The information is collected through the Internet and occasional meetings. A number of different models are used in the simulations, Arritt said. An additional step will be doing observations in the area we are simulating. Gutowski said ISU's research has focused on the central United States because it has a good database, and a project like this is important for economic impact and changes in agriculture. Since agriculture is important in the Midwest, it's also important to know how the weather will affect the area, he said.
Simulations looking back give more confidence than looking forward.
Eugene Takle, a professor in agronomy and atmospheric sciences, said they are using regional models in their tests because they have higher resolution than global models. Those who have contributed to the project include Doug Fils, systems support specialist for physics and astronomy and Zaitao Pan, resident associate for geologic and atmospheric sciences. Electric Power Research Institute is also a major sponsor of the research. Copyright 1997 by the Iowa State Daily Publications Board. All rights reserved.