SnowSchool Archives - Winter Wildlands Alliance Working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes. Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:47:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://winterwildlands.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/cropped-Solstice-Trees-Logo-e1657728223845-32x32.png SnowSchool Archives - Winter Wildlands Alliance 32 32 183875264 SnowSchool Mid-Winter Field Update 2025 https://winterwildlands.org/snowschool-mid-winter-field-update-2025/ Wed, 05 Mar 2025 05:23:13 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=40211 Check out photos and updates from across the snow globe this season!

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SnowSchool Field Update

Check out photos and updates from across the snow globe this season!




Photo by Swan Valley Elementary School’s Creative & Communications Director, Andrea DiNino.


SnowSchool annually engages over 35,000 participants across 72 sites and this winter is no different. Our sites across 17 states along the US snow-belt engage K-12 students, teachers, and volunteers to venture out on snowshoes as part of a fun and educational science-based field trip. Over 50% of participants are underserved and a majority are first time snowshoers!

Winter Wildlands Alliance works year-round with organizational partners nationwide to establish new SnowSchool sites each year and help bring this important experience to the communities and students that need it most.

While there have been plenty of challenges to public lands and outdoor education this winter, we are excited to share pictures and quotes taken from successful SnowSchool outings across the snowglobe this winter so far!


Photo from Great Basin Outdoor School


 “The BEST thing about the snowshoe trip was: hiking, playing coyote and rabbit, the games, learning, snowshoeing, the bingo game, exploring the forest, the view, the snow, learning new things, getting to see pretty places and activities, seeing animal tracks, the exploring.”

-Quotes compiled from multiple students’ post assessments at the end of a two-night, three-day trip at Lake Tahoe via Great Basin SnowSchool.


Photo from Kate Yeater at Salmon Valley Stewardship

In Salmon, ID, Salmon Valley Stewardship has been been doing a lot more SnowSchool programming and winter ecology this winter due to great snow in the valley!
“Salmon youth are learning about natural resource topics and careers in Salmon Valley Stewardship’s monthly Friday program. In January, we welcomed local avalanche educator Lara to teach students about snow science, and demonstrate how to use an avalanche beacon and probe for safe winter recreation! We’re also offering community members the ability to borrow our inventory of cross country skis and snowshoes so get outside and explore this winter.”
-Kate Yeater (she/her), Outdoor Education & Trails Stewardship Coordinator at Salmon Valley Stewardship


Photo by Swan Valley Elementary School’s Creative & Communications Director, Andrea DiNino.


At Swan Valley Connections’ Snow Science Day in Condon, Montana, K-8 students from Swan Valley Elementary spent the afternoon learning to identify wildlife tracks in the snow and exploring snow science concepts, such as Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) and the subnivean zone. As part of their youth programs, SnowSchool has created engaging and memorable experiences outside the classroom.


 Photo from Sarah Shaw at Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative in Alma, CO

At a recent half-day snow camp hosted by Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative in partnership with Mountain Area Land Trust at Sacramento Creek Ranch, they explored the woods, looking for tracks and signs of animals, did snow experiments using equipment like magnifying glasses and thermometers, built a campfire, and went sledding!
“Best day ever!”
-Jack, 6 year old participant


Photo from Frankie Beard, Wild Bear Nature Center

“Most of our photos this year are from training, as I think we have a tendency to get caught up in teaching and forget to take pictures with the kids!”

– Frankie Beard, Wild Bear Nature Center


Photo from Taylor Schultz, Education Coordinator, Mancos Conservation District

“It just warms my heart seeing all these students outside. They need this to learn about connecting with nature and our outdoor spaces.”
-Trail user near the SnowSchool site at The Mancos Conservation District 


Photo from Deanna Butcher, Wenatchee River Institute

“Many students commented on how much they enjoyed finding how much water is in the snow and they didn’t realize it was something you could do and in some cases get paid to do it. Also, many mentioned how much they loved snowshoeing and wished they could take their family snowshoeing as it was many students first time!”
– Deanna Butcher, Youth Programs Coordinator, Wenatchee River Institute


Photo from Kelle Bruno, Pagosa Peak Open School

“We had a blast! It was the first time out on snow shoes for all of them and they really loved it.”

-Kelle Bruno, 1st Grade Lead Advisor at Pagosa Peak Open School


Photo from Bogus Basin SnowSchool, SnowSchool’s National Flagship Site in Boise, ID

“Best day ever!”

