Provincial ski facilities extending season on P.E.I.

Skiers on Prince Edward Island will be able to spend more time at the provincial ski hill and on other provincial ski trails this winter.

The season has been extended at the Brookvale provincial ski park and at the Mill River park until March 29.

That's about a week later than usual.

Tourism minister Rob Henderson saidit's mostly because of the extra snow this winter, but finances play a role as well.

Henderson saidthe province normally allocatesabout $400,000for the operation ofthe ski facilities at Brookvale and Mill River.

"Our revenues are a little bit higher this year," said Henderson. "So we think that we will still be on budget by doing this. You know hopefully it will be better than that."

"But it is an opportunity for Islanders to show their interest and need for having an extended season and if numbers warrant, we can use this to make decisions in future years."

Henderson notes the trails at the nordic parks at Brookvale and Mill River will continue to be groomed until April 6but they won't have any rentals after March 29.