Kootenay ski resort operators gear up for uncertainty during this winter's season

British Columbia's famed ski resorts and lodges are taking a close look at how summer tourist operators are faring as theyprepare their own pandemic survival strategies for theupcoming winter season.

The province's ski sector brings in over $1.4 billion every season, according to a 2014 Destination B.C. study funded by theMinistry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations.

From closed borders to measures to preventthe spread of the virus,the impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic will alter how ski operations run this season.

Andrew Kyle, owner ofWhitewater Ski Resort in Nelson, B.C., says they will re-open with more physical distancing and mask protocols in place in indoor spaces.

"People are going to see a way different kind of controls in the inside spaces, but other than that, people will still be able to ski and enjoy the outdoors," Kyle said.

Whistler Blackcomb is taking a similar approach.The U.S.-based company that owns the popular ski resortsays anyone hoping to hit theslopes duringthe COVID-19 pandemicwill have to reserve in advance, and accessto the mountain will not be granted without some kind of face covering.

Kyle says another challenge for his resorts and others will be getting seasonal workers. Much ofthe industry relies on foreign workers primarily those from the U.K. or Australia which will be limited due tointernational travel restrictions.Resorts in Alberta are already actively recruiting locals to fill up these positions.

Many operations are also looking to locals to fill the gap left by alack of international travellers as borders are expected to remain closed.

Phil Pinfold, who runs abackcountry helicopter ski operation calledRetallack Lodge between Kaslo and New Denver with co-ownerChris McNamara, is hoping to do just that.

"We're in a lucky spot here, that we have a huge Canadian base to begin with, so I absolutely think there's an opportunity to fill our operation with just Canadian clients," said Pinfold.

The duo hascome up withpandemic preventionkits containinga mask and hand sanitizer for all guests. They also tested physicaldistancingprotocols at their lodge with mountain bikers this summer.

But for other helicopter and snowcat skiing operators in the Kootenays, who rely on up to 95 per cent foreign clientele for their business, it's shaping up to be a difficult season.

Salina Riemeris with Canadian Mountain Holidays,which operates 12 heli-skiing lodges and relies heavily on international travel for their revenue.

Riemer says they are planning as best as they can.

"If Europe opens, that is a huge part of our customer base," she said. "And we're hoping to get a lot more Canadians".

As winter approaches, Whitewater's Kyle offers a pragmatic response in the face ofpandemic uncertainty.

"Everyone will have to deal with it."