Plow drivers struggling due to lack of snow

BOSTON — While many are happy with the lack of snowfall, some plow drivers are struggling this time of year because of it. One driver estimates he’s lost about $15,000 to $20,000 this winter season.

“It’s been horrible,” said Zakk Giannette, who told Boston 25 News reporter Natalie Rubino he’s thought about leaving the country. “This is really bad. I actually thought about going to Nova Scotia with all the snow they have up there.”

We spoke with Giannette in January 2019 in the middle of a 24-hour workday filled with clearing snow from Worcester roads and parking lots, but because of the lack of snow, he says he hasn’t had a day like that in over a year.

“Normally this time of year we’re out there pulling in some decent cash. Most of these guys pull in decent cash depending on rates and stuff,” he said.

Right now, Boston is more than 11 inches below the seasonal average of snowfall accumulation.

Looking back on the last five years, the snowiest year was 2015 when Boston saw almost 65 inches of snow in February. This year, there’s only been about two-and-a-half inches of snowfall in February and just over three inches in January.

Brett Bartelson owns VIP Landscaping in Worcester and says they’ve also taken a financial hit in snow plowing jobs this season.

“We actually had one subcontractor go to Myrtle Beach for paving because there hasn’t been enough work up here for him,” he said.

Even though we’re seeing above-average temperatures, that doesn’t mean the company can do landscaping either.

“It’s just been too muddy and everything and from the standpoint of us trying to work, you’re going to make more of a mess,” said Bartelson.

But both Giannette and Bartelson know better not to count on a steady snow plowing income. Bartelson is using the extra time to catch up on managerial work and get the company ready for the real money-making season.

“It’s also given us a chance to take a step back and fix any problems with the company like repairing equipment and also prepare for this upcoming spring, as well,” said Bartelson.

Both men told us they’re hoping for at least one more big storm before the season is over.

>> Where did all the snow go? A look into why January has been feeling more like spring than winter

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