In this episode, we explore the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES). We speak to Grant Statham, who developed ATES while working for Parks Canada. Grant discusses its development, creation of ATES ratings maps, and its evolution. Next, we talk to John Sykes, an avalanche forecaster, about his work creating automated ATES maps. Auto ATES significantly reduces the time needed for creating human-generated maps, allowing for further fine-tuning with local knowledge. Lastly, we chat with Andy Sovick about Beacon Guidebooks. Andy and his guidebook authors have incorporated ATES into their products, which aids in backcountry tour planning.

Grant Statham:

Grant Statham is a mountain guide, climber, and avalanche forecaster based in Canmore, Alberta. He works for Parks Canada with a team of mountain guides that handle avalanche forecasting and search and rescue in Banff, Yoho, & Kootenay National Parks. He develops risk-based systems, is an adjunct professor at Simon Fraser University, and an Arcteryx Ambassador for 25 years.

John Sykes:

John began his career as an avalanche professional in 2011. After completing an MSc at the Snow and Avalanche Laboratory, he has been working on a PhD with the Simon Fraser University Avalanche Research Program. John is a member of the board of directors of the Alaska Avalanche School and a professional member of the American Avalanche Association.

Andy Sovick:

Andy, originally from Fort Collins, moved to Durango and graduated from Fort Lewis College. In 2005, he and his wife Gail moved to Crested Butte. While working as a timber-framer, Andy created the "Off-Piste Ski Atlas" for the Crested Butte area in 2013 and the Silverton zone in 2014. In 2015, he founded his publishing company.

Socials:

The Avalanche Hour Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theavalanchehourpodcast/

Grant Statham -

Links:

WySAW talk - https://vimeo.com/769917679

Sponsors for this episode:

Wyssen : https://www.wyssenavalanche.com/en/

Crew:

Host - Caleb Merrill

Producer - Cameron Griffin - https://www.instagram.com/backcountrycam/

Donate:

The Avalanche Hour Podcast - https://www.theavalanchehour.com/donate

The American Avalanche Association - https://www.americanavalancheassociation.org/donate