DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that Dr. Justin Glisan has been hired as the new State Climatologist within the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. He started on May 29, 2018. He replaces Harry Hillaker, who retired earlier this year following a 37 year career with the Department. 

“The weather is always a lively topic of conversation and we are excited to have Dr. Glisan on board in this important role. The State Climatologist ensures we have comprehensive weather records for the state so we can put current weather events in the correct historical context,” Naig said.

As the State Climatologist, Dr. Glisan will compile and process Iowa climate data for current and future weather data research needs. This includes preparing the weekly weather summary for the Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report from April 1 through Nov. 30 and the monthly Iowa weather summary.

Dr. Glisan graduated from Iowa State University in 2012 and continued as a post-doctoral atmospheric scientist until he was hired as a research atmospheric scientist by Iowa State. He’s also participated in many research projects at Iowa State University and the University of Missouri, including in-depth research on extreme precipitation and temperature extremes and their causal mechanisms.

***A high resolution photo of Glisan is available here

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s mission is to provide leadership for all aspects of agriculture in Iowa, ensure consumer protection and promote the responsible use of our natural resources.

www.iowaagriculture.gov