Rocky Mountain Regional Snowpack Chemistry Monitoring

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• Rocky Mountain Regional Snowpack Chemistry

Researchers at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) perform annual snowpack chemistry sampling at sites throughout the U.S. Rocky Mountains, including the Loch Vale Watershed. Snowpack chemistry can serve as an indicator of air quality and can be used to anticipate a portion of annual water quality, as snowfall in the Rocky Mountains accounts for 50-70% of annual precipitation in headwater basins of this mountain range.

Researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey collect snow samples to determine snow-water equivalent.

NPS Photo

During snowfall, contaminants like ammonium, nitrate, sulfate, and mercury can be stripped from the atmosphere and accumulate in snowpacks. As snowpacks melt, the input of these contaminants into watersheds may affect aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and the quality of drinking water supply to downstream communities.

In addition to serving as an indicator of air and water quality, snowpack chemistry is known as a “vital sign” meaning it provides a good measure of ecological integrity within the park. To monitor changes over time, this project is funded by the NPS Rocky Mountain Inventory and Monitoring Network monitored by USGS.

For More Information, visit: Cleaner Snow Reveals Cleaner Air (nps.gov)

Meet the Scientist

Graham Sexstone is a Research Hydrologist in the USGS Colorado Water Science Center and Affiliate Faculty member of the Department of Geosciences at Colorado State University. He investigates snow and hydrological processes in mountainous environments of the United States that are critically important for understanding water resources and availability for the nation.

"Long-term monitoring of snow chemistry is important for understanding trends in both snow accumulation and winter atmospheric deposition within the region and especially at high elevations. This long-term dataset helps to support investigations of the effects of atmospheric deposition on local and regional ecological systems."

Last updated: November 7, 2022