This course is designed for snow profesionals interested in gaining a better understanding of snow science as well as learning the international standard for taking and recording observations. The curriculum is based on the AIARE (American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education) Level 2 curriculum and taught by AIARE trained instructors. The course will be held over four full and informational days.

The level II course will cover the following topics in depth:

• Snow metamorphism - this includes weather related effects on the snowpack.
• Standard guidelines for observation and recording of weather, snowpack and avalanches.
• Stability tests and analysis
• Decision making

At the conclusion of the course, students should have an understanding of:

• the snow metamorphism process and how it relates to snow stability.
• Weak layer formation within the snowpack
• temperature gradients

Students should be able to:

• make standerdized recordings for observations of weather, snowpack and avalanches.
• Conduct a variety of stability tests and interpret the results
• Perform an avalanche rescue

Course Itinerary

Day 1: Level 1 review, Avalanche mechanics, In depth mountain snowpack, set up fieldbooks, full Snow profile demo

Day 2: Weather observations, field observations, Snow stability factors, In depth terrain discussion, test profile.

Day 3: ( In the Field) Avalanche terrain, test profile, field observations. Review mountain snowpack and current stability, Case study.

Day 4: Stability analysis process. (In the Field) route finding, group management, Leadership and decision making skills.

The course will be a combination of indoor and outdoor sessions with an emphasis on hands on experience. Each day's itinerary may be modified due to weather, conditions or pace of course.

• Participants should have successfully completed an AIARE level 1 or equivalent course.
• Participants should be of intermediate or advanced skiing ability on Telemark, alpine touring or snowboarding gear. Backcountry travel will require the use of skins for skis or snowshoes for snowboards.
• Participants are encouraged to bring their own beacon for use in the course, though NCMG will have beacons available for use throughout the program.
• Be prepared to be outside regardless of the weather conditions.
• All participants will be required to sign a release form at the start of the course.
• Please refer to the equipment list for complete list of gear to bring.

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• February 1-4, 2008
• Cost: $1150 - includes Heli flight, Student manual, lodging during course and all meals.
• Equipment list
• See photos of Yurt where course will be held