November 16, 2018; Not really a Grooming Report
Forestville Real Grooming Report: We are now into 5 days of skiing on the roller packed Noque to 17k, Animoosh, Papasay, Boozhoo, Zhing, and the stadium. Continued cool weather and the 6 day cold forecast will keep the trails in good shape. The surface is uneven but coverage is very good.
Our call for feedback produced even more comments. Vivian went to Swede Town Trails and sent a picture. It looked quite good although the Swedetown Trails web site calls conditions only fair to good but all trails open with classic tracks.
Way Too Long Grooming Report: Early season conditions offer many things required of the human spirit. I like the aspect of knowing things will get better. The great grooming report writer Eleanor Porter’s most famous character could always find something good about even the worst conditions. Remember, you are talking to one that feels I have 50% too much glass rather than analyzing the fullness or emptiness. Think back: whether it is surfing or skiing or any other weather condition dependent sport; have you ever said, “boy, I wish I hadn’t bothered to go out”? Not Pollyanna.
Another aspect we enjoy is the ability to second guess. I am reminded of the Dodgers’ loss in game four of this year’s Series. If they had left the starter in and lost people would have second guessed that too. What a great thing! As one who has been in the (ski wax) smoke filled rooms, grooming decisions are agonizing. I am all for a good debate but urge all participants to understand and perceive before judging.
Often times, not grooming is the best and most difficult decision. Our crack grooming staff was poised at the ready and quickly roll packed the instant there was enough snow. Getting the snow compacted not only allows us diehards to ski but also drives the frost into the ground. Snow is a great insulator and left un-packed, we would likely still have soft ground. Now, with a week (and soon 2 weeks) of cold weather we not only have a hard base but also hard ground. Running the grooming equipment on this fragile base can break it into an un-skiable surface. As one who is now relegated to the broadcast booth, I enjoy knowing we have the best in the business making these decisions. Give them and “atta boy” and know, it will get better.
See you out there.
Sondo
PS: Skiers are reminded to wear orange and to respect hunters. And, hunters are reminded not to shoot skiers with orange hats. No grooming can take place during the day until December 1st to keep the woods quiet during fire arm deer season. For extra credit, what year did we get the blaze orange Noque’ hats?