Motorized Introduction to Avalanches

Course description:
This course aims to help students recognize and understand obvious avalanche hazards through both classroom and field sessions. This course provides a brief introduction to avalanche statistics and human factors, avalanche terminology, avalanche terrain, snowpack and weather factors, trip planning and preparation, simple decision-making tools, and backcountry travel protocols. In the field session, students will gain an understanding of how a layered snowpack contributes to avalanching. Companion rescue techniques will also be covered, including the use of avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes.

Overall goal:
Introduce students to a more in-depth understanding of avalanche hazard, terrain

The course outcomes:

1. Recognize and avoid obvious avalanche hazard  

2. Understand and apply current avalanche advisories.

3. Understand how the snowpack contributes to avalanching.

4. Understand basic companion rescue.

Length/Format:
One classroom session of 3 hours and a field session of 7 hours.

Required Equipment:
Students are required to have a fully operational modern avalanche transceiver, an avalanche shovel (no plastic blades), and an avalanche probe. For the motorized class, you are required to have a working modern snowmobile and helmet. Transportation is on your own

The classroom portion of the course will be on Thursday, March 17th 2022 from 6:00 pm and last until 9:00 pm. This will take place at FVCC and you will recieve specific information prior to the class about exact locations.  The field portion of the course on will take place on Saturday, March 19th , and will most likely take place in Canyon Creek, on the Flathead National Forest. The cost for both the classroom and field session is $60

This class is offered by Flathead Avalanche Center in partnership with Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC). 

Registration Link: https://ace.fvcc.edu/CourseStatus.awp?&course=22SHPER1207A