For the last seven years a survey has been held in late August to try and survey every remaining snow patch in order to build up a scientific log of changing conditions. This year, the organisers are calling on hillwalkers to take part on 21 or 22 August.
Survey organiser Iain Cameron says, “For the last seven years I’ve organised a late-August survey on the hills of Scotland, where we try and count up every last snow patch dotted throughout the country. In 2015, as in 2014, it is going to take a big effort by people. This is because of the amount of snow that fell in winter, coupled with the very cool summer. Where we’d normally expect to see no snow, large patches persist.
“The reason for doing this survey is to try and build up a long-term picture of whether lots of patches earlier in the season equates to survivals when lasting snow arrives. Also it’s a good reason to get out on the hill!
“Since the survey was started in 2008 we’ve had (2008-2014) 34, 35, 34, 36, 72, 81 and 281 patches. This year we again expect the number to run into hundreds, so every pair of boots that we can put out there is valuable.”
The survey runs for two days (21-22 August), and Iain informs us that it is not necessary to actually get to the snow patches, but merely to take photographs of them and forward to him. “Really, any photographs or observations are useful, so even if you’re on the hill and see a patch from afar, take a photo or make a note of where it is and let us know, even if you think it inconsequential. They all count!”
The survey will take place in the locations listed below. So if you are planning a hill-walk on those dates Iain asks that you get in touch via Twitter @theiaincameron or email on iainjamescameron@hotmail.com and he will be delighted to point you in the right direction.
1. Nevis range (any of the four 4000 footers)
2. Grey Corries (Stob Coire Claurigh, An Caisteal)
3. Glen Coe (specifically, Bidean nam Bian massif)
4. West Drumochter hills – Geal-charn (Alder), Ben Alder and Beinn Udlamain
5. Creag Meagaidh
6. Ardverikie (Beinn a’ Chlachair, Geal Charn)
7. Ben Macdui/Cairn Gorm plateau
8. Braeriach/Cairn Toul massif
10. Lochnagar
11. Beinn Bhrotain/Monadh Mòr (Cairngorms)
12. East Cairngorms (Ben Avon, Beinn a’ Bhuird)
13. Glen Affric/Strathfarrar/Mullardoch (Tom a’ Choinnich, An Riabhachan, Sgurr na Lapaich, Carn Eige etc)
14. White Mounth, including Glenshee ski area hills
15. Bridge of Orchy hills (Beinn Mhanach)
16. Mamores (Na Gruagaichean, Sgurr a Mhaim etc)
You can also read Ben Dolphin’s account of his day out with Iain Cameron in search of snow patches last year.