A Multi-Parameter Snow Sounding Probe
Abstract
Vertical soundings of the snowpack are essential diagnostic tools for snow hydrologists and avalanche forecasters. Hydrologists require quantitative profiles of snow density from which they can infer the total amount of snow coverage in a region. Because variations in altitude and terrain can result in widely different coverage, they must dig a relatively large number of pits or extract and weigh many core samples to estimate the snow water equivalent from the corresponding average density. Avalanche forecasters are concerned with recent precipitation and relatively rapid metamorphosis of buried snow layers. While they too require a large number of pits to assess the avalanche potential of a basin, they often perform a more qualitative inspection aimed at identifying the presence and depth of weak layers in a relatively immature snowpack. To address these needs, we have developed a penetration field-portable capacitance probe capable of recording profiles of complex dielectric permittivity and temperature through the snowpack. Density profiles were acquired without the need for multiple excavations. The probe consists of a lance with a wedged capacitance tip allowing penetration to variable depths. The tip is connected to a portable signal conditioner for data processing and storage.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 14, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA410949
Entities
People
- Bryan Manning
- Kelly Clifford
- Michael Y. Louge
- Robert L. Foster