Warm weather cools business for ski resorts

MARS HILL, NC (AP) — The recent stretch of above average temperatures has shut down all six western North Carolina ski areas in what would normally be the height of ski season.

A November economic value report commissioned by the North Carolina Ski Areas Association showed ski areas contributed $197.2 million to the state’s economy during the 2014-15 season. It also found the region’s ski areas had over 650,000 visits, provided 87 year-round jobs and 1,787 seasonal jobs and generated nearly $40 million in gross revenue from ski area operations.

It’s unclear whether the 2015-16 season will produce these figures.

Association President Kim Jochl says right now it’s tough for the ski industry across North Carolina and the East Coast. For example, Sugar Mountain in Avery County opened for the season Nov. 15 and remained open for only 15 days.

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