0% water consumption in snowmaking - conserving resources and increasing profits

Knowledge of the snow conditions on the slopes not only enables optimal positioning of snow guns but also targeted snow distribution by snow groomers. This reduces the amount of snow that needs to be produced and even has a positive effect on snowmelt – the snow melts evenly and therefore faster. This allows the grass to recover and grow earlier in the spring. With precisely planned snow production and snow distribution, the OBERSTDORF · KLEINWALSERTAL BERGBAHNEN not only saves energy but also water from the reservoirs. This means no water is wasted in snowmaking!

A tourism destination needs smart solutions for optimal efficiency in winter slope management. With the Leica iCon alpine 3D snow depth measurement system, the OBERSTDORF · KLEINWALSERTAL BERGBAHNEN are implementing a master plan for the daily challenges of snowmaking and slope preparation. Three advantages at a glance that benefit the environment with state-of-the-art technology:

Snow reliability and slope quality

Snow depth measurement is based on a global navigation satellite system (GNSS). This determines the current snow depth from the difference between the height of the snow groomer and the ground and displays the data in real time and with a 3D image directly on the displays in the driver's cab. The slope team can thus react precisely to excess snow or weak spots and position the snow groomers and snow guns at the right time. Systematic analysis and evaluation not only ensures the quality of the slopes but also guarantees planning reliability for the start of winter, as well as vehicle hours and employee deployment times.

Environmental protection

Efficient distribution and grooming protects the underlying meadows. The turf is thus sustainably protected during skiing. This ensures that the slopes shine in summer with fresh, lush, and, above all, flowering meadows where the cows graze. This is how modern piste management works at the OBERSTDORF · KLEINWALSERTAL BERGBAHNEN.

The perfect slope - listen now

What actually happens at night in a ski resort to ensure the slopes are perfectly groomed every morning? Our deputy outdoor area manager of the Ifenbahn, Christian Kocher, answers these questions in the Bergwelten podcast.