Model studies of snowdrifts formed by livestock shelters and pond embankments

Although artificial barriers are commonly used to protect livestock from winter winds, the optimum design has yet to be determined for locations with blowing snow. This paper reports results from small-scale models studied outdoors under natural blowing snow conditions. Little snow accumulates initially on the lee side of solid shelters because blowing snow is entrained in the accelerated flow at the outer boundaries of the wake, and carried over or around the sheltered area. V-shaped and semicircular shelters form similar drifts and provide adequate protection if they are tall (3.7-5m), and have a diameter, or width, less than 15 times their height. A snow fence placed too close to the shelter increases deposition. Embankments should be confined to the downwind half of excavated stockwater ponds. A snow fence placed on top of an existing windward embankment will increase snow deposition within the pond.