BOZEMAN- During the government shutdown, avalanche centers across the United States have been granted an exception to stay open.
In past shutdowns, the centers have always stayed open because they are considered essential staff for safety. Daily avalanche advisories will still be posted and employees are continuing to go into the field to keep everyone up to date on the conditions.
“With the snowpack that we have, it’s really important for people to stay up on what is happening with the snow,” Director of Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center Doug Chabot said.
“Especially now over the holidays, people from all over the country are coming to southwest Montana, they’re getting out in the backcountry snowmobiling and skiing, and it’s really important for them to get good, relevant information about the snow so they can stay safe,” Chabot added.
Chabot wants to remind everyone to be careful while enjoying the outdoors and to check the avalanche advisory that is posted every day by 7:30 am.
