Scientists collecting snow core sample on Sperry Glacier in Glacier National Park, Montana

Scientists collecting snow core samples on Sperry Glacier in Glacier National Park, Montana. Snow core measurements help scientists determine snow density, which is used to determine the mass balance of Sperry Glacier. Sperry Glacier occupies a broad, shallow cirque situated just beneath and west of the Continental Divide in the Lewis Mountain Range of Glacier National Park, Montana. Due to its position on the Continental Divide the glacier is influenced by both maritime and continental air masses. Sperry Glacier was chosen as the benchmark study glacier due to its history of previous research, physical characteristics, and accessibility.