Weather Modification Could Solve Some Water Resource Problems

Bartos, Michael J.; ,

Weather Modification Could Solve Some Water Resource Problems

by Michael J. Bartos, Jr., (A.M.ASCE), Asst. Editor; CIVIL ENGINEERING�ASCE, New York, N.Y.,

Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1978, Vol. 48, Issue 9, Pg. 107-109

Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

On July 12, 1978 the Weather Modification Advisory Board submitted its final report to the Secretary of Commerce. The report proposes a national program for weather resources management, the program to be managed by a federal Board with considerable autonomy as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Funding would be $37,000,000 for the first year, more than twice the amount now being spent, and would rise to $90,000,000 by the fifth year. Although agriculture stands to gain the most from weather modification, water-resources, energy and transportation sectors could also benefit greatly. The report states that by the 1980's cloud seeding could be sufficiently developed and reliable enough to increase mountain snow and midwest rain by 10% to 30%. Increasing precipitation could help compensate for year-to-year variations in rainfall, although it could not be expected to relieve droughts. Additional water could be provided for power generation, irrigation and municipal uses.

Return to search