RAF AND UBCP FACILITATE WEATHER STATIONS ON BLM AIRSTRIPS
RAF Utah Liaison Wendy Lessig has played a key role in helping the Utah DOT Aeronautics Division obtain BLM authorization to place portable weather stations at eleven backcountry airstrips across Utah on BLM-managed lands. “Actual weather conditions at remote backcountry airstrips are often quite different from local airport weather reports, which might be many miles away,” Lessig pointed out.
Locations were selected to fill in the gaps with no current weather monitoring. Backcountry airstrips are a good alternative location, as they are accessible, and the units are designed specifically to be transported by small aircraft. “The additional data will be useful to all kinds of other backcountry users so they can make informed decisions as they travel in Utah’s most remote areas,” Lessig added.
Utah Division of Aeronautics has partnered with the Utah Back Country Pilots (UBCP), and with RAF assistance, this project will help to create a more complete weather picture across Utah. Installation of the portable weather stations is covered under UDOT’s Airport Capital Improvement Program, which includes funds each year to support Utah backcountry airstrips. Volunteer UBCP and RAF pilots have agreed to monitor the on-site physical condition of the weather stations, and periodically perform simple maintenance, and Lessig has agreed to help facilitate between the Utah Aeronautics and the BLM.
The weather stations will become functional over the next year or so. For more information on Utah airstrips, see UBCP’s website, or the Airfield Guide.
Submitted November 1, 2025