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Avalanche Course

MOTORIZED Avalanche Science REC1+

COURSE HIGHLIGHTS

E
REC1+ Motorized Avalanche Science Course
E
3 field days, 4 hours of interactive classroom, and 8 hours of online material
E
Avalanche Level 1 and the Rescue modules
Payette National Forest & Cambridge, ID

Overview

Itinerary

FAQ

Course Price

Dates

AVALANCHE CLASS FOR MOTORIZED USERS

Avalanche Science MOTORIZED courses are designed for Snowmobilers and Snow-bikes enthusiasts 

Education Provider: Avalanche Science

Instructor/Snowmobile Guide/Rider: Jack Simmonds

AS REC1+ Course:
  • 2 hours of Pre-course material
  • 8 hours of online instruction
  • 4 hours of an interactive classroom with an instructor
  • 3-day fieldwork at Mores Creek Summit
  • Advanced Snow Science and Terrain navigation
  • Avalanche Science REC1+ 3-year Certification
  • Level 1 diploma that exceeds AAA Guidelines
Prerequisite:
  • Own and know how to operate a snowmobile or snow-bike.

 

Itinerary

Pre-course material:
  • 2-hour online
Course Format:

  • 3 days of fieldwork and backcountry ski touring in the Payette National Forest
  • 4-hour interactive classroom session with an instructor
  • 8-hours online video and multimedia material
Learning Outcomes for REC1+ Module:
  • Gain an understanding of snow science: snow metamorphism and slab avalanche fracture mechanics. Anticipate the impact of weather in the snowpack. Track precipitation, wind, and temperature critical thresholds driving avalanche instability.
  • Make relevant weather, weather, and avalanche observations. Target observations relevant to the avalanche problem of the day.
  • Familiarity with CAA OGRS / AAA SWAG. Competency with ATES frameworks. Awareness of CMAH.
  • Recognize avalanche terrain and the role of slope angles. Identify, estimate, and measure slope angles and recognize terrain connectivity.
  • Develop terrain navigation tools and skills; Stability wheel, structural weaknesses, and reactivity tests.
  • Adopt safe travel protocols when traveling in avalanche terrain and recognize human factors impacting the safety of the team.
  • Introduce Avalanche Release Conceptual model and develop a systematic method for avalanche risk assessment and execution of safe travel plans.
  • Reliable identification of slab and weak layer structures in snow pits. Characterize snowpack structure reactivity with basic stability tests.
Learning Outcomes for RESCUE Module:
  • Gain an understanding of avalanche beacon technology.
  • Training in avalanche companion rescue techniques for D2 and D3 avalanches sizes.
  • Conduct transceiver functional verification at the trailhead.
  • Understanding of the value and the function of avalanche rescue equipment.
  • Demonstrate professional-level probing techniques.
  • Reliable single avalanche victim companion rescue.
  • Familiar with two-victims avalanche scenarios.
  • Effective communication during avalanche rescues.
  • Capable of generating Emergency Response Plans.
  • Internalize that an avalanche incident is a medical emergency, and develop familiarity with potential injuries and potential medical issues common on buried avalanche victims.
  • Develop awareness about the value of wilderness or outdoor medical training.

FAQ

Avalanche Science and AIARE courses

Avalanche Science Guides (ASG) is an avalanche education provider endorsed by the American Avalanche Association. Similarly AIARE is too. You see the list of providers endorsed by  the AAA at https://avalanche.org/avalanche-courses/#course-providers

The biggest difference between an ASG and AIARE course is the amount of time spend touring and skiing! ASG believes students learn best from being in the field for 3 full days. We do have short breaks where we stand in the field and talk about concepts but we also move and teach you how to avoid avalanches. We believe this approach, this immersive education, is key to beginning to understand how to manage risk in avalanche terrain.

What rescue equipment is required for Avalanche Science REC courses?

Avalanche Science recommends that course participants get the best equipment available in the market, such as Mammut transceivers,  Black Diamond’s Evac Shovels, and lightweight QuickDraw Probes from 300 cm to 320 cm.

Mammut are the only avalanche rescue transceiver brand that during the 2021-2022 period has not experienced a recall notice.

BD Evan shovels are sturdy, flat-bottom profile for excellent snow-pit craftsmanship, extendable handle, and hoe configuration for fast snow removal.

What snow tools are required for Avalanche Science REC courses?
Avalanche Science recommends the following gear for snow-pit work:
1. Black Diamonds Snow Saw PRO.
2. Loupe Magnifier 30x -> Buy at Amazon
3. Exec Needle Digital Thermometer-> Buy at Thermoworks

Avalanche Science provides students with crystal cards.

When and Where do I meet with Avalanche Science Guides?
Unless otherwise indicated, Avalanche Science meet at 8:00 AM for Guided Tours, Skills Refreshers, Introductory Backcountry courses, as well as REC and PRO Avalanche Courses.
Meeting locations will be in the Cambridge, ID and Payette National Forest areas. Exact locations will be determined as the classes get closer.
What time are excursions over?

All Avalanche Science functions plan to be arriving at the trailheads by 4:00 PM. Most are driving back by 4:30 PM. 

COURSE PRICE

 

 $650/person

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Group Guide

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