NPS: Nature&Science»Networks: San Francisco Bay Area Network»Monitoring

Weather & Climate

Knowledge about weather and climate is critical because they affect not just geophysical and biological resources but ecosystem drivers and processes. Key reasons for monitoring weather and climate in network parks are because the effects can be long-lasting on (1) plant and animal populations, some of which are listed as endangered or threatened species, (2) on air and water quality, and (3) on drought and flood cycles, fires, mass wasting and other catastrophic events. Long-term weather data can also contribute to the understanding of global climate change and its effects on Network ecosystems. more >>

Monitoring Objectives

Determine variability and long-term trends in climate through daily, monthly and annual summaries of selected weather parameters (temperature and precipitation) through fully instrumented and automated sites placed in or near the parks at representative areas.

Record long-term trends in secondary climate drivers such as wind speed, humidity, dew point, fog drip, barometric pressure, and soil temperature.

Reports and Resources

Weather and Climate Inventory, San Francisco Bay Area Network

More information can be found on our Air Quality page.

Contact Information

Marcus Koenen
I & M Coordinator
415-331-5734

Link to Intranet Page (NPS only)

Monitoring Protocol

The network has operated up to 12 full weather stations and six individual rain gauges. Some are associated with a stream monitoring station.
A draft protocol has been developed by Herynk et al. (2006). The draft includes 1. detailed descriptions of NPS operated weather stations, 2. a full list of weather stations within a 50 mile radius of the parks, 2. identifies procedures to access data from NOAA and others data stations, 3. outlines processes for archiving data. A database has been developed as part of the protocol which could be used to store weather data.

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