NOAA Administrator Commits to Working with Feenstra, Stakeholders to Mitigate Effects of Radar Obstructions

Press Release

Spinrad says NOAA "more than happy" to collaborate
WASHINGTON -- Today during a Science, Space, and Technology Environment Subcommittee hearing, Rep. Randy Feenstra (IA-04) questioned National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Richard Spinrad on methods to limit radar obstruction. In July, Feenstra raised concerns about the negative impact radar interference could have on the agriculture industry.

"I've been working on legislation to establish research and testing program to mitigate the impact of radar obstructions on detection and prediction capabilities," Rep. Feenstra said during today's hearing. "These obstructions were addressed in a Fall 2019 Joint Study on the impact of wind farms on weather radar. As you know, radar forecasting and detection can be affected by nearby buildings, terrain, and wind turbines. That said, it is crucial that we do not restrict the growth of clean wind energy by putting excessive red tape on wind farm construction."

Feenstra questioned Administrator Spinrad on research NOAA is conducting to reduce obstruction issues. Spinrad committed to working with Congress and relevant stakeholders, including representatives from the wind industry, to work on policies that would help mitigate the effects of radar obstructions.

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