Opportunity for Comment: Modernization of the NWS Cooperative Observing Program (COOP)

We want to hear from you! The National Weather Service is planning to modernize its Cooperative Observer Program (COOP) network by harnessing new technology, optimizing observation sites and leveraging high-quality commercial data. Weigh in on our recently-published Request for Comment!

For over 130 years, this network of volunteer citizen observers has provided essential daily surface meteorological data that supports both operational NWS products and the nation's authoritative historical climate records. As part of our planning process, the NWS has published a Request for Comment (RFC) in the Federal Registry to solicit public and stakeholder input. We are reaching out to ensure your feedback is captured. Comments are accepted until June 8, 2026. Please share widely!

Why Modernize?

The existing network faces sustainability challenges due to aging manual equipment and rising maintenance costs. Our modernization objectives include:

• Transforming Observations: Leveraging commercial sensor technology to increase data volume and provide near-real-time reporting.

• Optimizing the Footprint: "Right-sizing" the network to address geographic data deserts while minimizing redundancy.

• Creating Efficiencies: Reducing volunteer and field office burden through automation and easier-to-maintain sensors.

Your Feedback is Critical

We specifically seek input on:

• How you or your organization currently utilizes COOP data.

• The utility of shifting from daily to sub-hourly, near-real-time reporting.

• Considerations for optimizing the network footprint.

• Attitudes toward supplementing the federal network with state mesonet or other commercial surface observations.

We encourage you to share this opportunity with your partners and constituents. Your feedback will directly help shape the future of the COOP network to ensure it meets evolving operational and stakeholder needs.