COOP Modernization: NOAA's Environmental Real-time Observation Network in New England, the Southeast, and Addressing NIDIS in the West

The modernization of the Cooperative Observer Network — now known as NOAA's Environmental Real-time Observation Network (NERON) — has begun with 103 operational stations deployed across the New England states and portions of eastern New York. Five-minute observations from these sites are available in real time following aggressive QC/QA procedures. NERON expanded into Georgia and northern Alabama during summer of 2005 where an additional 50-75 sites are under consideration. During 2006-2007, NERON will undergo a westward expansion and a focus on the Historical Climate Network sites in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado and possibly Montana. This westward shift, limited by available funds, is a response to the Western Governor's Association and their plan for a National Integrated Drought Information System. The presentation will provide many additional details including siting standards, maintenance support, and QA/QC procedures. It also will illustrate modernized data from New England, and describe the modernization years between FY07 and FY11.