It’s time once again for the annual Utah Snow and Avalanche Workshop. In this, the 6th annual workshop, the best and brightest minds in the avalanche and backcountry ski community will converge to discuss current avalanche issues, as well as take a look at accidents and avalanche deaths from the previous season so everyone can learn from those mistakes. In addition, the latest in avalanche research and education will be revealed and talked about so attendees will be up to date and informed before the start of the backcountry ski season.
Attending this workshop should be a must-do for anybody who spends time in Utah’s backcountry. Below is the schedule of activities and lectures at this year’s event.
- 1:00-6:30 Public Session
- 1:00-1:05 Welcome
- 1:05-1:20 Utah Winter Review 2012-13 – A look back at the events that shaped the winter of 2012-13.
- 1:20-1:40 ISSW Cliff Notes: A summary of selected topics presented at the ISSW 2013 in Grenoble, France in October 2013 – Bob Comey
- 1:40-3:00 Anatomy of a Backcountry Rescue: A behind the scenes view of what happens when your day goes bad. – Round table discussion featuring presentations from professional rescuers Travis Skinner, Brett Hutchings, Dave Richards & Dale Atkins. Sharing their close call tales – Elisabeth & Adam Morrey, Sheldon Smith, Gary Lyman & Caleb Stoker.
- 3:00-3:20 Break.
- 3:20-3:45 Sheep Creek & how it could happen to you: A springtime avalanche kills 5 savvy riders in Colorado’s worst avalanche accident in 50 years. What happened? Why? And what can you do to avoid similar accidents? Dale Atkins & Halsted Morris.
- 3:45-4:10 GPS tracking in a Backcountry environment, a greater understanding in decision making: The results of a pilot study from the 2012/13 winter using a paradigm shifting alternative which combines GPS tracking with a detailed participant logbook & robust participant interviews. Jordy Hendrik & Jerry Johnson.
- 4:10-4:40 Airbag Stats/New Technology Demo: Dispelling airbag myths & a first introduction to battery-powered, fan-filled airbags. Bruce Tremper & Nathan Kuder.
- 4:40-5:15 Human Factors & Decision Making: Lessons learned from the aviation industry. Julian Pridmore-Brown.
- 5:15-End Social in the main foyer of the South Town Expo Center… woohoo!
Along with the workshop, there will be exhibitors showing off their latest gear, and the might even see UAC Forecaster, Craig Gordon, wearing a tuxedo. The event will wrap up with happy hour in the lobby. Yes, the Utah Avalanche Center is buying everyone a beer!
The 2013 Utah Snow and Avalanche Workshop happens on Saturday, November 9 at the South Towne Expo Center in Sandy (10450 S. State Street.) Cost is $26 if purchased in advance online before October 31, and will be $30 at the door if space is still available.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit the Utah Avalanche Center website.