The storage and transmission of liquid water in the snowpack as indicated by dyes

TitleThe storage and transmission of liquid water in the snowpack as indicated by dyes
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Conference1948
AuthorsGerdel, R. W.
Conference Name16th Annual Western Snow Conference
Series TitleProceedings of the 16th Annual Western Snow Conference
Date PublishedApril 1948
PublisherWestern Snow Conference
Conference LocationReno, Nevada
KeywordsCooperative snow investigations, Snowcover permeability
Abstract

Fuchsine dye of the Fine-Y crystal type was applied to the surface of a shaded, spring snowpack at 0930 hrs. on May 15, 1947, near Donner Summit, California. The dye salt was uniformly applied to a 6x10 inch surface of a 30 inch pack. The free water content before the application of the dye was 1.5 and 2.6%. A pit was dug at 1200 hrs. To expose the vertical surface of the snowpack. In 2 hrs. 45 min., meltwater moved through the pack, 3 ft. Horizontally and 2 ft. Vertically. The horizontal movement was mainly along one major plane, and to a lesser extent along 8 definable planes. Movement was more uniform through coarse-crystal strata. Impounded water above semi-permeable crusts was found to be temporary. Indications are that liquid water will drain from the snowpack of 20 to 40% density and 4 to 6 ft. depth within 2 to 6 hrs. after melting ceases.Discussion by Ashton R. Codd with references and quotations from Dr. J. E. Church.