– 4th grader at Bogus Basin SnowSchool


Photo from Kate Hall at the Lands Council

“Students from Innovation HS participated in SnowSchool with The Lands Council on Mt. Spokane. They discussed the importance of our mountain snowpack, learned about plant and animal adaptations to winter, performed an avalanche search-and-rescue activity, and dug emergency snow caves!”
– Kat Hall, Restoration Program Director at The Lands Council


Photo from Alastair Keith, Field Institute of Taos

“Students from Taos Day School, Taos Pueblo spent the day exploring the Carson National Forest and the ancestral Lands of the Red Willow People…the 5th/6th grade class dug snow pits and studied the snowpack, recording their findings in order to learn about their watershed. Students also looked at how the amount of shade and sun exposure affects the snowpack.”

– Alastair Keith, Field Institute of Taos, Taos, NM


Photo from Jewell Coleman, Mountain Studies Institute

“Bringing local youth out on our winter landscapes is a critical part of MSI’s mission to connect community to their natural landscapes. Historically, we have seen higher volumes of forest and water field trips during warmer times of year, but getting those students out in the snow connects them to the pivotal moment for our SW water system. We connect them to our mountains water bank, and help to teach them how the snow throughout our winter will change how we live through our spring, summer, and fall. Seeing the students expand their comfort levels in the outdoors while getting a better understanding of their mountain systems and what it means for their communities is a highlight of my job here at MSI.”

-Jewell Coleman, Mountain Studies Institute staff


SnowSchool field trips to Glacier National Park Conservancy. Photo by Gracie Regala.

“Ranger Liz took us out on the snowshoeing adventure and taught us so much. The activities were fun, held the childrens’ attention and taught them a lot about the animals that live in Glacier National Park. I think all who attended learned something. I’ve been teaching 32 years and this was an exceptional field trip. Thank you for all the effort, energy, and talent that you put into today.”
-1st grade teacher from Rankin Elementary, Kalispell, MT
“When we got back to the school, the kids couldn’t stop talking about things they learned and the activities. Their favorite facts were learning how snow was made and what animals do during the winter.”
-2nd grade teacher from Big Fork Elementary, Big Fork, MT


Photo from Sarah Schuh at Turnagain Arm National Heritage Area (KMTA NHA)

The SnowSchool program in Alaska’s Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm National Heritage Area more than doubled in size this year!
“I learned that Whoomp is bad”
“I learned how to detect avalanches and where the layers are”
“I learned that animals use snow to survive”
“SnowSchool is AWESOME!!”
“I am proud because that was my first field trip and it is fun!”
“Today is the best day ever”


Photo from Greta Wilkening in Logan, UT

A bit of a rough snow year didn’t stop the snowshoe explorations for teachers and students at Stokes Nature Center in Logan, UT.
but I’ve attached a photo from one of our programs (2nd grade: Snowshoe Exploration) and here’s a quote from a teacher that came along on a snowshoe program:
“For the majority of my students, this was their first experience snowshoeing and for some it was their first experience doing any outdoor activity in the snow besides playing at recess. I am so grateful we got to give them this adventure today!” ….“Thank you for being so engaging and so patient! We loved it. The kids asked if we can go snowshoeing everyday!”
-2nd grade teacher


Photo from Nick Mitchell at SWEP

At the Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships (SWEP) Winter Discovery Center in Tahoe City, they’ve introduced over 400 kids this season in the Tahoe Truckee area to snow science.
We taught lessons about watersheds and the snow water equivalent, which materials are best at keeping us warm, how to build snow shelters and survive a storm, why scientists keep track of our snowpack, what causes avalanches, animal and plant winter adaptations, the subnivean zone, and more! Let it snow!

-Nick Mitchell, Field Instructor at SWEP


Video from David Page, Winter Wildlands Alliance Executive Director in Mammoth Lakes, CA

In California’s Sierra Nevadas, Sierra Forever, Friends of the Inyo, partners and volunteers unite in ‘it takes a village’ spirit to teach local kids about snow science.

“It’s a wonderful experience for them to get outside and learn about our local area and science in a very hands-on way,”

-Meghan Avila, Bishop Elementary fifth grade teacher who was participating in SnowSchool for the fifth time, but for the first time together with her fifth-grade daughter, Eliana.

“It’s actually hard to keep up with them. They’re excited, they’re curious, and they’re trying to get ahead of us.”

-Mark Bir, first-time volunteer of Bishop, CA


Newspaper article featuring SnowSchool at Basin Elementary in Idaho City, ID

In Central Idaho, students at Basin Elementary ventured out into their local winter wildlands on snowshoes, turning snow-covered forests into living classrooms.

Kindergarteners followed animal tracks in the snow. Fourth graders became citizen scientists, measuring snowpack depth and contributing to real-world research.  Meanwhile, 6th graders examined the geospatial variability of mountain snow and discussed nearby SNOTEL data , gaining firsthand insight into the science behind their local watershed.

This year’s Snow School experience was one of the best for our students!

– Jamie Pilkerton, Basin Elementary Principal

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Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes.

