What is the importance of environmental site assessments for RAWS placement?

The importance of environmental site assessments for RAWS (Remote Automated Weather Stations) placement primarily revolves around determining potential environmental hazards. Conducting these assessments helps evaluate the site for any existing environmental risks that could affect the safety, reliability, and accuracy of the data collected by the RAWS. For instance, if the site has contamination issues or is prone to flooding, these factors could compromise the success of installation and operation.

Additionally, while ensuring sensors receive accurate readings without interference is crucial, that is typically a secondary consideration stemming from understanding the environmental context rather than the primary focus of the assessment itself. Assessments ensure the installation site is safe and suitable, minimizing risks that could arise from environmental factors that impact the functionality and effectiveness of the RAWS.