The Sun is the Primary Source of Energy for Earth's Climate System

Climate Literacy Principle 1

The sun warms the planet, drives the hydrologic cycle, and makes life on Earth possible. The amount of sunlight received on Earth's surface is affected by the reflectivity of the surface, the angle of the sun, the output of the sun, and the cyclic variations of…

Climate is regulated by complex interactions among components of the Earth system

Climate Literacy Principle 2

Oceanic, atmospheric, biologic, and geologic processes all drive the climate system and result in regional differences in climates on Earth. Many climatic processes such as the greenhouse effect and the carbon cycle are the result of the interplay between the "spheres" of the…

Life on Earth depends on, is shaped by, and affects climate

Climate Literacy Principle 3

Life affects the composition of the atmosphere and therefore the climate because different life forms take in and release gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and oxygen at different rates. Climatic conditions help to shape various ecosystems and habitats around the globe. A…

Climate varies over space and time through both natural and man-made processes

Climate Literacy Principle 4

These key ideas illustrate the differences between weather and climate and unravel some of the processes that cause natural climate variability, and abrupt climate change, and human-caused climate change. Understanding climate variability such as the El Niño/Southern Oscillation…

Understanding of the climate system is improved through observations, theoretical studies & modeling

Climate Literacy Principle 5

This aspect of climate literacy addresses the essential question of how we go about studying and understanding the climate system. Climate science follows the same methods and principles of all scientific research and is based on asking questions, making observations, testing…

Human activities are impacting the climate system

Climate Literacy Principle 6

The potential for human activities to increase the temperature of the Earth through greenhouse gas emissions has been described and calculated for over a century. Volumes of scientific research across multiple scientific disciplines agree that humans are warming the climate, and…

Climate change has consequences for the Earth system and human lives

Climate Literacy Principle 7

Most people are aware of the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, which is what climate scientists predicted for a warming world. The impacts of climate change on humans and environmental systems have become a focus for resource managers, medical professionals,…

Humans can take actions to reduce climate change and its impacts

The Guiding Principle for Informed Climate Decisions.

Climate change can be a tough topic to teach. But talking about the solutions can bring a hopeful message to the classroom and empower students. It's essential that students understand the types of actions we can take and the scale at which these changes…

McMurdo Speaker Series: Antarctica, Space & Lasers (Oh my!) Intro to the Upper Atmosphere

Join CIRES scientist, Yingfei Chen, from McMurdo Station in Antarctica! Learn about the layers of the atmosphere, why we study the atmosphere, and how we study the atmosphere through powerful graphics and meaningful questions from classrooms around the country. 

This webinar is part of a four-part…

McMurdo Speaker Series: Antarctica, Space & Lasers (Oh my!) Intro to Space Weather

Join McMurdo scientist, Arunima Prakash, from McMurdo Station in Antarctica! Learn what space weather is, how it's measured, and why we study it with the help of amazing photos of the aurora and space at night plus meaningful questions from classrooms around the country.

This webinar is part of a 4-…

McMurdo Speaker Series: Antarctica, Space & Lasers (Oh my!) Seasons in the Antarctic

Join McMurdo scientist, Ian Geraghty, from McMurdo Station in Antarctica for a lesson on Seasons in Antarctica, followed by a Q&A! Learn about what causes the seasons and why Antarctica's seasons are so unique, plus Polar Night and Day and how life adapts to these seasons. 

This webinar is part of…

McMurdo Speaker Series: Antarctica, Space & Lasers (Oh my!) A Day in the Life at McMurdo

Join McMurdo scientist, Jackson Jandreau, from McMurdo Station in Antarctica and learn what a day in the life at McMurdo looks like! Hear about the McMurdo LIDAR team and how scientists spend their day, including what you do for fun in Antarctica, along with lots of amazing photos, videos, and a Q&A session…

Videographer on Ice: Polar Science with Lianna Nixon

Videographer Lianna Nixon presented about her experiences on the MOSAiC Expedition and filming a planetarium show in the Arctic Circle.

Climate, Drought, and Climate Change in the Southwestern US

Discover the intricate web of climate, drought, and climate change in the Southwestern US in this engaging 25-minute talk and 20-minute LIVE Q&A. Our seasoned climatologist, Russ Schumacher, will explore Colorado's climate, the significance of mountain snowpack, and the path of water to rivers. Uncover key…

Atmospheric Rivers: What's up with them?

