George D. Harlow Field: Automated Weather Observing System
The Challenges
- Oceanside airport with variable weather conditions and frequent fog
- Lack of reliable weather information
- Lack of airport access during IFR conditions
Gale’s Solution
- Met with Airport Commission to document need for All Weather Observing System (AWOS)
- Prepared FAA and State funding applications
- Obtained clearance from local Conservation Commission
- Specified AWOS III unit to include wind speed, wind gust, wind direction, variable wind direction, temperature, dew point, altimeter, pressure, density altitude, visibility, variable visibility, and cloud height
- Assisted client with bid preparation, ad, evaluation, and bid recommendation
- Observed installation of AWOS system (Resident Engineering)
- Provided grant and construction phase services
- Coordinated with FAA and National Weather Service for commissioning, and FCC for licensing
- Prepared grant closeout documentation to include project photographs, closeout forms, and operational manuals