Item: CASE STUDY AND OPERATIONAL HISTORY OF BRIGHTON RESORT, UT, USA GAZEX REMOTE AVALANCHE CONTROL SYSTEM
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Title: CASE STUDY AND OPERATIONAL HISTORY OF BRIGHTON RESORT, UT, USA GAZEX REMOTE AVALANCHE CONTROL SYSTEM
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2024, Tromsø, Norway
Authors:
- Brandon Dodge [ MND America ] [ Brighton Ski Patrol ]
- Craig Gordon [ Brighton Ski Patrol (alumni) ] [ Utah Avalanche Center Forecaster ]
Date: 2024-09-23
Abstract: Brighton Resort, Utah is located at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon in the Central Wasatch Mountain Range. Brighton Resort is designated a Level A avalanche hazard operation, receiving an average of 1200cm annual snowfall. In 1936 Brighton became the first Ski Area in the State of Utah and the 15th Ski Area in the United States. 1963 led to terrain expansion with the Millicent single chair lift and Brighton’s introduction to avalanche hazard. This hazard was managed through terrain closures and use of a US Forest Service 75mm pack howitzer. As the years and technology progressed Brighton Resort transitioned to the 75mm recoilless rifle, followed by a tray loaded avalauncher, and finally the GAZEX remote avalanche control system (RACS). In 2005 Brighton installed a GAZEX control shelter and (2) 0.8 inertia exploders, followed by the installation of (1) additional 0.8 and (1) 1.5 inertia exploder in 2006. This case study will focus on improved safety and operational efficiencies recognized in the subsequent nineteen seasons of operation. It also provides a working database and historic reference for both current and future generations.
Object ID: ISSW2024_P10.6.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Brandon Dodge
Keywords: RACS, safety, efficiency, GAZEX, avalanche mitigation
Page Number(s): 1373 - 1380
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