Mike Buresh
Mike Buresh, chief meteorologist at CBS47/FOX30 in Jacksonville, Florida, discusses his role as “station scientist.”
Tell us how you go “beyond the weather” at your station.
How did you first hear about the AMS Station Scientist initiative, and why did you decide to fill the role of “Station Scientist?”
I first heard about the initiative through information disseminated by the AMS [American Meteorological Society] for members and those with the Seal of Approval. It wasn’t so much a “decision to fill the role of Station Scientist” as much as a natural fit in continuing a role I always felt strongly about since my move from college into professional life. That role is delivering a consistent and interesting weather forecast that includes insight into the field of meteorology and general sciences that sometimes goes well beyond the daily forecast. Most importantly, there’s nothing like getting the right information right from the “horse’s mouth!”
As a Station Scientist, what challenges have you encountered in presenting scientific topics to your viewers?
The greatest challenge are probably having enough time to fully present the topic and convincing the newsroom that our viewers are interested in science stories.
Which Earth Gauge materials have you used and how have you found them helpful?
I’ve used online courses to further my continuing education. I use the weekly newsletters regularly to keep me informed and to inform my viewers.
How do you incorporate Earth Gauge information into your weather reports? Are you using the information in other ways?
I show at least one Earth Gauge tip on air each week — usually based on the newsletter. I also post most — if not all — of the newsletter in my Friday blog column. I will sometimes use the newsletter to do a question and answer in my twice-weekly segments “Weather Why’s.” I occasionally use Climate Facts in the same manner — my blog and/or “Weather Why’s” during newscasts.
Why do you think that providing environmental information to your viewers is important? What has been your viewers’ response to increased scientific/environmental content?
Environmental information is important for our viewers to keep them informed about our ever changing planet and climate. I also believe some U.S. historical perspective is important — “If you don’t learn from history, you’re condemned to repeat it” — see the 1970s! The viewer response has been positive and curious. Even the news anchors often say something to the effect of, “Really? That’s interesting.”
What do you like about the Earth Gauge program? Do you have any success stories you would like to share?
I like the Earth Gauge program because the information is broad, well researched and includes references. The beauty of Earth Gauge is lots of valuable information without taxing my own time. As for successes … my Friday blog posts — which include the Earth Gauge newsletters — consistently have the highest readership.
What is one environmental topic affecting your community that you feel strongly about, and have you covered it on-air or in other ways?
I feel strongly that water conservation and water quality is one of the most critical environmental topics for Jacksonville and surrounding areas. I have reported on this topic on-air, as have some of our reporters.
Where do you see Earth Gauge and the Station Scientist initiative going in the future?
I see Earth Gauge and the Station Scientist initiative only getting stronger in the coming years as environmental awareness grows and our hardships related to weather and climate continue to increase. Educating the young about these topics will be paramount in instilling long term, substantive change. I envision 30-minute programs for television and the web that will deliver the message, as well as shorter “infomercial”-style messages for iPods, Web programming and teacher curriculums. The message must be clear, factual, relevant and to the point.
Read Mike’s bio and the Buresh Blog to learn more about his work.