Brookvale ski park aiming for earlier opening this season

Officials with the Brookvale Provincial Ski Park say some new equipment will hopefully allow the park to open a little earlier this year.

They've purchased a snow-making pump and athird snow gun, which makes and shoots snow over hills.

"The earlier that we can make snow and the earlier that we can get open, people tend to commit to the season a little bit quicker," said Erin Curley, assistant superintendent with Brookvale.

"We are thrilled to be able to have this," she said. "A lot of hills in the area are opening before Christmas, that's their goal, and we'd like to be matching them as well."

Curley said they hope to be open for December 19, but the weather will play a factor, even with the new equipment.

She said it should also help keep more consistent conditions at the ski park throughout the season.

As well, new helmet rules will be in place this year for all downhill skiers and snowboarders, and 300 new helmets have been purchased for rentals.

The ski park's annual open house takes place on Sunday, December 13 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Alpine Lodge.