Contract Weather Observer Program Ending

[gloomy_weather]

Based on the attached power point from the western region, the whole CWO (Contract Weather Observer) program at A & B service standard airports will end by this summer.

First of the cuts - May 1, 2013

Alaska sites may be spared.

All remaining airports will transition to C level observing (LAWRS), to include back up of failed sensors. This service will be provided by ATC.

Central and Eastern regions should hear shortly.

 

[Phaedrus]

Thanks Gloomy, appropriate name, too. Looks legit...

 

[stormpilgrim]

The abundance of government "alphabet soup" in it does give it that official feel. Where did you even find this and where do we look for updates? Do our contractors even know about this yet? They're going to go through the hassle and expense of setting up their new CWO stations by 4/1 for what will amount to a one month contract for some? Given the state of our government, this is just stupid enough to be true.

 

[rhiannon]

Anybody have any new news on this???????????
anxiously awaiting to know???
totally sucks if its true

 

[aero47]

My Class 'A' site is preparing to close May 31 or possibly a month or two later. Have not heard anything about the Alaska Stations staying open, but the NAVY/MARINE SITES with Forecaster/Observers will stay open with a Military Contract. The Navy still believes safety comes first, and will continue manning ASOS with human hands (augmenting)