions. Additionally, the interior region saw fewer rain events, which can seep into snow piles and accelerate melting. Finally, Sun Peaks’ elevation over 1,200 metres allows for cool overnight conditions, which help preserve snowpacks. In contrast, eastern regions often endure warm, muggy nights.
Aerial view of the Sun Peaks snow storage project | Sun Peaks Resort
This initiative is part of Sun Peaks’ $5.5 million, six-year snowmaking enhancement plan, including infrastructure upgrades, improved weather monitoring systems, and new tower snow guns. While El Niño may pose challenges to snowfall this winter, Sun Peaks is proactively investing in long-term solutions to extend its ski season.