“It’s harder for people”

The lack of snow in ski areas isn’t just bad news for skiers; It can also negatively affect the nutritional stability of seasonal workers.

What is happening?

The mild winter has led to ski resorts delaying their opening for the season, while others have faced major damage, such as the collapse of ski lifts, due to melting snow.

While skiing may be an activity exclusively for the wealthy, quiet ski resorts have a direct impact on working-class Americans.

the Steamship Pilot and Today It found that many seasonal workers in ski towns struggled to make ends meet and had to rely on food banks this winter.

The lack of snowfall, combined with the government shutdown’s impact on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, meant that reliance on food assistance was 30% higher in November than in October.

“A lack of snow can lead to a lack of food on the table, because people aren’t getting their hours worked,” says Sue Fegelein, executive director of the local nonprofit LiftUp of Routt County. He said. “Some people depend on snow for their profession.”

Why is this mild winter a cause for concern?

Besides putting the income of seasonal workers at risk, warm winters pose problems for people around the world.

Last year was notable for the United States The fourth hottest year on recordaccording to Climate Central, highlighting a worrying trend of rising temperatures.

As temperatures rise, the planet becomes more at risk from drought, wildfires, heat waves, and more Severe weather. These events can endanger people’s lives and destroy infrastructure.

Although these climate events have been happening forever, the impact of human damage on the planet is amplified by these events, making life more dangerous for communities.

What is being done about rising temperatures in ski towns?

Fortunately, charities and food banks are stepping up their efforts to prevent people from going hungry. However, the root reason why seasonal workers end up in poverty and food insecurity is much deeper.

“What we see in all mountain communities is that as the cost of living rises, it becomes more difficult for people to get their paychecks to last until their next paycheck,” Monica Bollig, chief impact officer at Food Bank of the Rockies, said. He said.

Some skaters hope so Snow-free ski resorts It can develop further, making the profession more sustainable throughout the year.

If you can, Talk to friends and family About the climate and making more sustainable lifestyle choices to help protect against rising temperatures. Campaigning or voting for systemic change can help make the world cleaner and safer for future generations.

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