After months of activity, the Avalanche Center team has returned to snow-related activities by participating in the ISSW, held from September 28th to October 2nd at the Whistler Conference Center. This biennial conference, alternating between North America and Europe, brings together researchers and professionals from around the world to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences on the study of snow and avalanches, under the theme "The Fusion of Theory and Practice".
The event featured approximately 1400 participants and 359 contributions, including oral presentations and posters. The technical program included sessions on advancements in scientific knowledge, avalanche risk management, poster sessions, specific thematic sessions on emerging sectors, and round table debates on topics such as artificial intelligence in the profession, the evolution of explosive use practices, and ice climbing.
During the field trip day, visits were made to the avalanche control program of the Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort and to engineering solutions and avalanche safety programs on the Duffey Lake Road by the Ministry of Transportation and Transit.
One of the highlighted activities was the STELLAR evening, which recognizes women who have made significant contributions to snow and avalanche science. This year, technician Montse Bacardit from the Val d'Aran was honored for her 15 consecutive years of avalanche forecasting and applied research project development, as well as Berta Aguirre, for her doctoral thesis on avalanche terrain study and risk management.
Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy the mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb, with hiking and mountain biking activities at the world-renowned Whistler Bike Park. The next ISSW will be held in Snowbird, Utah, United States, in 2028.
