Avalanche awareness

Photo by Michael Hatch

Learn about avalanche awareness and safety at free clinic

LA GRANDE, Ore. November 9, 2016 – Eastern Oregon University’s Outdoor Adventure Program, in partnership with the Wallowa Avalanche Center, is presenting a clinic on the fundamentals of traveling safely in the winter environment where avalanche hazards exist.

The free presentation is from 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16 in Ackerman Hall, Room 210.

“There are obvious signs of an unstable snowpack that winter backcountry recreationists can be on the lookout for,” said Michael Hatch, Outdoor Adventure Program coordinator. “This class is a great opportunity to learn how to manage avalanche hazard and travel safely in the backcountry this winter.”

The clinic addresses avalanche hazard awareness, tour planning and familiarity with avalanche center advisories, basic equipment considerations and the need for skill in companion rescue.

“This presentation is packed with information for anyone who is serious about winter recreation,” Hatch added. “Snowmobile riders and backcountry skiers are especially encouraged to attend.”

Learn how to identify avalanche terrain, plan travel in avalanche terrain, the basic requirements for an avalanche, warning signs that snow is unstable, how to use information from an avalanche center and more.

The Wallowa Avalanche Center sponsors avalanche awareness presentations like this at no cost to the public. For more information contact Hatch at 541-962-3621 or mhatch@eou.edu.