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]]> 40211 SnowSchool Reaches Rural Communities https://winterwildlands.org/snowschool-for-rural-communities/ Fri, 14 Feb 2025 17:46:36 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=40131 SnowSchool is making winter learning come alive for rural students! See how Basin Elementary in Idaho is using snowshoe adventures, citizen science, and a new outdoor yurt to bring hands-on STEM education to life.

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SnowSchool Reaches Rural Communities

SnowSchool is making winter learning come alive for rural students! See how Basin Elementary in Idaho is using snowshoe adventures, citizen science, and a new outdoor yurt to bring hands-on STEM education to life.




Photo Credit Basin Elementary



From Kerry McClay, National SnowSchool Director (2/19/25)

In the heart of Central Idaho, students at Basin Elementary aren’t just bundling up to stay warm—they’re stepping outside to learn.

Throughout January, K-6 students from Basin Elementary in rural Central Idaho ventured out into their local winter wildlands on snowshoes, turning snow-covered forests into living classrooms.

Kindergarteners followed animal tracks in the snow. Fourth graders became citizen scientists, measuring snowpack depth and contributing to real-world research.  Meanwhile, 6th graders examined the geospatial variability of mountain snow and discussed nearby SNOTEL data , gaining firsthand insight into the science behind their local watershed.

This hands-on, outdoor learning is part of the district’s years-long effort to integrate SnowSchool’s unique outdoor science explorations across all grade levels. Engaging rural school districts and utilizing the snow right outside of the classroom door has become a top priority for SnowSchool in recent years. The partnership with Basin Elementary is a perfect example of how this vision is coming to life.

A Grassroots Effort with Big Impacts

At the Basin School District this is a project with grassroots beginnings. What started as a snowshoe adventure for Basin’s fourth graders in 2017-18—led by SnowSchool, Boise National Forest hydrologists, and dedicated teachers—has since snowballed into something much bigger.

What has followed in the years since has included a district wide SnowSchool professional development workshop, and ongoing collaboration with snow science researchers and a full  STEM School accreditation for Basin Elementary!

Basin Elementary teachers and students alike are feeling the magic of SnowSchool.

We greatly appreciate all of the support you provided to staff and students! This year’s Snow School experience was one of the best for our students! Our teachers learned more about what Snow School should be and they are feeling much more confident for future times. Our students are still talking about it and we are continuing with follow-up lessons!
– Jamie Pilkerton, Basin Elementary Principal

The next generation of snow scientists in Central Idaho are already gearing up for more discoveries ahead!

What’s next?

The next big step for SnowSchool progression at Basin Elementary is just around the corner! This spring, a large yurt will be installed to house outdoor science activities and equipment. This is program model, already used at other SnowSchool sites, has produced amazing results by giving students a dedicated space for SnowSchool. Stay tuned for more updates on this project later this spring! 





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]]> 40131 Which Way To Snowplay? https://winterwildlands.org/which-way-to-snowplay/ Wed, 08 Jan 2025 21:54:09 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=39754 Snowplay areas provide a gateway to winter fun for families and help connect communities to wild snowscapes.

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Which Way to Snowplay?

Snowplay areas provide a gateway to winter fun for families and help connect communities to wild snowscapes.


From Kerry McClay, National SnowSchool Director (1/8/25)

What is a snowplay area?

An un-developed snowplay area is one of those things where you know it when you see it— Imagine driving down a snowy mountain road and coming upon a small pullout tightly packed with a few too many parked cars. On the slope just above it, families are trying out a diverse array of sleds and bumpy sledding routes down the hill. There’s a handful of bundled up adults drinking hot coffee and watching a group of kids build a snowman. There’s a few snowballs flying through the air and even a couple of dogs happily running amok through the fresh powder. As you pass in your car you slow down, partly for safety’s sake, but also so you can get a closer look at the scene. Yes it’s borderline chaos, but they are all definitely having fun. 

Why Snowplay Areas Matter

With populations surging in mountain communities across the Western US, the need for more designated and adequately developed snowplay areas has become increasingly obvious. It seems that new residents to the region are interested in experiencing their local public lands and wild snowscapes, but many have not yet acquired the equipment, skills, or interest in taking on a more specialized winter recreation activity (such as cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or winter camping). Designated snowplay areas managed by the USFS or other land agencies typically provide plowed parking and basic bathroom facilities to help families and friends simply get outside in the winter on public land. 

“Families in California’s Central Valley gaze up at the snow-covered Sierra Nevada from their own communities, but often don’t know the safest and best way to enjoy winter recreation opportunities there. Snowplay is the most accessible form of winter recreation, but users need to know where they can go to take advantage of those opportunities. This picture is from Pinecrest Lake. It is not designated as a snow play area technically but the FS maintains bathrooms, trash service and parking for hundreds of cars.”

