Evaluation of Transport and Fate of Snowmobile Emissions in the Snowpack and Surface Water

Snowpack in alpine environments may contain regional pollution acquired through wet and dry deposition processes, as well as from immediate sources such as snowmobile engine exhaust. Understanding the fate and transport of pollutants in alpine environments is crucial for managing emission sources to mitigate their impacts on natural resources. This study presents results from detailed chemical analysis of exhaust from snowmobiles as well as snow and surface water collected in Blackwood Canyon, a tributary to the west shore of Lake Tahoe and a popular winter recreation area for snowmobile riders.