Join Daniela Pennycook from the Cooperative Institute of Research in Environmental Sciences, Dr. Mimi Hugues, Research Meteorologist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Andy Anderson, Forecaster at the Sierra Nevada Avalanche Center in this special webinar on Atmospheric Rivers, learn all…

EclipseEd: Illuminating Learning Paths for the April 8th Total Solar Eclipse

Science Show & Share ran a special webinar with NOAA's Science on Sphere! In honor of the April 8th, 2024 total solar eclipse event, the NOAA Science On a Sphere program has developed datasets showing cloud cover potential, eclipse paths, and a narrated movie describing the total eclipse phenomenon.

Arctic Amplification and the Inequities of Climate Change with Dr. Jen Kay

Thank you everyone who joined our live event with the feature scientist in the CEEE Not All Warming is Equal Data Puzzle lesson, Dr. Jen Kay. We are excited to share this edition of the Science Show & Share classroom video call where, Dr. Kay describes her research as it relates to using observational data and…

Fire Ecologist Dr. Camille Stevens-Rumann

CIRES Center for Education Engagement and Evaluation (CEEE) went live for a special edition of Science Show & Share featuring Dr. Camille Stevens-Rumann, a fire ecologist whose research focuses on how forests…

GeoMag Challenge: What is Space Weather?

CIRES scientist Dr. Alessandra Pacini explains what space weather is, how it affects us here on Earth.

GeoMag Challenge Kick Off

Individuals and classrooms join the GeoMag Data Challenge! In this recording, we'll teach you how to collect data on the intensity of Earth's magnetic field using only your phone and the CrowdMag app. Your contributions will help scientists understand changes in Earth's magnetic field that will lead to improvements…

Kickoff with Dr. Rick Saltus

Scientists need your help to keep maps of Earth's magnetic field up to date to improve navigation and protect satellites from harmful space weather. Use your smartphone to measure magnetic fields around you and send your data to scientists. To download the CrowdMag app:…

Seasons in the Antarctic

Join McMurdo scientist, Ian Geraghty, from McMurdo Antarctica for a 10-15 minute lesson on Seasons in Antarctica, followed by a Q&A. In this lesson, we will cover what causes the seasons and why is Antarctica's seasons so unique; Learn about Polar Night and Day and how life adapts to these seasons. 

Live from COP26 with Maxwell Boykoff and Gina Fiorile

Teachers, classrooms, and members of the public were invited to learn about COP26 from the Director of the Environmental Studies program at the University of Colorado at Boulder,  Maxwell Boykoff, and Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness…

Polar Expeditions: From Past to Present

Watch this special joint webinar with CIRES and …

Into the Polar Night: MOSAiC Planetarium Show

CU Boulder photographer and videographer Amy Richman spent months in the Arctic last year on leg 1 of MOSAiC. This planetarium show allows viewers to experience what Amy witnessed: finding the initial ice floe, setting up the network of instruments and science research camps on the ice, and the seasonal transition…

Parking Miss Piggy (360 deg video)

In this 360-degree video, scientists park a large weather balloon nicknamed "Miss Piggy" in a tent during the 2019-2020 MOSAiC Arctic research expedition. Click and drag for a full 360-degree view!

Helicopter on Ice (360 deg video)

Watch a helicopter land on sea ice near MOSAiC researchers in this immersive video captured by scientist Chris Cox. Click and drag for a full 360-degree view!

Tower Repairs (360 deg video)

Watch as scientists climb a meteorological tower on the ice to repair instruments that collect atmospheric data during the 2019-2020 MOSAiC research expedition. Click and drag for a full 360-degree view!

Arctic Soccer Game (360 deg video)

Watch one of the most extreme soccer games you'll ever see being played on sea ice in the Arctic during the 2019-2020 MOSAiC research expedition. Click and drag for a full 360-degree view!
 

Tower of Terror (360 deg video)

Watch MOSAiC researchers work near a meteorological tower on Arctic sea ice in this 360-degree video experience. Click and drag for a full 360-degree view!
 

Arctic Buoy Repairs (360 deg video)

How does one repair a buoy frozen in sea ice? Click and drag in this 360-degree video from the MOSAiC expedition to find out!

