Weather Modification Grant Program

The Program provides state grants to water providers,  local governments and/or their fiscal agents that assist in funding ground-based wintertime operational cloud seeding programs. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Who can apply?

The Program is only available to existing permitted cloud seeding programs managed by water user groups and city and county governments. Ski areas and other interests are not currently eligible for cloud seeding grants even if they do participate in an existing permitted cloud seeding program. Currently all permitted projects in Colorado have local water users sponsoring all or part of the cloud seeding except for the Vail/Beaver Creek ski area cloud seeding program.

How can the money be used?

Grant money is to be used to help the local water users fund well-designed cloud seeding programs and help modernize programs to take advantage of new technologies. Permits are issued for five months of winter (typically November 1 through March 31).

Examples of how the money can be used:

1. To enable full utilization of all winter months in a weather modification permit.
2. To purchase or lease equipment like weather stations and remote-operated ice nuclei generators that enhance reporting and effectiveness of cloud seeding programs.
3. To evaluate the effectiveness of cloud seeding in a particular area.

How can I apply?

Grants are currently only available for permitted cloud seeding programs. To leverage the Weather Modification Grants Program, you will need to develop a plan and funding at a local level, and then apply for a weather modification permit. Annual requests come from the local level project sponsors to the CWCB.

For more information about cloud seeding permits or the Weather Modification Grants Program, contact Andrew Rickert at 303-866-3441 x3249.

What is the approval process after I have submitted an application?

The CWCB staff works with contractors and project sponsors and assesses the available funding through the CWCB and Colorado River agreements to determine the programs in operation and their needs for the year and then develops the recommendations. The priorities and grant funding levels are meant to be equitable and are established by the CWCB staff with assistance from CWCB Board members.