Gunnison County will soon benefit from a cutting-edge Gap Doppler weather radar, set to be operational by mid-September. Sponsored by the Western Water & Weather Intelligence Center (W3IC) and maintained by Advanced Radar Company (ARC), this radar aims to enhance weather and streamflow forecasting while providing early wildfire detection for the region.
The radar, stationed at Big Mesa west of Gunnison, is the first in a planned network across the Rocky Mountain region. It is the result of collaboration between Gunnison County, the Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD), W3IC, and ARC, among others. Local entities will receive valuable data in exchange for hosting the radar, which is expected to improve decision-making for water, weather, and fire management.
“This radar uses a solid state dual-polar X-band with a narrow beam for precise data,” said Neil Brackin, President of ARC. It will generate water resource, fire detection, and weather forecasting products to aid in local services and enhance regional forecasting.
Originally designed for streamflow and weather forecasting, the radar's wildfire detection capabilities have gained prominence due to the increasing frequency of fires in the West. “Our radar covers about 400 square miles, allowing it to detect smoke plumes from a distance,” said Vern Tharp, W3IC President. This technology will complement other detection methods and improve early intervention efforts.
Funded by the Colorado Wildlife Foundation at a cost of $1.2 million, this radar project includes a capital campaign to build more radars throughout the region. W3IC’s goal is to create a network of radars to provide enhanced weather data and fill gaps in existing coverage.
UGRWCD’s general manager, Sonja Chavez, noted, “This project addresses gaps in accurate weather data, improving streamflow forecasting, aiding our regional airport, supporting agricultural producers, and enhancing fire detection in our community.”
The radar's installation at Big Mesa marks a significant step forward in enhancing local weather forecasting, water management, and wildfire detection, demonstrating the value of advanced technology in rural areas.
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