ABSTRACT
Preoccupation with weather and climate in Colombia originated with the pre-Columbian tribes who populated the country’s present territory. Colombian Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Land Utilization (HIMAT)’s involvement in the Colombian agriculture and livestock sector gave a strong boost to agrometeorological activity. HIMAT has initiated a five-year study of pest control for cotton crops in the state of Tolima, in collaboration with Colombian Institute for Agriculture and Livestock. This chapter discusses two aspects of activities at HIMAT, operations and research. Original research is conducted at HIMAT, which also serves as a mediating agency for various other projects of international technical cooperation. Agrometeorological operations at HIMAT consist of gathering data, analyzing them statistically, publishing various specific bulletins, and developing national agrometeorological studies. Three classes of bulletins are prepared: ten-day bulletins; monthly bulletins of weather conditions and their effects on agriculture; and monthly agrometeorological bulletins for the Bogota Savannah.
