Dec 1: WSTC • Decision-Making in the Backcountry

Washington Ski Touring Club Monthly Program
Decision-Making in the Backcountry • John Stimberis, Avalanche Forecaster with WSDOT and Alpental Ski Patroller • REI Seattle • Dec 1, 7p • FREE

Most of us go out of our way to avoid avalanches. For John Stimberis, the opposite is true: he does all he can to find and trigger avalanches so the rest of us don’t have to go far to avoid them!

Using WSDOT’s avalanche control program at Chinook Pass as a backdrop, John shares the decisions he and his colleagues make each day of the spring season to travel safely in their quest to eliminate avalanche hazards above SR 410. He will cover such topics as trip planning, field observations, and safe travel decisions. John also addresses the common themes among backcountry accidents over the past few years, and includes a review of ways we can make better decisions to avoid trouble.

John works as an avalanche forecaster for the WSDOT. He also patrols at Alpental and volunteers with BARK, a local backcountry rescue group. John says, “As much as I love my role as an avalanche professional, I would like nothing more than to NOT conduct a backcountry rescue mission this season.”

Enter to win an avalanche probe, an absolute essential for backcountry adventures.

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Thanks for posting.

I planning on being there. Looks a great topic.

I’m also hoping I might get a chance to shake the man who’s efforts have done much towards positive communications to help WSDOT avy control and local backcountry skiers stay afoul of one another around Chinook Pass each Spring.

Thanks, John.

Anyone attending this event that would some free rechargeable batteries LOOK HERE .

BTW -- The "After Meeting" for brewskis will be held upstairs around the corner on Thomas st at LunchBox Labratory

John Stimberis did a commendable job explaining how his experience in purposely knocking huge quantities of snow over roadways can help one become a more aware and safer backcountry skier. It was good to meet him and see his presentation.
Michael Jackson – I would certainly cast a vote for John doing a presentation at the NSAS next year.
Thanks, Stimbuck