Global warming could devastate snowpack levels in the Rocky Mountain region by 2085 and reduce the viability of the state’s many ski resorts, according to a Colorado College report.
The 2006 Colorado College State of the Rockies Report Card, released this week, cites a climate-trend model that shows that snowpack levels in Colorado could decline by as much as 82 percent in San Miguel County; 57 percent in Eagle County; 54 percent in Grand County; 50 percent in Summit, Routt and Gunnison counties; and 43 percent in Pitkin County.
The annual research project is compiled by students and faculty at the Colorado Springs college.
The report cites Aspen Skiing Co. chief executive Pat O’Donnell as saying that if climate changes shorten the ski season, it’s “going to be an economic disaster” for resorts because they won’t be able to stay open enough days to be profitable.
“It certainly is an issue that is concerning to the entire ski industry,” said Molly Cuffe, spokeswoman for Colorado Ski Country USA. “I don’t think at this point anyone knows what the answer is. But whatever is going to happen is going to happen incrementally over several decades, and the resorts are going to adapt.”
Several Colorado ski resorts experienced record-high snowfall levels this winter, and industry leaders are optimistic that the state could top 12 million skier visits for the first time.
Last winter, Colorado hosted 11.81 million skiers and snowboarders, according to Colorado Ski Country USA.
Staff writer Julie Dunn can be reached at 303-820-1592 or jdunn@denverpost.com.
