** IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT **

As of March 30th, COAC has suspended backcountry avalanche advisories and pro observations until further notice.

On March 23rd, Governor Brown of Oregon issued Stay at Home orders for the public regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. The directives are clear in that “to the maximum extent possible, individuals stay at home or in their place of residence.” On March 27th the Deschutes National Forest issued a closure of all developed recreation sites including trailheads and snoparks. COAC is committed to supporting our community, local emergency services, and agency partners and because of this we felt it important to cease operations as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19.   

This decision was not taken lightly. Aside from the need to maintain congruency with the Governors' orders, there are inherent risks with backcountry activities in alpine environments and it’s important to consider unnecessary exposure to COAC forecasters, first responders, and local medical staff in light of the current situation.

We look forward to getting back into the mountains and providing you all with the tools to recreate safely in the backcountry. Until then we thank you for your continued support and wish all our mountain community the best of health and wellness.

Avalanche Scholarship

The Scholarship program will not be offered during the 19/20 season

The Avy 1 Scholarship program is offering one AIARE Level 1 avalanche scholarship in partnership with Oregon Ski Guides. 

The way it works

The idea behind the scholarship fund is to increase avalanche awareness and safety in the Pacific Northwest, with a focus on the Oregon Cascades. The scholarship recipient will be given an AIARE Level 1 avalanche course for free from Oregon Ski Guides . In return, recipients will “pay forward” what they learn by spending a day at a popular backcountry access point talking to users about the merits of avalanche safety and preparedness.

How do I apply

It's easy, become a COAA member and your automatically entered. A drawing will occur at the beginning of the 18/19 season and the winner announced. Your class and trailhead day will be scheduled for the 18/19 season.

© 2019 Central Oregon Avalanche Center
2701 NW Scandia Loop
Bend, Oregon 97701
info@coavalanche.org

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