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One mission of the Forest Service National Avalanche Center is
to provide technology transfer to the United States avalanche
community. As such, we work with a variety of scientists from
universities and research institutions to test and develop emerging
avalanche technologies that may be useful for avalanche workers.
Use the links below to find more information about our current
projects. These projects include:
- SnowMicroPen - A sensitive
penetrometer for collecting detailed snow profile information.
We have been using and testing a SnowMicroPen since the 2000/2001
season for avalanche forecasting and research applications.
(Cooperators include the Swiss Federal Institute for Snow and
Avalanche Research, the Cold Regions Research and Engineering
Laboratory, Montana State University, Montana State University
TechLink, and CF Electronics).
- Spatial Variability. We
are working on problems associated with the spatial variability
of the snowpack at several scales. This section includes reports
of our work on spatial variability at the mountain range scale
and slope scales, on uniform slopes, and through time. (Cooperators
include Montana State University and the Swiss Federal Institute
for Snow and Avalanche Research).
- Using Shear Quality to Improve Stability
Test Interpretation. We are investigating whether noting
shear quality can help in the interpretation of stability test
results. Initial results have been encouraging. (Cooperators
include the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center and several
individuals).
- Faceting Around Ice Crusts.
We are helping with a project that is focused on analyzing the
extent of enhanced faceting adjacent to ice crusts. (Cooperators
include Colorado State University, the U.S.D.A. Forest Service
Rocky Mountain Research Station, and Montana State University).
- Weather Instrumentation Manual
- This manual is being prepared by Mark Moore, Director
of the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center. This section
provides a link to Mark's ongoing manual, which contains a wealth
of information on mountain weather instrumentation.
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