Directed by Sean O'Connor - Written and Edited by Jim Aikman - Produced by Katie O'Connor & Graham Zimmerman
Made in association with
Death tolls are rising and the numbers of backcountry and inbounds snow snow sport enthusiasts continues to climb. Laura Green knows that "...There's the surface, but underneath that all, there's a whole different world that most people are completely unaware of."
3:30am comes early for most, but for Laura it's just another work day quietly saving lives. As Laura ski tour's deep into the backcountry with her beloved Huskies, she finds herself digging a snow pit and conducting a Pro Observation to gather data that will become the Northwest Avalanche Center's regional avalanche forecast.
Dave Watson's respect for Laura shines through as he recalls his time working with Laura in a "Very dangerous and dynamic environment" Dave is a legend of mountain culture with two summits of of Mt. Everest and will forever hold the title of the first person to ski the upper shoots of K2.
Since turning over a new phase of life, he is now the father of 3 young children and the co-owner of a local avalanche field certification service. Dave is no stranger to Mt. Hood's inherent dangers as he and his fellow Ski Patrol navigate the low morning light to scout the steeps and determine public safety.
Laura know's that ...the most important thing is that the team comes back safe because it's the worst nightmare to have your friends caught in an avalanche"
For that reason, Laura is one of an elite few.
A snow safety team carefully selected to traverse the snowy slopes predawn, set hand thrown dynamite charges, and release all potential avalanches before the public arrives for lift service. So much is put on the line to ensure public safety and Laura is on the front lines. Never would she guess that the most unlikely friend would be swept away in the very thing she lives to avoid..
Production Stills
Director's Note
On December 6th 2018, Laura Green lost her life in a windsurfing accident. She never had the chance to see this film. This story is dedicated to Laura and all she has done for mountain culture and public safety in the Pacific Northwest.
