New snow-making equipment allows Quebec ski hills to open early

A little more than six weeks ago,Quebec experienced some of its hottestSeptember temperatures on record.

SommetSaint Sauveur'swater park was still in full swing, with swimmers floating by in the winding pool beneaththe ski hill's chairlift pulleys.

On Saturday, however, the slope's landscape looked a little different. Pool water was replaced with a fresh blanket of machine-made snow. The swimmers were gone, succeeded byskiersandsnowboarders zipping down the hills.

The ski season had startedat Saint Sauveurin Quebec's Laurentians.

Seizing an opportunity

Though Nov. 11 may seem early, the cold weather of the last few days has presented an opportunity for ski hillsto get a head start in the struggling industry.

• Quebec ski hills 'always adapting' when it comes to winter weather

Warmer winters caused by climate change, plus a shiftin precipitation patterns, has pushed several resorts to invest in new snow-making equipment that can work in higher temperatures.

But to be able to invest, they need to sell lift tickets, said Yves Juneau, the president of Quebec's association of ski hills (ASSQ).

Ski hills have found themselves competing against other activities, such as video games, that appeal to today's kids, Juneau added.

New equipment to help ski hills' resiliency

"This year, we're seeing a lot of investing [in snow-making equipment] at ski hills everywhereacross Quebec, and that's why we're able to ski on a Nov. 11 like today," Juneau said.

Saint Sauveurinstalled more than 60 new snow machines, according toSimonPag,SommetSaintSauveur'scustomer experience director.

"It's going to allow us to expand our use of the hill faster this season," Pagsaid.

Though the province's hills experienced one of the worst ski seasons in decadesin 2015-16, due to warmer temperatures thatcausedseveral hills to close early, they reportedmuch better conditions last winter.

• Quebec ski hills enjoy 'amazing conditions' after blast of winter

Juneau saidthey're hoping for the best again this year, but the more-powerful machines will help soften the blow if poor weather comes their way.