The Utah Outdoor Adventure Commission is gearing up to enhance avalanche safety forecasting with a groundbreaking $2.7 million project aimed at improving data collection and public access to avalanche information. During a recent meeting, officials highlighted the successful passage of House Bill 90, which allows funding for avalanche safety initiatives, marking a significant step forward in addressing safety gaps in the state’s backcountry.

The ambitious project will develop a next-generation forecasting tool, starting with a prototype phase that includes deploying advanced weather station instrumentation across multiple regions, including Logan, Ogden, Uinta, Skyline, and Moab. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive dashboard for forecasters, ultimately making critical avalanche data accessible to the public.

“We’re thrilled for the support of House Bill 90, which specifically allows us to use funds for avalanche safety forecasting,” said a representative from the Utah Avalanche Center (UAC). The project is expected to diversify traffic to less crowded trails, enhancing safety and promoting mental health benefits associated with outdoor recreation.

To fund the project, the UAC is seeking $1 million from the commission, which would cover approximately 35% of the total costs. The remaining funds will come from business support, federal and private grants, and donations from interested parties. The UAC is already collaborating with various organizations, including the University of Utah and the National Weather Service, to ensure the project’s success.

As backcountry use in Utah has surged—reportedly increasing twentyfold since the onset of COVID-19—this initiative is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of outdoor enthusiasts. The commission plans to review the proposal in their upcoming meeting, with hopes that the enhanced forecasting capabilities will lead to safer and more informed outdoor adventures for all Utahns.