– Megan Fiske, WWA California Stewardship Manager

Snowplay areas can be a great first wild winter experience for families, or a great next step for kids after a SnowSchool field trip. In fact, one of the most commonly expressed sentiments we hear from kids after a first-ever snowshoe adventure at SnowSchool is a desire to return and bring their families.  So if we know where snowplay areas are then we can help direct people to appropriate places for winter fun. And if we know where new snowplay areas are most desperately needed, we can focus efforts on working with land managers in those areas to accomplish this goal.

Help People Find Snowplay Areas

To help with this we are compiling a list of known snowplay areas near our mountain communities, Winter Wildlands Alliance members, and SnowSchool sites. Help grow our list by telling us about your favorite snowplay area near you! 


Here are a few examples of known snowplay areas:



ADD YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO PLAY TO OUR LIST

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]]> 39754 SnowSchool Grows Up! https://winterwildlands.org/snowschool-grows-up/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 20:17:02 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=39363 Discover how SnowSchool has inspired students like Koson Verkler and Lily Murnane to pursue careers, passions, and stewardship in the natural world.

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SnowSchool Grows Up!

Program alumni share SnowSchool’s lasting influence on their lives and early careers



Ashley Phillips, SWEP Project Director works with SnowSchool students outside the Winter Discovery Center Yurt. Photo courtesy of SWEP

From Kerry McClay, National SnowSchool Director (12/6/24)

As Winter Wildlands Alliance’s National SnowSchool program celebrates its 25th season, we’re reflecting on the profound impact it’s had over the years. Since its inception, SnowSchool has reached over 500,000 students across dozens of communities, and many of those students are now spreading the impact far and wide. 

With so many former students now grown— pursuing college, careers, and their own outdoor adventures—we’ve begun collecting stories about the accomplishments of our former SnowSchool kids. In this first installment of “SnowSchool Grows Up,” I caught up with two former students at our longtime SnowSchool site in Tahoe City, California, hosted by Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships (also known locally as the Winter Discovery Center Yurt). Meet Koson Verkler and Lily Murnane. They are both in their final years of college, have already amassed amazing accolades, and are both dreaming big!


Photo credit Koson Verkler



Photo credit Koson Verkler

Koson Verkler

Koson Verkler is a senior at the University of Montana, majoring in Forestry with a minor in fire science and management. Growing up in North Lake Tahoe, Koson participated in SnowSchool programs at the Winter Discovery Center during his elementary and middle school years.

“I think of that as the start of my science career,”  said Verkler. “It was my first immersion in science based education and I remember learning about hydrology and snow and how the experience coincided with the drought in Tahoe. We were learning about the environment, in the environment.”

Koson loves backpacking, Nordic skiing, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, road biking, hiking, camping and wanted to choose a career path that would always allow him to be outside. Koson credits his love for the outdoors with being immersed in nature at a young age by his parents and the adults in his life. He emphasized the importance of education programs like SnowSchool in remove barriers to outdoor exploration.

“On those days everyone became an outdoorsy person because they had everything we needed from gear to clothing”.  

Koson found his way to The University of Montana and Forestry after traveling to campus and meeting with a family friend and science professor on campus.

For his summer job, Koson works with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation as a lead member of the Helitack crew out of Missoula. Now in his 3rd season as a crew member, his team mostly focuses on quickly responding to new fires in Western Montana. He recently received an Incident Commander Type 5 certification and hopes this will open doors and continue to improve his skills and experience. Looking ahead, Koson plans to continue working in fire management, with an eye toward graduate school in ecology. 

 “I think I’ll be in fire for a few more years, but then I think it would be awesome to go back to graduate school, maybe in ecology.” 

Koson has keen interest in pro active fire management and supporting and helping bring back Indigenous knowledge and burning techniques. He currently works on prescribed burning in collaboration with the Nature Conservancy in Western Montana. 




Photo credit Lily Murnane



Photo credit Lily Murnane

Lily Murnane

Lily Murnane is on the Division 1 Nordic Ski Team at Montana State University and is a senior majoring in Psychology with a minor in Coaching. Lily also competes for the Australian National Nordic Team where her mother was born.    

Lily grew up in Tahoe City CA, and as an elementary and middle school student, she attended programs at the SnowSchool site at the Winter Discovery Center. Lily remembers her early SnowSchool days fondly.

“I remember them packing all of us in a bus, driving us to the yurt so we could explore topics around snow and natural sciences. We always talked about what we can do for the environment and we always had fun in nature. It was an amazing opportunity to get out of the classroom.”

For her love of winter and the outdoors, Lily credits the her access to nature and the example set by adults in her life.

