The Chugach National Forest, Glacier Ranger District is currently seeking applicants for a GS1341-07 Meteorological Technician (CNFAIC Avalanche Specialist). This is a full-time  seasonal position with a minimum 5 month guaranteed tour between November and April. The duty station is located in Girdwood, AK. The vacancy announcement will be advertised as a DEMO announcement (all

The CNFAIC has wrapped up operations and will no longer be posting conditions updates. Thank you to everyone for tuning in!! It was an interestingly chilly winter with many cold outflow wind events and a snowpack which struggled to stay near 50% of normal. Please see more in our Annual Report, which can be found HERE.

The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center (CNFAIC) is suspending backcountry avalanche forecasts and field operations beginning Monday, March 30th until further notice. This decision is in response to the State of Alaska’s COVID-19 Health Mandates that are now in effect and their impact on CNFAIC field operations. This decision is not taken lightly.

So why does this social distancing thing matter, and why should young healthy skiers and snowmachiners care? And for that matter old healthy skiers and snowmachiners?

The short version:

This is real. Skiers travel and congregate in groups. So do riders. That is how coronavirus is spread. More people will die in Alaska, what we do now will determine how many. Stay local. Small groups. Wash your hands lots. Don’t touch your face. Don’t carpool. 6’. Don’t cause a SAR. Self isolate if sick. Short of breath go to the ER. Be kind.

To our backcountry friends, supporters and partners,

We regret to announce the cancellation of the March 21st Turnagain Takeover Avalanche Awareness day at Turnagain Pass. As an organization that promotes public safety, our first priority is keeping the backcountry community safe and informed. Given the nationwide spread of coronavirus, we are following the recommended guidelines to limit social gatherings. This decision was informed by the CDC, US Forest Service, Alaska State Heath and Social Services and our Friends Board of Directors and partners.

Thank you for your understanding,
CNFAIC Staff