THE Northern Midlands Council will bring an additional $12 million to the Tasmanian economy if it is successful in gaining part of a $100 million economic diversification fund.
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The figure, listed in an independent report in the council's June agenda, would be achieved by installing 10 new snow-making guns on Ben Lomond.
Northern Midlands Mayor Kim Polley said the proposal would bring an additional 800 visitors to Northern Tasmania by guaranteeing a consistent 12-week ski season.
``Council thinks it is a positive move when we look at what criteria they're looking at for releasing the funds,'' Cr Polley said.
``If we can encourage more economic development in the Ben Lomond area, it would encourage more people to spend time in that part of the Northern region.''
The funding pool was brought forward and increased by former Australian prime minister Julia Gillard during her visit to Tasmania last month.
Ben Lomond Committee secretary Adrian Beswick has been skiing at Ben Lomond for 24 years and praised the council's initiative.
``If we get an increased water capacity there, we'll be able to increase our ability to service the beginner slopes up on the mountain,'' Mr Beswick said.
``It will increase its usability and the snow guarantee really increases capacity to make a difference to our service in a market that demands confidence.''
The project involved Ben Lomond Snow Sports, Alpine Enterprises, the Ben Lomond Committee, Tasmania's Parks and Wildlife Service, Northern Midlands Council and the federal government.
The proposal includes improving the grooming and drainage on snowfields, the installation of a fun air bag and magic carpet, enhancement of the terrain park, boardwalk replacement, new toilet and shelter facilities and a new dam to provide water for snow generation.