Weather Modification International (WMI) and the University of North Dakota (UND) have begun a collaborative partnership that includes the sale of UND’s Cessna Citation II weather research aircraft to WMI, as well as expanded cooperation between the organizations to develop atmospheric research programs and educational opportunities for students.

“WMI will begin deploying this Citation II aircraft as an additional platform integrated into the most extensive atmospheric science fleet in the world,” says Neil Brackin, president of Weather Modification International. “Building on our position as the global leader in operational cloud seeding and atmospheric sciences, our strong relationship with the University of North Dakota positively impacts the industry as well as the science and academic communities.”

This cooperation has already resulted in a successful grant award from the North Dakota Centers of Excellence Commission in which WMI and UND will jointly study cloud nucleation temperatures that optimize associated cloud seeding delivery systems in 2017.

“UND is excited to build on our long-term relationship with WMI to offer expanded capabilities to the industry and science communities and for our students to have increased exposure to operational and research opportunities in the field of Atmospheric Sciences,” says Mike Poellot, chair of UND Atmospheric Sciences Department, part of the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences.

WMI is involved in atmospheric chemistry, pollution and weather research, weather forecasting and modeling, and weather modification programs. The company is best known for its cloud modification projects worldwide to suppress hail and enhance precipitation. WMI also provides ground-based weather radar systems. WMI has conducted research and implemented weather programs in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, totaling more than 35 countries. WMI is a sister company to Fargo Jet Center and is based at its headquarters in Fargo, North Dakota.