Remote Arctic Lab (360 deg video)

What's it like working in a remote lab on board a ship in the middle of the Arctic? Click and drag in this 360-degree video to find out.

Meteorología con Arelis M. Rivera-Giboyeaux

Si te llaman la atención los eventos del tiempo como las tormentas eléctricas, los huracanes y los tornados, esta presentación es para ti. Arelis M. Rivera-Giboyeaux, meteoróloga del Departamento de Energía compartirá su experiencia en el campo de las ciencias atmosfericas.

Experience and Capture the Arctic on Film with Lianna Nixon

Videographer Lianna Nixon presents about her experiences on the MOSAiC Expedition and filming a planetarium show in the Arctic Circle.

Environmental Economics with Matthew Burgess

Dr. Matthew Burgess talks about science policy and how math, economics, and climate science are related.

About Arctic Sea Ice with Walt Meier

Dr. Walt Meier presents on Sea Ice (What it is and why we study it)

Ice Dynamics with Twila Moon

In this Science@Home Twila Moon presents on Greenland and Ice Dynamics.

Radar & Remote Sensing of Glaciers with Ryan Cassotto

Dr. Ryan Cassotto presents on: Radars and Remote Sensing of Glaciers. 

Paleoclimatólogos: Detectives del Clima with Lina Pérez Angel

La candidata a doctorado Lina Pérez Angel presentará sobre paleoclimatología.

Fossils: Earth's History & Dinosaur Extinction with Julio Sepúlveda

Dr. Julio Sepúlveda presents: What do fossil molecules tell us about Earth’s history and the extinction of dinosaurs?

Impactos de la Precipitación Extrema con Claudia Corona

La candidata a doctorado Claudia Corona presentará sobre impactos de precipitación extrema bajo la superficie.

Huracanes con Rosimar Rios-Berrios

La Dra. Ríos-Berrios presentará su investigación sobre huracanes.

Dr. Rios-Berrios also gave this presentation in English, here.

Hurricanes with Rosimar Rios-Berrios

In this webinar, Dr. Rosimar Rios-Berrios presented on her research in hurricanes, cyclones, and forecasting.

Seismology with Mel Zhang

Learn about seismology with Mel Zhang, in this 30-minute webinar on seismology - what it is and how Mel got into it. 

Wildfires and Insects Kill Trees with Mike Koontz

Dr. Koontz presented on: Understanding Where Wildfires and Insects Kill Trees Using Drones and Satellites.

Wildfires & Crop Burning Smoke with Shuka Schwarz

Joshua (Shuka) Schwarz is a research scientist in NOAA's Chemical Science Laboratory. In this presentation he talks about wildfire and crop burning smoke and what it's like to be a scientist.

Flash Droughts with Andy Hoell

Dr. Hoell presents on: Flash Drought

(Flash Droughts are defined as an event with greater than or equal to two categories degradation in a four-week period based on the U.S. Drought Monitor.)

Andy Hoell works in NOAA's Physical Sciences Laboratory. He researches the predictability of weather and…

Polarbears: Changing Climate Ecosystems with Alysa McCall, Dr. Steve Amstrup and Trude Hohle

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Alysa McCall and Dr. Steve Amstrup talk all things polar bear! You'll learn how climate…

Arctic Peoples: A Changing Climate, Changing Ways of Life with Kaare Sikuaq Erickson

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Kaare Sikuaq Erickson discusses the Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation (UIC) and its…

Arctic Ocean Acidification: Ecosystems and Economies with Dr. Jessica Cross

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this lesson, Dr. Jessica Cross discusses ocean acidification and the dangers it poses to areas like…

Pollution in the Arctic with Dr. Katrin Vorkamp

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Katrin Vorkamp describes the Arctic as a recipient of global pollution. You'll…

Does a Warming Climate Mean a More Accessible Arctic? With Dr. Scott Stephenson

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Scott Stephenson focuses on the link between climate change and human…

Arctic Climate System and Pan-Arctic Connections with Dr. James Overland

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. James Overland discusses how sea ice loss can cause major changes in the Arctic…

A Changing Climate, A Changing Arctic with Dr. John Walsh

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. John Walsh discusses how climate change is apparent throughout the Arctic (air…

What is Process Modeling? with Dr. Amy Solomon

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Amy Solomon defines process modeling as an iterative process between…