“I grew up having access to trails and nature right out my back door. Being outside is the most fun … it certainly was growing up. The snow… Some people think there is a limit… but there really isn’t. It’s such a different experience in winter. I grew up with a community of people and my parents who loved and ran the Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area.”

Those early lessons in stewardship have stuck with her.

“If we don’t protect snowscapes and our climate it affects the entire sport. We really need to increase awareness and work to protect the places we ski.” 

As Lily looks toward her final collegiate season, her goals are ambitious.

“It is my senior year and I am shooting for a Top 20 in my college racing circuit. I was introduced to the Australian racing scene through my mom, and I’ve been connected with and racing for the Australian National Team since. I want to keep that up and try to qualify for the World Cup. Also one of my goals is to compete in the World U23 Championships in Italy this year.”

After graduation, Lily plans to explore a career in coaching and possibly pursue graduate school.






Photo courtesy of SWEP


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Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes.

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]]> 39363 Indigenous Wisdom and the World Under the Snow https://winterwildlands.org/traditional-ecological-knowledge-and-snowschool/ Mon, 02 Dec 2024 16:58:41 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=39308 Bazile Minogiizhigaabo Panek provides Snowschool with an overview of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and insights into the Ojibwe understandings of anaamaagon, the world under the snow. 

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Indigenous Wisdom and the World Under the Snow

Ojibwe Elders bring Traditional Ecological Knowledge to SnowSchool



Photo courtesy of Cable Natural History Museum

By Kerry McClay, National SnowSchool Director (12/4/24)

Last week at our 5th Annual National SnowSchool Conference, over 70 SnowSchool educators and program coordinators from around the country gathered to share ideas and hear about the latest SnowSchool developments, including a special presentation about Traditional Ecological Knowledge of the subnivean (under-snow) ecosystem.

Cable Natural History Museum, a long standing SnowSchool site, recently partnered with Ojibwe Elders and Traditional Ecological Knowledge Consultants to create a new interactive exhibit— Anaamaagon: Under the Snow. Bazile Minogiizhigaabo Panek of Good Sky Guidance and member of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, provided Snowschool Conference attendees with an overview of Traditional Ecological Knowledge, details about the Anaamaagon exhibit, and insights into the Ojibwe understandings of anaamaagon, the world under the snow. 

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK)

“Traditional Ecological Knowledge is wisdom derived from Indigenous peoples’ direct and continued interaction with our environment”  Panek told the group, “It’s a knowledge system that has been around for a very long time and the knowledge continues to build.”

While Western Science tends to view the world through a microscope, Traditional Ecological Knowledge emphasizes a holistic view and respects interdependent relationships. Panek also explained how the Anaamaagon exhibit was developed using the Two Eyed Seeing Model, a way of integrating the strengths of Traditional Ecological Knowledge with the strengths of Western Science.  


Inside the Anaamaagon Exhibit

The Anaamaagon exhibit was designed to complement Cable Natural History Museum’s typical snow science explorations with an invitation to young learners to “shrink down” and explore the hidden realm under the snow for themselves.  After slipping down a slide into the exhibit or entering through the archway, visitors discovered artistic renditions of many of their favorite snow dwelling beings. This included grouse, marten, chipmunk, and many others. 


Ojibwe names of the flora and fauna who live anaamaagon are an essential part of the exhibit. Audio recordings from elders enrich the experience with oral teachings, such as:

  • The Ojibwe story of how chipmunks got their stripes, shared by Val Barber (Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa).
  • Stories describing the impact of climate change on snow cover.

You can read more about this, listen to recordings of the Ojibwe language and view the museum’s Anaamaagon exhibit guide here (Note: Teachers can order copies of the exhibit guide for their classrooms for the cost of shipping!). 


LEARN MORE


Image courtesy of Cable Natural History Museum



Photo courtesy of Cable Natural History Museum

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]]> 39308 Weak Winter or Feeling Snow-ptimistic? Seasonal Predictions from SnowSchool https://winterwildlands.org/2024-snowschool-predictions/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 06:54:09 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=39034 Whatever amount of snowfall Old Man Winter (or in this case La Niña) decides to bring forth this season, we are keeping our mittens crossed for deep snow!

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Weak Winter or Feeling Snow-ptimistic? Seasonal Predictions from SnowSchool

Whatever amount of snowfall Old Man Winter (or in this case La Niña) decides to bring forth this season, we are keeping our mittens crossed for deep snow!


