The Economic and Social Implications of Snow and Ice

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Abstract
Snow represents both a valuable resource and a menacing natural hazard. Although its economic utility is difficult to evaluate precisely, we can make some meaningful estimates of its contribution to agriculture, recreation, domestic and industrial water supply, and even to our less-tangible aesthetic needs. For example, most of the irrigated agriculture in the western United States, notably in the Central Valley of California, is supported by meltwater from snowpack; while in the past twenty years the number of Americans who ski has risen from 50,000 to approaching 4 million, representing only one aspect of the rapidly increasing economic benefits associated with snow-oriented recreation.

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