Status of coordination and standardization of snow surveying

The growth to international importance of snow surveys for streamflow forecasting resulted in some progress but lacks in coordination and standardization of procedures. The Bureau of Agricultural Engineering investigated the possibility of correlating the existing snow surveys and the need for new networks, with emphasis on Calif., Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Wyoming, Colorado, and Idaho. Experience useful for a country-wide water supply forecasts was gained. Equipment to be tested is described. Agreement was reached on the minimum number of snow courses in each important drainage basin, surveying and sketching of snow courses. New courses were laid out in Colorado, Wyoming, and the Snake River drainage basin, and a schedule of measurements wet up. Cooperation with the Forest Service, Park Service and the Bureau of Reclamation, together with the Weather Bureau was arranged, together with other agencies.