Snowpack Experts to Lead Public Outing Atop McClure Pass
Educational event features specialists from Natural
Resources Conservation Service and West Elk Mountain Rescue
Paonia –Weather watchers, citizen scientists, outdoor adventurers, and all who rely on a healthy water future are invited to a snowshoe & cross-country ski trip atop McClure Pass on March 22, beginning at 9:30am. Hosted by the Western Slope Conservation Center and Thompson Divide Coalition, this free event includes presentations by snow surveyor Derrick Wyle of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and Phil Volckhausen of West Elk Mountain Rescue.
Snow surveyors for the NRCS collect and analyze snowpack readings throughoutColorado’s mountains. Data from Wyle’s snow surveys and automated remote stations help ditch companies, farmers and conservation districts plan for wise water management policies and planting schedules. TheGunnisonRiver Basinis currently at 112 percent of median snowpack values, but long-term drought conditions remain throughout the state. During this event Wyle will provide demonstrations on snowpack data collection.
Recreationalists also rely on this information to plan their backcountry adventures. But even the most adept and prepared mountain traveler can get into trouble – and when they do, the West Elk Mountain Rescue Team is often called in for search and rescue assistance. During this outing, WEMR President Phil Volckhausen will also provide instruction on essential items for safe backcountry travel.
This event is open to the public, and appropriate for all ages and abilities. Beginning at 9:30am on March 22, the group will travel along Ragged Mountain Road, from its junction with Highway 133 at McClure Pass. Travelers should bring their own snowshoes or cross-country skis, and expect to be outdoors for approximately three hours. Carpooling is strongly encouraged, and will be available from Paonia andCarbondale. For more information or RSVP, please contact Brian at theWesternSlopeConservationCenterat (970) 527-5307 ext 206 or brian@theconservationcenter.org
ABOUT THE CONSERVATION CENTER
The WesternSlopeConservationCenteris a grassroots organization located in western Colorado. Our organization began in 1977 when neighbors joined to stop coal mines from dumping waste next to the river. Over the years, we have worked to protect water resources, public lands, and human health. We focus on issues concerning Delta County and the North Fork Valley. You can read more about our history and programs at www.theconservationcenter.org
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