Here is an interesting article about the differebt boarder/skier ratio depending whether at the beginning of the season (mostly boarders) or later in the season (70% skiers). And how half pipes are made, and maintained and why this occurs later in the season vice early.
Enjoy,
The Colonel
http://www.triangle.com/outdoors/story/1979323p-8357252c.html

maybe its just me but i feel like there are less boarders this yr... more skiers.
???