RF reflection from ground through dense snow

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the need for an efficient method to measure the depth of dense snow, particularly man-made snow, at a BC ski hill. Traditional mechanical boring methods are deemed slow and inaccurate, while GPS-based solutions require expensive infrastructure. Participants suggest utilizing ground penetrating radar (GPR) as a viable alternative for measuring snow depth, specifically within a range of 30 to 200 cm. Recommendations include conducting further research on GPR equipment tailored for snow applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ground penetrating radar (GPR) technology
  • Familiarity with snow density measurement challenges
  • Knowledge of GPS mapping limitations
  • Basic principles of RF reflection
NEXT STEPS
  • Research ground penetrating radar equipment suitable for snow measurement
  • Investigate specific GPR models and their applications in snow density analysis
  • Explore the impact of snowpack density variations on RF measurements
  • Review case studies of GPR use in winter sports environments
USEFUL FOR

Ski resort operators, snow measurement technicians, and researchers in winter sports technology will benefit from this discussion, particularly those seeking efficient methods for snow depth assessment.

MThornton
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Hello all
I work at a BC Ski-hill... what I need is a method to quickly but accurately measure the depth of dense snow (man-made snow, some might call it ice). Traditional method of mechainically boring through to ground is slow, inaccurate & messy. New GPS based methods require detailed gps mapping & a benchmarked local gps transmit station ($$$).
The goal is to be able to quickly & accurately survey the snowdepth of a wide area.

Sonic is no good, since density of the snowpack may vary widely, with interspersed ice layers.

Q1: Can a radar or other RF reflective measure quickly & accurately measure the depth of dense snowpack? Typical range 30 - 200 cm.

Q2: Any existing product relevant information would be appreciated.
 
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MThornton said:
Hello all
I work at a BC Ski-hill... what I need is a method to quickly but accurately measure the depth of dense snow (man-made snow, some might call it ice). Traditional method of mechainically boring through to ground is slow, inaccurate & messy. New GPS based methods require detailed gps mapping & a benchmarked local gps transmit station ($$$).
The goal is to be able to quickly & accurately survey the snowdepth of a wide area.

Sonic is no good, since density of the snowpack may vary widely, with interspersed ice layers.

Q1: Can a radar or other RF reflective measure quickly & accurately measure the depth of dense snowpack? Typical range 30 - 200 cm.

Q2: Any existing product relevant information would be appreciated.

Have you looked into ground penetrating radar equipment? Here's a google hit list:

http://www.google.com/search?source...301US302&q=ground+penetrating+radar+equipment

You could call up some of their technical reps to see what they have to say.
 

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