Item: Using Time-Lapse Photography to Monitor Avalanche Terrain
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Title: Using Time-Lapse Photography to Monitor Avalanche Terrain
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2016 Proceedings, Breckenridge, CO, USA
Authors:
- Diana Saly [ Snow and Avalanche Lab, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA ]
- Jordy Hendrikx [ Snow and Avalanche Lab, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA ]
- Jerry Johnson [ Snow and Avalanche Lab, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA ] [ Department of Political Science, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA ]
- Doug Richmond [ Bridger Bowl Ski Patrol, Bozeman, MT, USA ]
Date: 2016-10-02
Abstract: On January 14, 2016 an avalanche occurred on the Football Field of Saddle Peak in Southwest Montana. Saddle Peak is a backcountry slope, located immediately adjacent to the Bridger Bowl Ski Area boundary and accessed from the Bridger Bowl Schlassmans Lift. A time-lapse digital SLR camera mounted on an unused gun platform with a clear view of Saddle Peak captured the avalanche. Diana Saly (researcher) and Doug Richmond (Bridger Bowl Patrol Director) met at the gun platform where Richmond was initiating and coordinating the response. The team reviewed the images and assessed skier involvement within minutes of the event. Two skiers were photographed in close proximity to the avalanche during release and resulting avalanche. Both skiers were photographed returning to the ski area boundary following the avalanche and confirmed as not involved. A short video (2 min) was developed to document the January 2016 event and demonstrate the value of this technology for rescue and emergency situations. The data also provides an opportunity to document terrain use in different snowpack and avalanche conditions by travelers in easily accessed back country terrain.
Object ID: ISSW16_O8.03.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s):
Keywords: time-lapse photography, backcountry, case study, terrain use
Page Number(s): 192-198
Subjects: time lapse photography backcountry skiers avalanche terrain
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