Photo from NASA

By Kerry McClay, WWA SnowSchool Director (November 6, 2024)

It’s the early snow season, and we here at Winter Wildlands Alliance and SnowSchool have been getting a lot of questions about what our predictions are for the winter’s snowfall. When you are a winter-focused organization it naturally means you have special insight into the happenings of one of the most powerful, yet elusive, forces of nature on the planet. But it also tends to mean that, at least in the eyes of the general public, you are partially responsible for winter weather. So whatever amount of snowfall Old Man Winter (or in this case La Niña) decides to bring forth this season, we at WWA are simultaneously preparing to raise our frost-covered mittens in wintry triumph and/or apologize in slush-induced shame.

With the current NOAA chatter leaning toward the emergence of a “weak La Niña” pattern, it might seem like science is suggesting we should mostly plan on the latter scenario. But sit tight Snow White! More than one interpretation is possible…

What is a “weak La Niña” winter? 

First off, in quick review, La Niña describes the global weather pattern that follows when ocean temps in the equatorial Pacific are cooler than average. This is the opposite of El Niño, which happens when ocean temps are warmer than average. During a typical La Niña winter in North America, the polar jet stream blasts across the northern United States bringing cold air and precipitation, while the southern United States is drier and warmer than average.

While last winter in North America saw an El Niño pattern, the previous three were La Niña events (read more about the rare Triple Dip La Niña here).

A “weak La Niña” occurs when Pacific ocean temps are only mildly cooler than normal, between -0.9° and -0.5°, compared to strong La Niña events (-1.5°C). These events typically form later in the fall and may fade by the end of winter, unlike stronger La Niña patterns, which can last well into the calendar year. For this season, the forecasted mild La Niña might signal a wetter winter in northern regions and a drier, warmer season in the southern U.S.

A big positive of  this forecast for a mild La Niña is that our friends in the Great Lakes region can look forward to the end of their drought! But the glass-is-half-empty snow prediction would suggest a dry and warm winter in the southern United States and a slightly wetter than average winter up north. Ho-hum.


El Niño and La Niña graphic from NOAA

Snow Predictions from SnowSchool’s Favorite Snow Scientists:

Here at WWA we keep tabs on our favorite snow scientists—the experts who’ve helped us create hands-on snow science learning experiences for over 500,000 SnowSchool kids, especially when they make us smile with predictions about an impending big snow year! Here is what they are predicting for this season:

  • Ron Abramovich, retired head of the Idaho NRCS Snow Survey program, sees this year’s predictions in a multi-year context. “Strong or weak La Niña, it doesn’t really matter for years following a strong El Niño like last year. Years that follow seem to have a lot of energy to release,” says Abramovich. 
  • Hans-Peter Marshall of NASA SnowEx program and the BSU CryoGARS group agrees, saying, “I’m going with Ron Abramovich… it might be most similar to 2017—hoping for a big year!”

“Nothing can be guaranteed,” Abramovich elaborated,  “but with wild weather around us, there is no reason not to expect the extreme and wild weather to continue. We are not living in the calm and quiet doldrum years like the early 2000s.  Pete Parsons from Oregon Department of Forestry takes an analytical approach, looking at past years with similar Pacific Ocean and atmospheric conditions. His analog years are 1967, 1993, and 2017—all of which brought near-normal to above-average snow years in central Idaho, with 2017 being a huge winter with 45 Atmospheric Rivers hitting the West coast.”

 


NRCS Snow and Water Interactive Map!

A fun experiment is to grab those years that match current conditions and plug them into the NRCS Interactive SNOTEL Map. For example, 2017 was relatively slow to start but really started to snowball mid winter. By April 1st you can see on the NRCS SNOTEL map (above) that almost every river basin across the western US was at or above the median historical snowpack level. April 1 is the date snow hydrologists have historically used to measure a season’s cumulative snowpack. And above average snowpack levels in many western watersheds were also observed for April 1st in 1993 and 1967.  So bring on the snow!

It’s important to clarify that not all snow researchers in all locations are anticipating an enormous snow year.


Data from NRCS SNOTEL

  • David Foster-Hill of Community Snow Observations (a citizen science project focused on backcountry snowpack depth) weighed in with a prediction for his home range in Central Oregon. After running an analysis of his local Mt Hood SNOTEL station data (left) comparing El Niño to La Niña winters, he pointed out that most La Niña years are above the median snowpack. “Sure there is plenty of variability… but on average La Niñas are good to us…. Do I feel good about the ski season? I have already waxed my skis, if that is any indicator.”

In summary, it is still early to tell just how snowy this winter will be, but the signs are leaning toward at least a slightly above-average season in some areas. Whether you’re feeling “snow-ptimistic” or cautious, get ready to embrace whatever Old Man Winter brings our way!

What are your predictions for this season? Let us know, and let’s hope for deep snow!



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Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes.

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]]> 39034 BCFF 2024-25: Mammoth Lakes & Bishop, CA https://winterwildlands.org/bcff-eastern-sierra-2024/ Tue, 22 Oct 2024 03:28:47 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=38915 Tickets on sale for Mammoth Lakes, CA and Bishop, CA!

