ADV43010

This advanced course focuses on avalanche forecasting for backcountry skiers and splitboarders. While spending three weeks in a suitable mountain environment, students will learn and then perform the functions involved in operational forecasting using the conceptual model of avalanche hazard. Through a designated leadership model student will lead daily tours, gather avalanche observations, interpret remotely gathered data and use the information to write daily forecast narratives and make terrain-based decisions about daily tour operations. American Avalanche Association recreational level 2 certification will serve as a foundation for developing further knowledge on meteorology, mountain snowpack, snow formation and metamorphism, crystal ID, avalanche modeling, stability testing and evaluation, avalanche rescue, decision making, and group management. As the course progresses, material will include Professional Level I lessons. In summary, the course emphasizes all aspects of operational and site-specific forecasting methodology relevant to professional and recreational applications in snow science and avalanche hazard evaluation.SPECIAL NOTES: Required completion of a Level 1 avalanche course. Course will meet first 2 days in Prescott, then in the field. Estimated student expense of $350 -$1750 for ski and warm weather gear. Course includes $250.00 refundable fee for Group food while in the field and additionally the fee includes