A Glaciological Reconnaissance of the Columbia Glacier, Alaska

Abstract

Reports 1955 and 1957 investigations of this glacier in the Chugach Mts. near Valdez. Snow depths (less than expected), accumulation, and ablation (greatest on warm, windy days) were studied at 3180-9500 ft on the main and east branches. Variations in snow depth with altitude and location on the glacier were also examined. Accumulation-ablation ratios, compared for various parts of Columbia and for some other Alaskan glaciers, indicate that the main branch is gaining and the east branch losing strength. The beginning of a new crevasse, also a large ice avalanche were seen in 1957.