MANCLIM Manual of Climatological Observations: foreword

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The climate of a country is based on the history of its weather elements over a long period of time. Of all the weather elements, precipitation and temperature are probably the most important. Directly and indirectly, all Canadians are affected by the amount of precipitation that falls and by temperature changes in the atmosphere. Every year, more and more Canadians from all walks of life request climatological information. To provide this information, the Meteorological Service of Canada (MSC) maintains various surface networks of weather stations in all parts of the country. Some surface weather stations are operated by full-time meteorological personnel who make frequent and detailed weather observations; some are reported by automatic dataloggers while others are operated by co-operative climate network observers. Co-operative climate network observers make a valuable contribution to the Canadian climate program. In addition to supplementing Canada's climate archive with observations of temperature and precipitation from standard meteorological instruments, the observations they collect may be used by local newspapers, radio or television stations.

A co-operative climate network observer is supplied with official instruments, stationery, and training, free-of-charge, from the MSC. In return, the observer agrees to take regular climate observations and to report this information daily.

The atmosphere is a shared resource. Climate studies around the globe depend on the free international exchange of weather data. Accordingly, Canadian climate data must meet international standards for data quality. Achieving and maintaining these data quality standards depends on the conscientious efforts and consistent accuracy of all weather and climate observers.

Note to Readers

Throughout the document the terms "should" and "must" are used. The term should is used to denote a recommended practice, an established or conventional procedure that is to be followed wherever possible. The term must is used to indicate that the instructions are mandatory.