Flathead Nordic Backcountry Patrol Training

Got to join the FNBP's annual training at Big Mtn..  The Nords are a great resource for the community as a search and rescue organization, and they also support the avalanche center through observation sharing, avalanche safety messaging and awareness (such as Beacon checkers, awareness booths, and patrols), and financial support.  Thanks FNBP!

• Our hasty pit near the top of Big Mtn, in a roped-off area inbounds, showed a mix of propagating and non-progating test results on the persistent slab problem.  The culprit for propagating results was the 11/23 surface hoar layer, buried by a 70 cm soft slab.  This was at an upper elevation, wind-protected slope tilted to the Southwest. See photo. 
• At lower elevations on a similar aspect (5500', SW), a quick pit suggested the poor structure noted above was not a concern.  It appears sun and warmer temperatures earlier in the season destroyed the surface hoar and the faceted crusts were notably stronger.