A Canadian company is revolutionizing avalanche control by utilizing drones instead of traditional artillery methods. Last year, Aerial Vehicle Safety Solutions Inc. (AVSS) received approval from the federal government to test their SnowDart system for avalanche mitigation. This winter, AVSS conducted tests in Jasper National Park, deploying drones to carry explosives up mountains and release them onto slopes for remote detonation.
Josh Ogden, co-founder of AVSS, emphasized the significance of adding drones to the array of avalanche control tools. Canada has historically employed various methods like 105 mm howitzer guns, where the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery triggers controlled avalanches with shockwaves. Parks Canada also employs helicopters to strategically drop explosives and has installed remote trigger stations on certain slopes.
According to Ogden, drones offer advantages in inaccessible areas without artillery or trigger stations, and they can be a cost-effective alternative to helicopters. The snowy season in Western Canada has seen heightened avalanche control activities due to increased snowfall. Parks Canada reported an extended closure of Highway 1 in Glacier National Park, with 191 hours of closure this winter compared to the usual 79 hours, attributed to record snowfall in December and atmospheric conditions in March.
The potential for drones in avalanche control has garnered interest from various industries. Ogden noted the increasing integration of drones in different sectors, highlighting their evolving role in safety and efficiency. While Deryl Kelly from Parks Canada acknowledged the potential of drones in managing avalanche risks, he emphasized that they cannot replace existing tools due to weather dependencies.
Looking ahead, AVSS plans to continue testing the drone technology next winter, with potential expansion to other mountainous regions in Canada. Brian Rode, vice-president of Marmot Basin ski resort, expressed optimism about the use of drones for avalanche control and indicated the ski resort’s interest in adopting the technology as it progresses. Nonetheless, traditional methods like explosive charges will remain in use at the ski hill for the time being.