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SnowQUEST mapping provides detailed statistics outlining the quantity
and spatial distribution of water in the snow pack.
Key Benefits
 | Determine snowmaking system efficiency |
| Compare efficiencies of different equipment and gun types |
| Compute consumptive water loss for water rights considerations |
| Predict runoff volumes from mountain watersheds |
Capabilities
- System Efficiency
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- Assess the volume of water on trails in the form of artificial snow,
relative to the volume diverted through
the snowmaking system,
providing an estimate of system efficiency. Managers can identify
areas of low efficiency on the mountain, and establish steps to
improve operations where needed. Compute baseline efficiencies and set
goals for future snowmaking crews.
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- Equipment Comparison
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- The efficiency of various equipment and gun designs can be
calculated and compared. This allows the ski area manager an ability
to determine which equipment performs best under varying site
conditions. Identify
which systems provide the greatest snow volume for
the least amount of water.
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- Water Rights - Consumptive Loss
Calculate system water losses attributable to evaporation and
sublimation. These site-specific loss estimates are important for
water rights considerations, particularly in the Western U.S., where
consumptive use must be identified and augmented to prevent injury to senior water
rights.-
- Watershed Runoff
Spatial estimates of snow pack water content provide the basis for
prediction of water yield during the snowmelt season. Snowmelt volume
predictions are useful for assessing the potential for flooding, and
stream channel damage. In addition, basin water yield predictions may
be important for municipal water supply planning.
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