Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

The overall research goal is to improve methods to describe and predict runoff generation associated with snowmelt by improving the fundamental knowledge that underpins the application of physical principles to the simulation of snowmelt runoff. This research will be conducted by deployment of unique snowpack measurement technology to replace the traditional snow survey and empirical techniques used to estimate snow mass, energetics and snow cover depletion. The SAS2, System for Acoustic Sensing of Snow, gauge was developed to the prototype stage by the applicant and students. The SAS2 can measure snow depth, density, water equivalent, temperature, wetness and layering by measuring the distortion of an acoustic signal from a loudspeaker that penetrates the snowpack and is reflected back to the surface and received by a microphone array. The SNODRONE is an unmanned aerial vehicle that will measure the extent and temperature of snowcover over large areas under clouds that would block satellite remote sensing. These measurements will provide essential information for new physically-based models of snowmelt . The geographical focus for this research will be in the Canadian Rockies, Prairies and Yukon. The SAS2 and SNODRONE constitute a Snow Observation System that will be deployed at existing meteorological stations in Marmot Creek Research Basin and Fortress Mountain Snow Laboratory, Alberta, Brightwater Creek Research Basin, Saskatchewan and Wolf Creek Research Basin, Yukon. These research sites develop seasonal snowpacks that contribute the majority of local runoff for streamflow generation and soil moisture recharge in their respective regions.