Climate Modeling to Understand a Changing Arctic with Dr. Marika Holland

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Marika Holland will teach you about climate models. She also asks the question…

Arctic Regional Modeling with Dr. Wieslaw Maslowski

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Wieslaw Maslowski explains the process of formulating regional models of the…

Arctic Short-Term Forecasting with Dr. Amy Solomon

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Amy Solomon will teach you about her role in MOSAiC in coordinating…

Why Study the Arctic? Goals of the MOSAiC Modeling Team with Dr. Gunilla Svensson

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Gunilla Svensson explains how important Earth system models are to…

Why Study the Arctic Ecosystem? with Dr. Brice Loose

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Brice Loose covers the topics of microbial carbon cycling and ocean circulation…

All About Atmospheric Aerosols with Dr. Jessie Creamean

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Jessie Creamean discusses how aerosols affect clouds and precipitation in the…

What Starts Up, Must Go Down: Productivity in the Arctic Ocean with Dr. Clara Hoppe

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Clara Hoppe sheds light on the small but mighty phytoplankton! You'll learn…

Arctic Sea Ice Ecology with Dr. Hauke Flores

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Hauke Flores describes sea ice as an important driver in Arctic food webs. You'…

Adaptations to Life in Sea Ice with Dr. Jeff Bowman

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Jeff Bowman touches on differences between the adaptive strategies of warm vs.…

Life in Sea Ice with Dr. Jeff Bowman

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Jeff Bowman will teach you about metabolic challenges and opportunities present…

Life Beneath the Ice with Dr. Carin Ashjian

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Carin Ashjihan will introduce you to Arctic marine life by highlighting…

Why Study Sea Ice? with Dr. Marcel Nicolaus

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Marcel Nicolaus describes his role as MOSAiC's sea ice team leader and why…

Sea Ice Thermodynamics with Dr. Donald Perovich

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Donald Perovich discusses sea ice mass balance. You'll learn about the data…

Sea Ice Kinetics with Dr. Jennifer Hutchings

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Jennifer Hutchings defines sea ice kinetics. Throughout the MOSAiC expedition,…

Sea Ice Dynamics with Dr. Jennifer Hutchings (M4: L5)

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Jennifer Hutchings describes Arctic sea ice dynamics and how ridges and leads…

Sunlight & Arctic Sea Ice with Dr. Bonnie Light

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Bonnie Light adds new meaning to her name! You'll learn about sunlight's vital…

How Sea Ice is Made with Dr. Melinda Webster

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Melinda Webster explains sea ice formation. You'll learn about its role in…

The Story of Sea Ice with Dr. Julienne Stroeve

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Julienne Stroeve explains her research with MOSAiC in studying Arctic sea ice…

Finding the Floe

AWI's Thomas Krumpen discusses how scientists use satellite information to identify ice floes in the Arctic Ocean.

Baking at Sea

Hear from the Baker on Leg 1 of the MOSAiC Expedition. Multidisciplinary Drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate is an international expedition to study the Arctic climate system, from ocean to ice to atmosphere. 500+ scientists...19 nations...12 months...

Using Helicopters for Science

Alberto Enrquez, helicopter mechanic and technical crew member on Legs 1 and 4 of the #MOSAiCExpedition, talks about what it takes to use helicopters for research in the Arctic.

Goals of the MOSAiC Team with Dr. Benjamin Rabe

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Benjamin Rabe talk about the MOSAiC expedition as a whole and what kinds of…

Ocean Chemistry and Productivity with Dr. Allison Fong, Part 2 of 2

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Allison Fong discusses Arctic ice melt and what this means for the surrounding…

Ocean Chemistry and Productivity with Dr. Allison Fong, Part 1 of 2

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Allison Fong introduces you to nutrient biogeochemistry in the Arctic Ocean.…

Arctic Air & Ocean with Tim Stanton (M3: L4)

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Tim Stanton talks about the relationship between the ocean and atmosphere in the…

How the Arctic Ocean Mixes with Tim Stanton

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Tim Stanton discusses the role of ocean stratification in controlling the way heat…

How the Arctic Ocean Flows with Dr. Bill Shaw

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Bill Shaw will teach you about ocean circulation driven by wind patterns and…

Why Study the Atmosphere? with Dr. Matthew Shupe

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Matthew Shupe breaks down the work of MOSAiC's atmosphere team. Following team…

