SEARCH Projects

NOAA SEARCH Element 2: Atmospheric Observatory Site Selection Building National and International Linkages

PI: Betsy Weatherhead PI: Janet Intrieri PI: Amy Stevermer PI: Taneil Uttal PI: John Calder PI: Jim Overland Institution: NOAA/ETL

Abstract

This element contains three main objectives critical to the success of SEARCH. First, information on existing environmental monitoring in the Arctic will be compiled and select data sets will be analyzed for their usefulness in providing information on trend detection. The analysis is expected to yield information about the locations, timescales, and variables most likely to allow climate trends in the Arctic to be detected. Second, the combined information about current and optimal monitoring will help suggest strategic locations for atmospheric observing stations. The ability to build off or utilize existing measurements programs and infrastructure will be considered in developing recommendations for possible locations. Third, coordination and linkages will be developed between national and international polar programs and observing networks. This coordination will assist in maximizing the SEARCH measurement program goals.