Weight versus melting method for determining density of snow

Snow density measurements were made with the weight method, using a Mt. Rose snow sampler, and with the melting method. A comparison shows that density as determined by weight was higher by as much as 3 percent when determined by melting. The disadvantage of the melting method are: (1) difficulty in obtaining an accurate sample of snow at great depths; (2) loss of the snow crust from the sample by breaking; (3) lack of air release, causing some snow of the sample to be blown out; and (4) water wastage during melting and measuring operations. Faulty design of the Mt. Rose sampler is suggested as a possible source of error. The redesign and manufacture of the Standard Snow Survey Sampler cutter with an inside diameter of 1.49812 in from the Mt. Rose cutter of 1.5 in diameter and the New Standard Tubular Scales that are calibrated with test weights at regular intervals would reduce the weight method of determining the density of snow.