I n s t r u m e n t s

a n d

M e t h o d s

It isan eventual goal to use thissensoras a tool forava-
lanche forecasting.This sensor could aid the forecaster in
determiningthestabilityofthesnowpackduringrapid
loading.Also, it is a hope that these sensors will be able to
capture an avalancheevent.This should be evident when
the avalanchereleases and the data will record the sensor
moving back to a zero angle of tilt.Another primary goal
is to capturea deep old snow avalanchethat is induced by
the loading of new snow.This could hopefully lead to the
detection of the failure plane within these slabs.
The 1995-1996data sets are inconclusive and no abso-
lute conclusions can be drawn from this first winter of re-
search.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors would like to extend its gratitude to Alta Ski
LiftCompanyandthe CenterforSnow Science atAlta.
Theirgeneroussupportforprovidingthefacilitiesand
equipment has made this project possible.

REFERENCES

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