The AIARE Level 2 course is a 4-day program that provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills. This course also includes the introductory and prerequisite components for the next step in the professional progression: the Level 3 certificate.
The Level 2 builds from the introductory avalanche hazard management model introduced in the Level 1 and adds to it the evaluation of factors critical to stability evaluation.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Advance understanding of avalanche terrain, particularly from the perspective of stability analysis.
Discuss how the snowpack develops and metamorphoses over time; and discuss the factors that contribute to spatial variability.
Learn standard observation guidelines and recording formats for factors that influence or indicate snow stability. SWAG MODULE.
Advance understanding of avalanche release and triggering mechanisms.
Introduce a snow stability analysis and forecasting framework.
Improve companion rescue skills including multiple and deep burials.
Instructional Sessions (40 hours including both class and field) include:
Level 1 Review
Energy balance, the mountain snowpack and metamorphism
Faceting; near surface and near crust faceting
Formation of surface hoar and persistent weak layers
Skier Triggering: theory and observations
International and national snow, weather and avalanche observation and recording guidelines (SWAG).
- Weather; interpreting forecasts, recording and observation techniques
- Snow profile techniques and bonding tests
- Avalanche observations and recording techniques
Trip Planning and hazard forecasting for avalanche terrain.
- The avalanche danger ratings
- Terrain analysis using maps/photos
- Forecasting stability and variability
Terrain selection and route finding
- Group management and hazard management
- Decision making
- Human factors
Information gathering
- Site selection and relevancy
- Spatial variability
- Slope tests
Meet at the classroom in June Lake, CA at 8 am. The morning is spent in the classroom. The second half of the day will be in the field.
DAY 2
Meet at the classroom for another morning session. The afternoon in the field. We use the assistance of the ski lifts on June Mountain to quickly access a variety of terrain. Finish the day with a classroom session.
DAY 3
Morning meeting in the classroom. Then out to the field for the majority of the day. Back to the classroom in the afternoon.
DAY 4
Morning meeting in the classroom. Then out to the field for the majority of the day. Back to the classroom in the afternoon. Finish around 5pm on the last day.
