Forecast Good For Ski Shops

The drought put a damper on the ski season last year and the year before that.

But the forecast calls for up to 3 feet of snow in the highest parts of Mammoth and other Sierra ski areas. If the snowfall pans out, Joani Lynch of Mammoth Mountain Ski Area said plans are in the works to open every run by next week.

Just talking about snow increases foot traffic at Mountain Air Sports on State Street in Santa Barbara.

Employees have been preparing the store for an influx of business once snow was in the forecasts.

The rental shop is full of tuned-up skies ready for pickup.

Customers are also shopping for new equipment and warm clothing.

Joey Dudridge , the general manager, said everyone is fired up.

He said some stores didn’t survive the drought. Maintain Air Sports relied on loyal customers.

Many customers will be heading to the Sierras.

They hope ski areas closer to home such as Big Bear will get snow and cooler temperatures to keep man-made snow on the slopes.