Climate Change and the Minnesota State Climatology Office
Researchers investigating climate change in Minnesota can utilize data sets maintained by the Minnesota State Climatology Office - DNR Waters. While the State Climatology Office is not actively involved in scholarly work investigating the issue of climate change, our Office is often called upon to offer scientific opinions on the topic. The subject matter is of professional interest to us, but we make no claim of expertise in this highly complicated and politicized field of study. Our thoughts on the issue are well represented by a policy statement prepared by the American Association of State Climatologists (AASC). Staff of the State Climatology Office hold membership within the AASC, and were asked to provide review and endorsement of this statement.
American Association of State Climatologists Policy Statement on Climate Variability and Change
(The views found on the linked policy statement do not represent a formal policy
position held by the State of Minnesota or the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.)
Information concerning climate change and potential impacts on Minnesota is available on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Climate Change Web page, and the Minnesota Climate Change Advisory Group Web site.
For an international perspective, see the latest Assessment Report prepared by the United Nations - Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
A report on 'Observing the Climate' (March 2008) has been prepared by the Minnesota State Climatology Office. That report examines both recent and long-term climate trends in Minnesota. A preface to the results section briefly describes non-climatic influences on the climate observing system. (Future enhancements/revisions/updates to this document are likely.)