Cost analysis of snow control structures in Ontario

TitleCost analysis of snow control structures in Ontario
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Conference1993
AuthorsPerchanok, M. S., and Bacchus A.
Conference Name61st Annual Western Snow Conference
Series TitleProceedings of the 61st Annual Western Snow Conference
Date PublishedJune 1993
PublisherWestern Snow Conference
Conference LocationQuebec City, Quebec
KeywordsSnow control, Snow fences, Windbreaks
Abstract

The number of snow fences used along Ontario highways has declined as highway maintenance resources have diminished. This study was undertaken to compare alternative windbreak technologies to control drifting snow.Four principal types of windbreaks suitable for controlling snow were identified: 1) temporary snow fence, 2) permanent snow fence, 3) snow hedge, and 4) standing corn stalks when corn is planted in rotation, alternating with temporary snow fence in other years.Material, labour and land costs associated with each type were estimated, and compared on the basis of equivalent annual cost of the net present value, for periods ranging from 1 to 50 years.Where practical, corn stalks with temporary snow fence was the lowest cost alternative for periods from 1 to 6 years. Permanent snow fence was the lowest cost alternative for longer periods. The study showed that permanent snow fence or snow hedge are more cost effective than temporary snow fence inn controlling drifting snow and should be considered for installation where land-use conditions are suitable.

URLsites/westernsnowconference.org/PDFs/1993Perchanok.pdf