Arctic Feedbacks with Drs. Jennifer Kay and Ariel Morrison

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Drs. Jennifer Kay and Ariel Morrison introduce positive and negative albedo…

Arctic Clouds with Dr. Matthew Shupe

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Matthew Shupe explains the significance of clouds in the Arctic system and how…

Earth's Atmosphere with Dr. Chris Cox

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Chris Cox will teach you about Earth's atmosphere. You'll learn about its…

Earth's Energy Budget with Dr. John Cassano

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. John Cassano describes the role of the Arctic in the Earth's energy budget and…

Exploring the New & Old Arctic with Jonathan Griffith

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Jonathan Griffith tells the story of Fridtjof Nansen's trailblazing journey through…

MOSAiC Expedition Overview with Dr. Matthew Shupe

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Matthew Shupe broadly defines MOSAiC. From the very first expedition of…

Arctic Geopolitics with Dr. Sandy Starkweather

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Sandy Starkweather discusses geopolitics concerning the "Arctic Eight" nations…

What/Where is the Arctic? with Dr. Mark Serreze

This video is part of a collection - “Frozen in the Ice: Exploring the Arctic." Check out the MOSAiC page for more details.

In this specific lesson, Dr. Mark Serreze describes the Arctic as a highly varied environment undergoing some rapid…

The Formation of New Guinea & History of Our Climate with Peter Martin

Dr. Peter Martin presented on his research in and of New Guinea. In particular, when did it form and how it impacted historical climate change. 

This webinar is part of the CIRES/NOAA Science-At-Home series. 

Geomagnetism with CrowdMag

Dr. Rick Saltus, and Dr. Neesha Schnepf presented on their recent research in geomagnetism and talk about their crowd-sourcing app: CrowdMag

This webinar is part of the CIRES/NOAA Science-At-Home series. 

Burial of Alaskan Forests: Glacier Detachments with Mylène Jacquemart

In this webinar, Mylène Jacquemart talked about her research working to ID triggers of sudden glacier detachments: destructive glacial process that buried kilometers of Alaskan forest.

Ocean-Atmosphere Interactions with Elizabeth Thompson

In this webinar, Dr. Elizabeth Thompson discussed how learning about weather can also teach us a lot about the ocean - it's the same but backwards. The oceans impact weather across the entire world, but these invisible interactions are some of the most difficult to measure or predict. This webinar is part of…

Microbial life in Antarctic soils (and Mars): with Noah Fierer

In this webinar, Dr. Noah Fierer presented on his recent work looking at the microorganisms living in soils of Antarctica, one of the driest and coldest places on Earth. He discussed how and why he went to Antarctica to study these microorganisms and what they can tell us about life on our planet and the…

The Greenland Ice Sheet with Lincoln Pitcher

In this webinar, Dr. Lincoln Pitcher presented on recent research about meltwater production, transport and export from the Greenland Ice Sheet. He talked about what glacier hydrology field research in Greenland is like, and why studying Greenland Ice Sheet hydrologic processes is important.

This…

Stratospheric Polar Vortex & Weather with Amy Butler

In this webinar, Dr. Amy Butler talked about the Polar Vortex. She focused on why she became an atmospheric scientist, presented a brief overview of the stratosphere and the ozone layer, and discussed how we might use information about the stratospheric polar vortex to make extended-range weather…

Precipitation with Janice Bytheway

In this webinar, Dr. Janice Bytheway talked about precipitation - how it forms, and a little bit on how we observe and predict it.

This webinar is part of the CIRES/NOAA Science-At-Home series. 

Antarctica with Ted Scambos

In this webinar, check back for the recording, Dr. Ted Scambos presented a 'science travelogue' for the continent of Antarctica. His nineteen expeditions to Antarctica, in every region of the continent and the sea ice that surrounds it, has made him an expert in the field. 

He has…

Resilience in the Community Sector, Interview with Waverly Klaw

Waverly Klaw, Hazards and Land Use Planner with the State of Colorado Department of Local Affairs, describes what resilience looks like for the community sector in Colorado.

Wildfires in Colorado with Megan Cattau

Megan Cattau, Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Earth Lab at University of Colorado Boulder, discusses wildfire in Colorado for the HEART Force project.

