Bend, Oregon, United States
My name is Aaron Hartz and I live in Bend, OR.
For a living, I work as a ski guide, climbing guide, snowpack observer, and avalanche forecaster. I also have a business to do freelance scientific field work. I am passionate about mountains, skiing, climbing, and snow.
I think it is important to be mindful of how humans are affecting the earth. Every day, I try to remind myself about people doing amazing things around the world.
Winter is my favorite time of year.
Why did you join the Community Snow Observations project last winter?
The CSO is a great program. Everyone on this earth is dependent on water. It is very interesting to see the link between mountain snow and ice and how it fits into the larger picture of the Earth’s water cycle. By joining the CSO, I can contribute to the project and help scientists gain data.
What does the term Citizen Science mean to you?
People coming together and collecting data for a good cause.
What is your experience/background in snow science?
I helped to start a type 2 avalanche center in Central Oregon. I am a snowpack observer and avalanche forecaster for the Central Oregon Avalanche Association.
Why should more people join Community Snow Observations this winter?
It is fun and a great way to get out and check out the snowpack. There are so many backcountry skiers moving through the mountains with the perfect snow depth measuring device…the avalanche probe. By making a few measurements here and there, you can help scientists to better understand the Earth’s water cycle. That is something we can all benefit from.
