CityStream segments

Our mountain snowpack is critical to life in the lowlands. A low snowpack can lead to water restrictions. A heavy snowpack increases the threat of flooding. Snow totals are important. But it's difficult to get an accurate measurement over vast terrain. So scientists are turning to the public for help. Backcountry skiers can become citizen scientists, using their probes to measure snow depth. Accurate data adds up to better science. Brian Callanan heads up to the mountains for a closer look.