It's true, locals get a break with Utah's 13 ski areas if they plan ahead.

Resorts know the value of local skiers, and because of it offer preseason specials to those who wish to take advantage.

In most cases, proof of Utah residency is required.

And, realizing hard times, "Many ski resorts are slashing prices on season passes and offering locals-only discounts," said Jessica Kunzer, spokeswoman for Ski Utah, the ski industry's marketing arm in the state.

Traditionally, Labor Day is the unofficial beginning of the ski- and snowboarding-buying season. Retail ski and snowboard shops hold their preseason sales.

According to 2008-09 totals, skier/snowboarder visits dropped nationally 5.5 percent from the record season of 2007-08 — 60.5 million.

Utah recorded its fourth-best season with nearly 4 million skier/snowboarder days. The record season was 2007-08 with 4.25 million skier days.

One reason for Utah's high numbers is the close proximity of its resorts. Seven world-class resorts can be reached within 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City.

"(Resorts) feel really fortunate to have a large local population near. ... A lot of our resorts are reaching out to locals maybe more this season than you've seen in the past," said Kunzer. "A lot of the resorts are saying they've extended their early season offerings and discounts. The consumer really wants to make sure they get the best bang for their buck."

She pointed out that Utah is not the only state offering local bargains. A growing number of Colorado resorts are offering payment plans for season passes, refusing to raise prices and creating special packages for tourists and locals.

Following is a list of preseason prices being offered. Again, in most cases, proof of Utah residency is required:

Alta: Adult season pass is $999 and midweek $799. Student, youth, college and military passes available. Alta/Snowbird season pass is $1,499.

Ten-ride Powder Card is $490 and Silver Card is $99 and allows Utah residents to ski for $39 a day, and will be able to "reload" the card during the season at the same rate. There is also an Express card that is tied to a credit card and allows the skier to go directly to the lift and be billed later. Preseason rate good through Sept. 30. Military and senior passes available.

Beaver Mountain: Adult season is $480 and Junior (ages 6-11) pass is $320. Must be purchased before Oct. 15.