Ice Column, Afton, Wyoming
Can anyone explain how this ice column erupted out of the farmland alongside U.S. Highway 89 in Afton, WY? On the way to Jackson today, I saw three of them. This one was the largest, and spouting a bit of spray out of the top every now and again. Usually, I can engage in some fool speculation leading to a hazarded guess, but this one has me completely at a loss.
Entertaining guesses also encouraged, but please keep it safe for work reading. And if you actually know something about this, how long will it be before it melts?
Comments (5)
Bored farmers + extra sprinkler pipe = Roadside attraction?
Posted by Phil | February 19, 2008 1:06 AM
Posted on February 19, 2008 01:06
Ann,
I've wondered the same thing. These are all over in Star Valley. From very large like this one to very small ones just on the side of a country road. We found a similar one last year just north of Afton last year. http://www.flickr.com/photos/desertboy/412618714/
Posted by Scott Smith | February 19, 2008 8:28 AM
Posted on February 19, 2008 08:28
I'm thinking Phil may be on the right track. Something which has moisture coming out of the top which then freezes on the outside. Shape controlled by prevailing winds; very cool one there Scott!
The thing I don't understand is I get similar things in my ice cube trays occasionally.
Posted by Harley Pebley | February 19, 2008 5:16 PM
Posted on February 19, 2008 17:16
Phil has it about right, but if you drive around a bit you will see them in residentual yards of the various towns of Star Valley also.
Let water spray all winter and it freezes. They usually melt late April or Early May.
It's a Star Valley thing! ??
Posted by Star Valley Craig | February 26, 2008 12:11 AM
Posted on February 26, 2008 00:11
I googled "afton wyoming photos" and i stumbled across your photo blog.
Coincidentally, this ice column belongs to my best friend's family. They started it to keep the water (since they're at the end of the Afton water system) from freezing. It's definitely the largest in the area. It looks like you took the photo in their driveway. I showed the photo to them. They were kinda freaked out.
Posted by Brad Kovach | March 16, 2008 6:58 PM
Posted on March 16, 2008 18:58