Mount Washington Avalanche Center

The MWAC is operated by the Androscoggin Ranger District of the White Mountain National Forest and is the only American avalanche center east of the Rockies. With the rich history of skiing and climbing here, it is also the oldest forecasting program in the country.

The Center's public safety priorities are three fold. Our first and main focus from Oct/Nov until the end of May is the daily avalanche advisory for multiple forecast areas in Tuckerman and Huntington Ravines. Once issuance of the advisory is complete each morning our minds shift to the following day's advisory involving field time and data collection. The greatest difference between the MWAC and our 18 sister Avalanche Centers in the West is our responsibility as lead agency authority for Search and Rescue. On December 1st of each year the Forest Service takes over responsibility from the State of New Hampshire for all incidents in the Cutler River Drainage on the east side of Mt. Washington which includes our entire avalanche forecast area. Our third emphasis is as an eastern professional avalanche resource for anyone who needs assistance. This entails reviewing university projects, giving talks and slide shows, participating in avalanche courses, assisting reporters, working with our volunteer search and rescue groups, etc.

For all of the Snow Rangers we never could have imagined being in an avalanche forecaster/rescuer role for a federal agency, but in hindsight it all makes sense. Love of the natural world, outdoor pursuits, and helping people have, one by one, sent us down the path of public service. Doing work we enjoy and making a positive difference for tens of thousands of people each season keeps us motivated. Succeeding as a Snow Ranger for the Mount Washington Avalanche Center takes more than technical skills, it takes a true concern and compassion for the visiting public. It accentuates the Forest Service mission of "Serving people and caring for the land".

Nationally, the role of Snow Rangers has changed dramatically over the years from field going forecasters and avalanche control specialists to administrating permits for ski areas on public lands. Retired USFS Snow Rangers visiting from Jackson Hole and Little Cottonwood Canyon have commented that we have a unique and special program that incorporates tradition and technology. We have kept important aspects of our tradition to provide the best service to our unique concentrated high visitor use.

The Mount Washington Avalanche Center's focus on field contacts with climbers, skiers, hikers, and riders to pass along recommendations and safety information is the core of our daily program. We believe these interactions are the best way to connect visitors with the land while making them aware of the multiple hazards they may encounter. Our ability to improve and meet varying demands is directly related to your questions, feedback, and suggestions over the years. Ultimately we are here for you so always feel comfortable approaching us and asking any questions you may have. Please come back to tuckerman.org frequently to get the latest safety information and we look forward to seeing you in the mountains!

Christopher Joosen,
Lead Snow Ranger