The snow research program at the Fraser Experimental Forest, Colorado

The results of past studies on the relation between snow and forests are reviewed and tabulated, and problems of future research are discussed. The forest is located about 6000 feet elevation and has an average annual precipitation of 30-40 inches, 60-80% of which is in the form of snow (which accounts for 80-90% of the annual streamflow). The first studies conducted were concerned with the relation between snow accumulation and the size of openings in various types of forests, and the effects of deforestation with snow evaporation; the question whether evaporation from intercepted snow is actually sufficiently faster than from the pack surface to account for the apparent gain in snow when trees are cut; the blowing of snow from tree crowns, and its possible sublimation during transit. Other projects will include: convection and condensation during snowmelt, the effects of tree trunks and small trees on snowmelt, the hydrologic effect of any forest management practice, and the water yield from alpine snowfields.