This improved affinity for impressions is due to the softening of the soil resulting from snow melt or rainfall. The soil retains sufficient moisture for impressions to be recorded and located. Early Spring snowmelt softens the ground. Spring rainfall creates soft, muddy ground. Early Fall rainfall softens the dry, summer-baked ground.
Fresh snowfall depicts impressions in sharp contrast to the smooth snow cover.
There are several professional societies devoted to Tracking and Sign Cutting. These organizations share and promote the skill to read and interpret track and sign evidence. They use their discipline to direct and assist search and rescue operations and law enforcement agencies. Training courses for continuing education and for new members are offered by a number of these organizations. The Pacific Northwest Trackers Assoc.