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20th Annual Backcountry Film Festival – Eastern Sierra

Grab your friends, come out and immerse yourself in a night of short films celebrating the power and spirit of humans in winter. Hosted by Friends of the Inyo (Bishop) and Sierra Forever (Mammoth). All funds support Eastern Sierra SnowSchool for over 300 local 5th graders from Bishop and Mammoth Elementary Schools. Tickets on sale now!

Mammoth Lakes, CA


Thursday, December 12
US Forest Service Auditorium
Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center
Doors at 6pm, Films at 7pm


TICKETS

Bishop, CA


Saturday, December 14
Bishop Twin Theatre
237 N. Main Street
Doors at 6pm, Films at 7pm


TICKETS

Can’t make it to either event? You can still support SnowSchool!

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]]> 38915 Trail Break Radio: Inside SnowSchool with Kerry McClay https://winterwildlands.org/trail-break-radio-episode-11-kerry/ Thu, 03 Oct 2024 03:42:23 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=38711 Kerry is on the podcast! How do we break down barriers to winter access and inspire the next generation of outdoor stewards? What does it take to connect 35,000 kids annually to snow, science, and conservation?

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“Inside SnowSchool with Kerry McClay”

Our SnowSchool Director, Kerry, is on the podcast!


“If you’re going to have public land, you really need to think about creating opportunities for all folks to have some kind of meaningful experiences in those places. If the land truly belongs to all of us, we need to foster that.”


How do we break down barriers to winter access and inspire the next generation of outdoor stewards? What does it take to connect 35,000 kids annually to snow, science, and conservation?

Find out in the latest episode of Trail Break Radio as Life in Motion podcast host Jeremy Lux chats with our very own Kerry McClay, national director of SnowSchool, for an in-depth conversation on connecting kids to their local winter wildlands, snow science, and conservation in a way that’s fun, educational, and life-changing.

In this special crossover episode, by Life in Motion, Kerry talks about his childhood adventures, his journey into outdoor education, and how SnowSchool introduces kids to winter through hands-on snow science and outdoor exploration. Kerry discusses the program’s growth into a national initiative, how it’s making a difference, and why it’s essential to foster a lifelong connection to nature.

Kerry also takes listeners behind the scenes, sharing insights into how SnowSchool has adapted over the years, what a typical day looks like for students, and the importance of ensuring kids from all backgrounds have access to winter experiences. Whether you’re a parent, educator, nonprofit leader, or simply someone who loves winter, this episode will leave you inspired to explore snow.

What is SnowSchool?

Since its inception over two decades ago, SnowSchool has introduced more than 500,000 kids across diverse communities to the magic of winter wildlands. Today, the program operates at 70 sites nationwide, giving students from kindergarten through high school the chance to explore snowy landscapes on snowshoes. Combining adventure with STEM-based lessons in hydrology, winter ecology, and wildlife tracking, SnowSchool engages students with cutting-edge NASA snow science, helping them understand the vital connection between snowpack and the water they rely on every day.

But SnowSchool is about more than just science. It’s about breaking down barriers to winter recreation for kids who might otherwise never experience it. During the 2023-2024 season, 53% of participants came from underserved communities, including Title 1 schools, tribal and rural schools, special education and adaptive programs, and refugee populations. Through SnowSchool, these students not only experience the beauty of winter but build a lifelong connection to the outdoors, inspiring the next generation to care for wild spaces.

Meet Kerry McClay

Kerry joined Winter Wildlands Alliance in 2013 after helping establish the National Flagship SnowSchool site with Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area and the Boise National Forest. Kerry is a graduate of the University of Montana and Prescott College, and completed a Doctorate of Education at Boise State University. Working collaboratively with snow scientists and educators, Kerry designed the innovative SnowSchool curriculum now utilized across the US snow-belt to introduce thousands of children to the joy of exploring their local winter wildlands every season. Kerry lives in Boise and enjoys being outside whenever possible with his wife and their young daughter.

To hear more from Kerry about his journey and the transformative work of SnowSchool, listen to the full episode of “Inside SnowSchool with Kerry McClay”on Trail Break Radio.


“It has a way of really evoking their imagination and sense of wonder and curiosity about this whole winter world. If you do it the right way, kids really quickly realize it’s just full of mystery and magic and really exciting science.”



If you’re interested in sponsoring an Episode of Trail Break Radio. Email Emily Scott at escott@winterwildlands.org to become a Backcountry Partner.




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Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes.

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]]> 38711 Celebrating SnowSchool’s Milestone Year Reaching Half a Million Students https://winterwildlands.org/snowschool-2023-24-season-wrap-up/ Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:54:17 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=37659 This winter SnowSchool engaged over 35,000 youth and K-12 participants across 72 active program sites nationally. Over 68% were first time snowshoers!

