The United States cooperative climate-observing systems: reflections and recommendations

Abstract

The system for the collection and archiving of climatic data from approximately 7000 cooperative observing stations across the United States is in need of improvement. Despite the efforts of many dedicated volunteers and professionals, suspect or incomplete data continue to enter the national climate archive. Cooperative observers need further education regarding the importance of collecting complete and accurate data. There has never been a greater need for a national climatic database of superlative quality, whether it be for investigations of climate change, meteorological research, agricultural planning and assessment, engineering, environmental-impact assessment, utilities planning, or litigation. -from Author