Resilience in the Infrastructure Sector, Interview with Lizzie Kemp

Lizzie Kemp, Resilience Program Coordinator at the Colorado Department of Transportation, describes what resilience looks like for the infrastructure sector in Colorado.

Resilience in Watershed and Natural Resources Sector, Interview with Kevin Houck

Kevin Houck, Chief of Watershed and Flood Protection at the Colorado Water Conservation Board, describes what resilience looks like for watersheds and natural resources in Colorado.

Drought in Colorado with Doug Kluck

Doug Kluck, the Regional Climate Services Director at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, discusses drought in Colorado for the HEART Force Project.

Flooding in Colorado with Jeff Lukas

Jeff Lukas, a scientist at the Western Water Assessment, discusses flooding in Colorado for the HEART Force project.

Resilience in the Economic Sector, Interview with Danielle Lendriet

Danielle Lendriet, Regional Coordinator and Analyst at the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, describes what resilience looks like in the economic sector in Colorado

Colorado Resiliency Framework Overview - Kate Busse and Rob Pressly

Kate Busse (Local Resiliency Program Manager) and Rob Pressly (Resiliency Program Manager) with the Colorado Resiliency Office at the Colorado Department of Local Affairs describe the Colorado Resiliency Framework.

Resiience in the Housing Sector, Interview with Allison George

Alison George, Housing Director for the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, describes what resilience looks like in the housing sector in Colorado.

Resilience in the Health Sector, Interview with Aimee Voth Siebert

Aimee Voth Siebert, Behavior Health and Inclusion Worklead at the Colorado Department of Public Health, describes what resilience looks like in the health and social sector in Colorado.

What Does the Future Hold?

In the final video lecture of the series, Eric Gordon and Anne Gold from CIRES wrap up the series by giving an overview of the previous lectures and discussing possibilities of future challenges facing water in the west.

A Collision of Impacts: The Water Energy Nexus

In this lecture, Kristen Averyt from the University of Colorado Boulder gives a lecture on the link between water and energy, also known as the Water-Energy Nexus. Learn about how water can generate power. This video is part of the Water in the Western US project.

Doing More With Less: Water Conservation and New Supplies in Las Vegas

In this part of the Water in the Western US lecture series, Eric Gordon from the University of Colorado Boulder discusses the rapid growth of Las Vegas and the history of its water use. This western water story can help us learn about how desert towns can improve their water sustainability.

Science, Management, and Reality: The Story of the California Bay Delta

Peter Goodwin and Phil Isenberg of the Delta Stewardship Council gave this lecture on the story of the California Bay Delta. They discuss complex management issues with California's water supply and more. This video is part of the Water in the Western US project.

Understanding Water Quality Impacts: Boulder Creek Case Study

In this video, Sheila Murphy from the US Geological Survey gives a lecture on the effects that wildfire has on water quality and quantity. This lecture is part of the Water in the Western US project.

A Growing Controversy: Hydraulic Fracturing and Water Supplies

This lecture by Dr. Mark Williams from the University of Colorado Boulder gives an overview on the controversial topic of hydraulic fracturing (also known as "fracking"). What is it and how does it affect our water supply? This video is part of the Water in the Western US project.

Physical Attributes of the Colorado River and Experimental Flows in the Grand Canyon

This lecture by Dr. Jack Schmidt from Utah State University gives an overview on the physical attributes of the Colorado River and how that affects river restoration. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

The Colorado River Basin Water Supply and Demand Study

In this lecture, Dr. Ken Novak from the US Bureau of Reclamation examines a case study on the water supply and demand of the Colorado River Basin. Learn about how increasing demand for water affects reservoirs and other infrastructure. This is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Climate and the Colorado River Basin Past, Present, and Future

This video features Jeff Lukas from CIRES' Western Water Assessment who discusses the overall climate patterns of the Colorado River Basin, and how we can use this information to study the past, present, and future climate of the western United States. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture…

History of Development of the Colorado River Basin

In this video, Dr. Paul Lander from the University of Colorado Boulder gives a lecture on the history of two important dams: Hoover and Glen Canyon. This is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Geographic and Physical Overview of the Colorado River Basin

CIRES' Anne Gold delivers a lecture on the physical geographic overview of the Colorado River Basin and the legal and political aspects of water management in the west. This is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Water Demand for Urban Areas

