Snow layer density changes

TitleSnow layer density changes
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Conference1947
AuthorsWork, R. A.
Conference Name15th Annual Western Interstate Snow Survey Conference
Series TitleProceedings of the 15th Annual Western Interstate Snow Survey Conference
Date PublishedApril 1947
PublisherAmerican Geophysical Union, Transactions, Part IV:
Conference LocationPortland, Oregon
KeywordsSnow research, Snowpack density
Abstract

A 25-ft. square area of snowpack near Crater Lake, Oregon was studied systematically during the 1940-41 season. By successive excavation and refilling of portions of the study site, and by means of identifying ribbons, the metamorphosis of each layer of the snowpack was observed at regular intervals during the accumulation and melting season. Observations and conclusions are given regarding changes in density, mass or water equivalent, water storage, water transmission characteristics, and melting rates of the snow. Many results confirm existing knowledge and belief of a quantitative basis, others add to or modify well established opinions. An example is the lack of relationship between the density of snow layers and the weight of the overlying snow.Discussion is presented by Forest L. Rhodes of the Corps of Army Engineers, San Francisco, California.