Several ski areas in the West are using'snow farming' as temperatures rise amid the worst snow drought in modern history, as they store up manmade snow for the next ski season. The practice involves making artificial snow when conditions are ideal, in cold, dry weather, and covering it with a large, insulated mat to protect it from sun and rain. This method is more common in Europe but gaining a foothold in the US as snowfall has become less reliable. Small ski areas across Wisconsin, Idaho, and Utah are using this approach to preserve snow for next ski seasons. The success of the Winter Olympics in 2034 depends on the success of these tests. Snow Secure sells white polystyrene mats that fold like an accordion, which can be installed in a day and can be applied to a large pile of snow. The process allows ski areas to make snow in conditions that lead water droplets to freeze more rapidly.