Kajaani's Volunteer Payments for Early Snow Tracks Generated Thousands

Kajaani's volunteer payment system for skiing on its early snow tracks has raised several thousand euros. The revenue will directly contribute to the maintenance of the Vimpelinlaakso early snow track. The aim is also to extend the track in the future, according to Jari Rajala, acting head of sports services. The track usually welcomes about 12,000 visitors each late autumn. The costs of snow preservation and transportation amount to approximately 10,000 euros annually, with each use costing the city about 80 cents. The community appreciates this service, and the volunteer payment model will remain in place to avoid additional costs associated with collection and monitoring, ensuring that the existing service continues to thrive. The preserved snow comes from the fields, which would otherwise be transported to snow dumps in spring, making this system not only cost-effective but also environmentally conscious. The local authorities are planning small additions to reduce crowding and accommodate skiers of different skill levels better.