The Starting Zone: At the Interface of Avalanche Science and Practice is an e-book specifically targeting avalanche professionals and advanced recreationists. The e-book is an essential resource for avalanche professionals, blending cutting-edge science with practical application for topics like snow formation in the atmosphere, snow metamorphism, and spatial variability. Building on the legacy of foundational texts like the Forest Service Avalanche Handbook, this modern, electronic format offers interactive features such as links, animations, and personalized notes. Inspired by the collaborative spirit of the International Snow Science Workshop, this book is designed as both a starting point for new avalanche professionals and a valuable update for seasoned experts. With input from leading scientists and practitioners, it’s a comprehensive, evolving guide tailored to the needs of those working to understand, forecast, and manage avalanches in a changing world.
Written by Karl Birkeland