How Much Snow?

Last winter, at 682 different locations in the Rockies and high Sierras, more than 30,000 exact measurements of snow depth and water content were taken, in order to estimate how much water the mountain snowfields would supply in the run-off during summer months. To make this survey cost more than $100,000. On it was predicated the expenditure, and saving, of millions.

While the science of surveying snow is still in its infancy, its extent and importance are increasing rapidly. Ridiculed at first, in the last few years it has taken on world-wide aspects. To grasp its significance in our western states, picture a series of snow-covered mountain ranges that by their streams make life possible in dry intervening valleys. Abundant snow means abundant water. Abundant water means power, and cheap electricity. More important still, it means abundant crops. Dearth of snowfall in the mountains means dry river beds in August, machinery standing idle, thirsty cattle, and dying plants.