Though we continue to deal with uncertainty around our Forest Service partnership, it seems likely that SAC will be able to retain all three forecasters and continue issuing daily avalanche forecasts through the end of the season in mid-April.

We want to express our deepest gratitude to all SAC users for the outpouring of support in response to our call to action. The level of engagement was truly inspiring and made a difference. Thank you! 

A big thank you to the staffers in Representative Kevin Kiley and Representative Mark Amodei’s offices. They listened to your concerns and worked closely with us to elevate them within the USFS and USDA.

Finally, we want to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of our forecasters. This is a demanding job in a normal season. Despite the additional stress, they rose at 4 am to issue forecasts and ventured into the backcountry to conduct snow and avalanche observations all season long.

Navigating uncertainty is a familiar concept for all of us who travel through snow-covered mountains. For over 20 years, the U.S. Forest Service and nonprofit Sierra Avalanche Center have forged a successful partnership to provide the free daily avalanche forecast that hundreds of thousands of users rely on. Regardless of any uncertainty around government funding and staffing, the Sierra Avalanche Center is committed to continuing avalanche forecasting in the greater Lake Tahoe region. In the short-term we continue to support our Forest Service partners, while also developing contingency plans to ensure continuity of operations if the federal government pulls back on its historical support.

SAC sincerely appreciates your continued support - in the form of donations, advocacy, attendance at events, and submitting observations.

Questions can be directed to SAC Executive Director, David Reichel

davidr@sierraavalanchecenter.org