Utah remains at the forefront of snow science and avalanche mitigation efforts. Following a history of innovation dating back to the 1940s, the state is increasingly adopting Remote Avalanche Control (RACS) technology to manage the dangers posed by its heavy annual snowfall.
Utah's weather and avalanche risks
The necessity for mitigation stems from Utah's unique weather patterns. According to Professor Jim Steenburgh, Utah storms often arrive with a combination of factors that create low-density powder. While this creates ideal skiing conditions, the massive volume of snow adds significant weight to existing snowpacks, which can cause weak layers to fail and trigger avalanches.
History of manual mitigation methods
Historically, mitigation in Little Cottonwood Canyon began with manual methods. In the 1940s, USFS Snow Rangers used techniques such as ski cutting and explosives. A notable milestone occurred in 1949 when a Snow Ranger at Alta, Monty Atwater, tested a 75-mm howitzer gun from the Utah National Guard to trigger avalanches more efficiently than manual labor.
Transition to remote control technology
As the Army began recalling military artillery previously used by ski resorts and departments of transportation, the industry shifted toward safer, remote technologies. Utah has been a leader in this transition.
Current RACS systems in use
Several organizations have implemented RACS systems:
UDOT, Snowbasin, and Brighton have utilized GAZEX systems, which use a mixture of oxygen and propane gas to trigger slides.
Alta Ski Area uses O'BELLX devices on Mount Baldy, while UDOT utilizes two in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
UDOT, Alta, Snowbird, and Solitude have invested in Wyssen Avalanche Towers. UDOT recently installed 16 towers on Mount Superior during the summer of 2024, bringing their total to 29 towers.
Testing new North American technology
Additionally, Alta, Jackson Hole, and Wolf Creek are testing the BW-Exploder, known as the Boom Woosh. Developed by Alpine Infrastructure, this is the first RACS device designed in North America, utilizing gas lines to transport hydrogen and oxygen to trigger explosions.
Commitment to ongoing safety innovation
The ongoing investment in these technologies reflects a commitment to safety for guests, employees, and infrastructure. Through decades of study and the adoption of modern remote-controlled tools, Utah continues to advance the science of avalanche prevention.
