News Release

Environment Canada Presents Awards of Merit to 39 Prairie Volunteer Climate Observers

ALBERTA/SASKATCHEWAN/MANITOBA, June 4, 2007- Environment Canada will present awards and certificates to 39 people on the Prairies during Environment Week, from June 3-9, 2007, in appreciation of their services over the years as volunteer climate observers.

This year, 13 volunteer climate observers from Alberta, 10 volunteers from Manitoba, and 16 volunteers from Saskatchewan are receiving certificates and awards for their commitment, ranging from five to 50 years of service.

Climate volunteers have been taking daily readings of Canada's ever-changing climate since 1840. Their job consists of recording the maximum, minimum and current temperatures, as well as the amount of precipitation of both rain and snow. Some also record the amount of sunshine, speed of the wind and the temperature of the soil. When combined with other data, the reports compiled by individual climate observers create a record of Canada's climate and are sometimes used in studies and statistical reports regarding regional climate. The information they gather also contributes to Environment Canada's ongoing study of the weather and climate fluctuations that affect both our economic activities and everyday lives. These volunteers make a valuable contribution toward a greater understanding of the climate and its effect on the environment.

Each year, certificates and awards are presented to individuals and families who have reached milestones of long-time continuous service as volunteer climate observers.

For more information, please contact:

Brian Howe
Atmospheric Monitoring Section
Environment Canada        
(204) 983-4384

Don Ryback
Atmospheric Monitoring Section
Environment Canada
(306) 975-6909

Ben Lemon
Atmospheric Monitoring Section
Environment Canada
(780) 495-6442