SNOTEL

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SNOTEL Sample Graph

SNOTEL (SNOwpack TELemetry) is an automated system of remote sensing sites that collect meteorological and snowpack data in the Western United States. The system is operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). SNOTEL sites are primarily located in mountainous regions where snowpack is a critical source of water supply.

History

The SNOTEL system was developed in the late 1970s to provide accurate and timely data on snowpack conditions. This information is essential for water resource management, flood forecasting, and agricultural planning. The system has since expanded to include over 800 sites across 13 states.

Technology

SNOTEL sites are equipped with a variety of sensors to measure snow depth, snow water equivalent (SWE), temperature, and precipitation. These sensors are powered by solar panels and batteries, allowing them to operate in remote locations. Data is transmitted via meteor burst communication to a central database, where it is processed and made available to the public.

Sensors

• Snow Pillow: Measures the weight of the snowpack to determine SWE.
• Snow Depth Sensor: Uses ultrasonic or laser technology to measure the depth of the snow.
• Temperature Sensor: Records air temperature.
• Precipitation Gauge: Measures the amount of liquid precipitation.

Applications

SNOTEL data is used by a variety of stakeholders, including hydrologists, meteorologists, agriculturalists, and recreational users. The data helps in:

• Water resource management: Ensuring adequate water supply for irrigation, municipal use, and hydropower generation.
• Flood forecasting: Predicting potential flooding events due to snowmelt.
• Agricultural planning: Assisting farmers in making informed decisions about planting and irrigation.
• Recreational planning: Providing information for activities such as skiing and snowmobiling.

Related Pages

• Natural Resources Conservation Service
• Remote sensing
• Meteorological instrumentation
• Water resource management
• Flood forecasting
• Agricultural planning
• Recreational planning

See Also

• Snowpack
• Hydrology
• Meteorology
• Climate monitoring

External Links

This USDA-related article is a stub.