Changes in snow and ice surface albedo and its impact on snow and ice area in the Wind River Range, Wyoming, USA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Glacial and snow melt in the Wind River Range, Wyoming feed headwaters for the Missouri and Colorado River Systems, covering much of the western United States. Identifying the factors that have the greatest impact on snow and ice melt is important to managing the water resources in this region. This study examined snow and ice albedo, summer temperature and precipitation, and winter precipitation as potential significant factors related to snow and ice area changes. The Mann–Kendall statistical test was used to analyze changes in surface albedo on snow and ice over time (1985 to 2016) as derived from Landsat imagery among 5 basins in the Wind River Range. As well, a stepwise regression analysis was utilized in determining the significance of albedo along with summer mean temperature, total summer precipitation, and total winter precipitation in predicting snow and ice area. Among all the variables, albedo was found to have the greatest significance in relation to snow and ice area change. The significance of albedo on snow and ice melting in the Wind River Range is likely due to a positive feedback effect coupled with possible effects from annual increases in particulates from forest fires and fossil fuel production.