OXFORD, Maine — Although Tuesday's snowfall may have brought a small sigh of relief, local businesses that rely on winter activities have had a rough season so far.
With a notably dry winter, ski areas, snow plow operators, and even breweries in Maine are feeling the impact on their bottom line.
Pineland Farms, unlike some ski resorts that can produce artificial snow, depends on natural snowfall for their ski trails.
"It's hurting us for sure," Matt Sabasteanski, outdoor recreation director at Pineland Farms, said. "People are a little bit less interested in buying a season pass when they're not sure how many times they will get to use it," he said.
Sabasteanski said the farm only had 50 good days of ski conditions last year and he fears this year's season could be even shorter.
Oxbow Beer Garden in Oxford shared the disappointment of being unable to capitalize on their 20 kilometers of cross-country ski trails.
When they decided to open this location, the winter profit from these trails was a significant part of their vision.
"It takes on a magical feeling in the winter when the snow is falling, and you can sit outside in the garden, with the fire pits and the lights, and enjoy the company," Jesse Hill, the property manager, said.
Unfortunately, this magical feeling remains elusive this winter as businesses grapple with the challenges posed by the dry winter.