High above Rogers Pass in British Columbia’s Glacier National Park, Danyelle Magnan, a mountain safety manager with Parks Canada, faces the formidable challenge of ensuring the safety of one of North America’s most perilous highway corridors. As winter storms brew and heavy snow clings to steep mountainsides, her role becomes crucial in preventing catastrophic avalanches that could threaten lives and disrupt vital travel routes.
A High-Stakes Responsibility
Magnan’s day begins long before dawn, filled with safety briefings that include her team and military personnel. Her morning routine involves meticulous assessments of weather conditions and snowpack, as well as discussing avalanche risks and objectives for the day. “I’m checking the weather, I’m checking current conditions,” she explains, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation in this high-stakes environment.
The team employs a unique method of avalanche control, relying predominantly on a C3 Howitzer— a military-grade cannon— rather than the more common helicopter-deployed strategies. This innovative approach allows them to trigger controlled avalanches regardless of weather conditions. “The beauty of the Howitzer is that it allows us to do avalanche control in any weather conditions, any visibility,” Magnan notes. This capability is particularly vital in ensuring that snow falls safely away from the highway, minimising risks to travellers.
The Avalanche Hazard Index
Rogers Pass is notorious for its avalanche hazards, boasting the highest index in Canada and the third highest in North America. In a mere 43 kilometres of highway, there are a staggering 135 avalanche paths. Magnan’s work is paramount not just for public safety, but also for protecting a significant economic corridor that includes the CPKC rail line. With each hour the highway remains closed, it is estimated that around $4 million worth of goods are impacted.
The historical backdrop of Rogers Pass adds weight to her responsibility. The site of Canada’s deadliest avalanche in 1910, which claimed the lives of 62 workers, serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that persist. A recent tool launched by Avalanche Canada highlights the seriousness of avalanche-related fatalities, demonstrating that while such tragedies are rare, they are nonetheless real and devastating.
Balancing Safety and Risk
Magnan’s role also extends beyond avalanche control; she is responsible for the safety of visitors in the backcountry. This includes coordinating complex rescue operations, such as helicopter long-line rescues and crevasse rescues. “We’re trained and practiced in many skills, and I’ve done many rescues in most of those scenarios,” she says, showcasing the breadth of her experience.
However, the emotional toll of her job is significant. Meeting families who have suffered loss carries a heavy weight. “It’s moving and it impacts you. It’s so cliché, but you don’t want to take anything for granted,” she reflects. To navigate the stresses of her demanding role, Magnan underscores the importance of self-care and mental health, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
A Passion for the Job
Nearly two decades into her career, Magnan finds motivation in the significance of her work and the camaraderie of her team. Witnessing the awe-inspiring power of avalanches is both thrilling and humbling. “I’m routinely getting to see these massive natural events happening in a way that not many people get to experience. It’s incredible and not something I take for granted,” she remarks, reflecting on the unique aspects of her position.
Her approach exemplifies the traits necessary for operating in extreme environments: a blend of self-discipline, achievement orientation, and a calmness under pressure. “What’s worked for me is really focusing on managing my stress where I can,” she states, illustrating her commitment to personal well-being alongside professional responsibility.
Why it Matters
Danyelle Magnan’s role as a mountain safety manager is not only about preventing avalanches; it encapsulates a broader commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship. Her work directly impacts the lives of countless travellers and protects vital economic interests. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, the importance of her role will only grow, underscoring the need for skilled professionals like Magnan in safeguarding our highways and communities from natural disasters.
