Sharing information to provide a safer backcountry experience for locals and visitors to Valdez.
Map of three backcountry avalanche forecast zones: Maritime, Inter-Mountain and Continental
Sarah Carter
Director and Educator
Sarah loves a good travel novel, sweet powder turns, and standing on top of mountains! She looks forward to Sunday fun days with her two sons. She also teaches avalanche classes with the Alaska Avalanche Information Center, Prince William Sound College, and UAA. Contact: [email protected]
Gareth Brown
Lead Forecaster
Gareth grew up backcountry skiing in Colorado. He moved to Valdez, AK in 2010 and currently resides in Serendipity, AK, on the north side of Thompson Pass. Gareth has spent the last 10 seasons exploring the Chugach by splitboard. He completed his Pro 2 avalanche certification in Girdwood with AAI. Contact: [email protected] / 907-255-7690
Josh McDonald
Professional Observer
Josh runs kayak tours off his sailboat during the summer, snorkels with dolphins in Mexico in the fall and spend winters and spring exploring the mountains, with over a decade at Thompson Pass. He recently completed his Avalanche Operations Level 1 in Canada and assists with local avalanche courses and producing professional observations for the Valdez Avalanche Center.
Zadie Carman
Weather Observer - Blueberry Hill
Zadie started taking weather observations for the Valdez Avalanche Center in 2021. She owns the What Do You Want bakery and End Of The Road Ren Fair, in Valdez, Alaska.
Holly Mooney
Weather Observer - Blueberry Hill
Holly is the mother of two amazing children. Some of her winter hobbies include snowboarding, riding snow machines, hiking in snowshoes, and taking in the scenery. She love exploring, adventuring and having fun with her family. She is a Valdez local, born and raised and will always call this beautiful town her home.