Even in June, Utahns across the state are reminded of the record-breaking snowfall from the winter season as that snow turns into high runoff levels. But how did the unprecedented snowpack impact Utah's skiing industry?
From a banner financial year for the industry, to the longest season ever for some resorts, here are some statistics that show just how unprecedented this winter was.
UDOT recorded 550 avalanches in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons this year — 98 of them crossed the road, and 62 of those were big enough to bury a vehicle.
At 903 inches, Alta recorded more snow than any other resort, and 12 of the state’s 15 ski areas had more snow than ever.
Utah’s statewide snow water equivalent — essentially the moisture in the snowpack — peaked at 30 inches in early April, surpassing the decadeslong record of 26 inches.
Data is still preliminary, but Ski Utah expects to report 7.1 million skier visits during the season, and those skiers spent $2.54 billion.
While speaking at the Kem C. Gardner Institute this week, Utah Rep. John Curtis spoke about the United States' one great advantage amid today's tense international relations.
“You still cannot go anywhere in the world that doesn’t want to be like the United States,” Curtis said Friday. “That’s what we need to figure out how to hang onto, and if we can hang onto that, we can hang onto our place in the world.”
The event mainly focused on tensions between China and Taiwan, providing an opportunity for Curtis to express his belief that the United States is going about its relations with mainland China the wrong way.
“We have got to figure out how to show strength without getting China defensive or offensive,” he said. “And quite frankly, we’re on the wrong trajectory.”
Read more about Curtis' thoughts on the U.S. and China.
FROM OUR SPONSOR BYU RELIGIOUS FREEDOM ANNUAL REVIEW
Religious Freedom Annual Review: "Religious Communities: Worshipping, Serving, and Learning Together,” Thursday, June 15, 2023
With fewer people affiliated with traditional religious communities, what are the implications for religious freedom? What is driving the departure, and, how can the religiously affiliated be true to our beliefs and more welcoming? Join us to learn about the challenges and opportunities. Learn more.
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