A Canadian company is pioneering the use of drones for avalanche control instead of traditional artillery or helicopter methods. Aerial Vehicle Safety Solutions Inc. (AVSS) received government approval to test their SnowDart system for this purpose last year and conducted trials in Jasper National Park this winter. The innovative approach involves a drone carrying and dropping explosives on avalanche-prone slopes, which are then remotely detonated.
AVSS co-founder Josh Ogden emphasized the value of adding drones to the existing avalanche control toolkit. Historically, Canada has used various methods such as 105 mm howitzer guns, where the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery triggers controlled avalanches. Parks Canada also employs helicopters to strategically deploy explosives, with some locations featuring built-in remote trigger stations.
According to Ogden, drones offer advantages in inaccessible areas without traditional avalanche control infrastructure, presenting a cost-effective alternative to helicopters. This winter saw heightened avalanche control efforts in Western Canada, notably along a 43-kilometre stretch of Highway 1 in Glacier National Park managed by Parks Canada. Unprecedented snowfall and weather conditions led to an increase in road closures for avalanche mitigation compared to previous years.
Looking ahead, industries are increasingly exploring drone technology for various applications, including avalanche risk management. While drones may complement existing tools, they are not intended to replace them entirely due to weather dependency. AVSS plans to continue testing their drone system next winter, potentially expanding its use to other mountainous regions in Canada.
Brian Rode, vice-president of Marmot Basin ski resort in Jasper National Park, expressed optimism about the potential of drone technology for avalanche control. While monitoring advancements, the ski resort will continue using traditional explosive charges for avalanche mitigation in the interim.
