SAM Idea Files

On the Mark

A good thermometer is a vital instrument at ski areas, especially for snowmakers. However, there is no need to spend an arm and a leg to get one that is accurate. A standard hardware store outdoor thermometer will do. The trick is to calibrate it so that when the scale reads 32 degrees it actually is 32 degrees. A neat way to do this is to use this clever idea from John Holland, ranch foreman at Rocking Horse Ranch, N.Y., an equestrian resort that offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter.