A team of Utah Valley University student researchers led by Dr. Matt Olson is collaborating with Sundance Ski Resort on an initiative to advance water resource research and protect Utah’s limited water resources.

Dr. Olson, assistant professor of earth science at UVU, and his research team are transcending disciplinary boundaries, spanning from snowpack analysis to hydrology studies. The strategic partnership with Sundance Ski Resort allows for a robust sampling protocol within Sundance's pristine surroundings. The resulting research benefits from access to diverse ecological settings and fosters a mutually beneficial relationship between UVU’s College of Science and the local community.

Collaborating closely with Sundance Ski Resort and the University of Utah, the project investigates the impact of various factors, including dust and black carbon deposition on snow, which can affect the hydrological dynamics of the watershed. Through meticulous analysis and experimentation, Dr. Olson's team seeks to unravel the underlying drivers of snowmelt acceleration, offering critical insights for water resource management and climate resilience.

The partnership allows UVU students to engage in fieldwork alongside industry professionals and seasoned scientists, gain firsthand experience in applied research, hone their skills, and broaden their perspectives in watershed science and environmental stewardship. Additionally, this collaboration helps Sundance fulfill its mission to conserve and preserve.

As its research progresses, the team will disseminate its findings to stakeholders, informing evidence-based decision-making and fostering a culture of environmental awareness and sustainability.