Meteorologist
Utah Division of Water Resources
Bio:
Jonathan Jennings is a meteorologist for the Utah Department of Natural Resources working within the Division of Water Resources. As a WMA certified operator, Jonathan brings 13 years of experience to Utah from Texas where he ran weather modification operations in West Texas across the Concho Valley, Rolling Plains, and the Trans-Pecos regions. He was also highly involved with government relations, flare development and manufacturing, and pilot management. Jonathan is also owner and operator of Advanced Weather Modification Solutions where he provides weather modification operations, research, and consulting services. He graduated from Penn West University (formerly California University of PA) in 2008.
Title: A Comprehensive Look at Cloud Seeding in Utah
Abstract: Cloud seeding in Utah dates to the 1950’s and continues today across many of the mountain ranges of Utah. Interest in the field established the Cloud Seeding Act of 1973 which allows the state to permit and license operators within the state of Utah. The state has provided a cost share to many of the water districts across the region, but with an increase in funding during the 2023 legislative session, the state, alongside private contractor North American Weather Consultants, an expansion of the existing programs in ongoing while feasibility work by Utah State University could result in new target areas, particularly in the Great Salt Lake basin. This is all in response to the ever-changing climate which has resulted in stresses on our water security across the mountain west. Cloud seeding is one tool on the tool belt to help resolve these issues.