Bridger data system multipoint snowpack thermometry

A method of multipoint snowpack measurement using the Bridger Data System has been developed and tested. Data taken from a closely spaced array of thermistor thermometers has been used to delineate the snow surface and the diurnal heat wave through the snowpack. Computer plots and manual examination of temperature gradient data are two methods used to derive snow depth information. One phase of this study has been an investigation of the stability and magnitude of the air-snow interface temperature gradient, and determine if the interface temperature gradient can be used as a reliable indicator of the snow surface. The experiment instrumentation details are shown as well as plotted data of the temperature gradient as measured by the thermistor thermometers. Conclusions indicate that the theory is practical and that the accuracy of depth of snow determination is dependent on the closeness of space of the thermistors.