In this lecture, Dr. Joanna Endter-Wada from Utah State University discusses water demand for urban areas. Learn about the nature of urban water demand, urban water management, and more. This is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Water Demand for Agriculture

Dr. Reagan Waskom, director of the Colorado Water Institute at Colorado State University, provides an overview on agricultural water use in the west. Learn about types of agriculture, how water is used in agriculture, and why so much water is needed for agriculture in the west. This video is part of the Water in…

Impacts of Climate Change in the Interior West

This video features Eric Gordon, who delivers a lecture on the effects that climate change will have on water in the Western United States. This is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

River and Flash Flooding

Research scientist Dr. Kelly Mahoney explores rivers and flash flooding in the west. This video covers different kinds of floods, what causes flash flooding, why flash flooding is more of a risk in the Western US, and what happened in the 2013 Front Range floods. This video is part of the Water in the Western US…

Watershed Impacts

In this lecture, Eric Gordon covers how the state of watersheds in the west can impact life in the surrounding areas. This includes an overview of the effects of wildfires, bark beetle infestations, and desert dust deposition on snow on the watershed. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series…

Groundwater Resources

In this video, Dr. Ben Livneh from CIRES at the University of Colorado Boulder gives an overview of all things groundwater in the Western United States. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Water Quality, Aquatic Habitat, and Drinking Water

This lecture by Anne Gold discusses water quality challenges in the Western United States and how that affects aquatic habitats and drinking water. This video covers streamflow, salinity, pollution, sediment load, and more. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Climate in the Western US and Water Resources

Jeff Lukas with Western Water Assessment discusses how the climate of the Western United States affects the availability of water resources. Learn more about the natural processes that drive our water cycle in the Western United States. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Environmental Flows and the Endangered Species Act

This lecture by Dr. Mark Squillace of the University of Colorado Law School covers water, public rights, and the Endangered Species Act. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Interstate Water Conflicts and Agreements

Interstate Streams Division Administrator for the Wyoming State Engineer's Office, Sue Lowry, gives a lecture on important things to know about how interstate water conflicts can be resolved in the United States. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Prior Appropriation

In this video, Assistant Attorney General Kate Ryan from the Colorado Supreme Court gives an overview of water rights across the Western US and the Prior Appropriation Doctrine. Learn why this doctrine is important for learning about water in the west. This video is part of the Water in the Western US project.

Water Storage and Delivery Infrastructure

In this video, Dr. Anne Gold from CU Boulder explains the importance of infrastructure for the storage and delivery of water in the dry Western United States. Learn all about the history of this infrastructure and how it has helped societies in the Western United States. This video is part of the Water in the…

Native American Tribes and Water

In this video, Julie Nania from the High Country Conservation Advocates discusses tribal water uses in the Western United States. Learn more about the historical cultural relationship between Native American tribes and natural water. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

History and Development of Water in the West

Dr. Paul Lander from the University of Colorado Boulder gives a lecture on the history of water resources in the Western United States, from the pre-colonial time period onward. This video is part of the Water in the Western US lecture series.

Review of the Water Cycle (with a focus on the Western US)

In this video Anne Gold and Eric Gordon give a brief review on the different processes involved in the water cycle, specifically in the Western United States.

Geography of the West

Eric Gordon and Anne Gold give an overview on the geographic features that define the Western United States, both physical and political.

Why Study Water in the West?

This video serves as an introduction to the Water in the Western US lecture series. The instructors Anne Gold and Eric Gordon explain the importance of learning about water in the Western United States.

Unique Polar Processes

This peer-reviewed educational video describes sea ice and land ice processes that are unique to polar regions. It is aimed at an undergraduate non-science major level. The video was produced by a team of CIRES scientists in collaboration with CIRES Education and Outreach. Video production was funded by Professor…

Arctic Feedbacks

This peer-reviewed educational video introduces feedbacks that are important in the Arctic climate system. It is aimed at an undergraduate non-science major level. The video was produced by a team of CIRES scientists in collaboration with CIRES Education and Outreach. Video production was funded by Professor…

Our Shared Climate Future

This peer-reviewed educational video explains human-caused climate change including the greenhouse effect. It is aimed at an undergraduate non-science major level. The video was produced by a team of CIRES scientists in collaboration with CIRES Education and Outreach. Video production was funded by Professor…