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Celebrating SnowSchool’s Milestone Year Reaching Half a Million Students

Reflecting on the successes and growth of SnowSchool 2023-24—the impact is undeniable.



Another successful SnowSchool season has concluded, introducing thousands of students across the U.S. to snow science and the joy of exploring their local winter wildlands!

Thanks to your ongoing support, SnowSchool has now engaged over 500,000 students since the program launched just over two decades ago. This incredible milestone would not be possible without you; thank you!


Photo courtesy of Bogus Basin


Photo courtesy of SnowSchool

What was SnowSchool’s impact during 2023-2024?

After completing our annual survey of SnowSchool sites, we estimate that SnowSchool engaged over 35,000 participants across 72 active SnowSchool sites spanning 17 states!  This winter, approximately 53% of participating students qualify as underserved, including students from Title 1 schools and many diverse, underrepresented populations. Over 68% of students were first-time snowshoers.

What did the participants have to say?

“I loved snowshoeing, when can we do this again?”

-5th grade SnowSchool student

“For the majority of my students, this was their first experience snowshoeing and for some it was their first experience doing any outdoor activity in the snow besides playing at recess. I am so grateful we got to give them this adventure today!”

–Elementary teacher 

How Are We Increasing Support for Underserved Kids?

At Winter Wildlands Alliance, we believe every child should have the opportunity to take in the beauty of a wild winter landscape and experience the sense of wonder it inspires.

However, snow and cold weather can magnify barriers to experiencing the outdoors. To counteract this, we have worked with our SnowSchool partners at MSR to provide hundreds of discounted snowshoes, hands-on snow science learning tools, and winter clothing for kids in SnowSchool site communities across the country. We have also bolstered fundraising support for local SnowSchool programs, worked to offset transportation costs, and provided cutting-edge NASA snow science resources for our educators.


Photo courtesy of SnowSchool

Thank you for helping build a thriving national SnowSchool program that is on track to introduce generations of kids to the wonders of wild winter exploration. With your ongoing support, we can achieve that vision and work to enhance the experience for every child. We could not do this without you!

Learn more about SnowSchool here.



The post Celebrating SnowSchool’s Milestone Year Reaching Half a Million Students appeared first on Winter Wildlands Alliance.

]]> 37659 SnowSchool for LGBTQ+ Youth https://winterwildlands.org/lambert-house-snowschool-pride-2024/ Wed, 05 Jun 2024 19:07:34 +0000 https://winterwildlands.org/?p=37637 Join us in celebrating Pride Month by supporting Lambert House, one of our new SnowSchool sites.

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SnowSchool for LGBTQ+ Youth

Join us in celebrating Pride Month by supporting Lambert House!




Photo courtesy of Lambert House

(6/5/2024)


At Winter Wildlands Alliance, we believe in the power of the outdoors to bring people together, foster personal growth, and build inclusive communities. This Pride Month, we are excited to introduce you to one of our new SnowSchool sites, Lambert House. Lambert House is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth in Seattle, and we are thrilled to support them through SnowSchool. 

About Lambert House

Lambert House provides a safe place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ+) youth ages 10-22. At Lambert House, LGBTQ+ youth make life better for each other. With range of programs, Lambert House empowers young people to explore their identities and build friendships while developing leadership, social, and life skills.

Lambert House and SnowSchool

In 2023, Lambert House joined Winter Wildlands Alliance’s national network of SnowSchool program sites to help their long-standing snowshoe and outdoor recreation program make a comeback following the pandemic. “We are rebuilding in-person programs,” said Program Director, Brandon Knox, noting that they could especially use assistance with “fundraising, equipment, and curriculum.” This past winter, the program successfully rebounded, taking a handful of youth out on snowshoes!

The program aims to continue growing, and Winter Wildlands Alliance is dedicated to supporting this effort and increasing material support for SnowSchool sites in local communities everywhere.  

Supporting Lambert House

By supporting Lambert House as they launch their SnowSchool program, you can help provide LGBTQ+ youth with transformative winter experiences that foster a sense of community and belonging.

  • Donate: Visit their website to make a contribution. 
  • Share: Spread the word about Lambert House and their work by following and sharing their posts on Instagram. 
  • Get Involved: If you live in the Seattle area, check out their volunteer opportunities.

SUPPORT LAMBERT HOUSE


At Winter Wildlands Alliance, we strive to ensure that all people, regardless of race, color, gender identity, sexuality, cultural background, or socioeconomic status, have equitable access to the awe, solitude, wildness, clean air, and natural soundscapes of winter.

Thank you for celebrating Pride Month with us by supporting Lambert House!



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Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes.

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