Dear Governor Hochul,

I am writing to you today as a concerned resident of New York to formally request the cessation of cloud seeding activities across our state. It has come to our attention that cloud seeding, which involves the deliberate introduction of substances like silver iodide or sodium chloride into the atmosphere to modify weather patterns, is being utilized to alter precipitation in New York. We believe this practice has significant potential for adverse environmental, health, and ethical consequences, and it warrants immediate attention and action at both the state and federal levels.

The potential risks associated with cloud seeding are vast and multifaceted. Scientific studies have raised concerns about the following:

Environmental Impact: The substances used in cloud seeding, such as silver iodide, can accumulate in the environment, potentially harming ecosystems and water supplies. There is growing evidence that these chemicals could have long-term detrimental effects on soil and aquatic life, threatening biodiversity and water quality in our state.

Health Concerns: The introduction of chemicals into the atmosphere and water system may have unknown or harmful impacts on human health. While some studies suggest that silver iodide is relatively harmless in small amounts, the long-term effects of its widespread use remain uncertain and could pose risks to vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues.

Ethical Considerations: Cloud seeding alters natural weather patterns and may disproportionately affect certain areas, benefiting some regions at the expense of others. The manipulation of weather raises fundamental ethical questions about the right of the government or any private entity to modify natural systems without fully understanding the potential consequences or securing consent from affected communities.

Effectiveness and Necessity: The effectiveness of cloud seeding as a means to increase precipitation remains highly debated. In some cases, the results are inconclusive, and the amount of water generated may not justify the environmental and financial costs. Given the uncertainties surrounding its efficacy, it is essential that we prioritize more sustainable and reliable methods for water resource management and climate resilience.
Given the growing body of scientific evidence and public concern, we urge both state and federal policymakers to act swiftly and decisively by:

Halting all cloud seeding operations in New York until further, independent research can confirm its safety, effectiveness, and ethical justification.
Implementing comprehensive studies to fully assess the environmental, health, and societal risks associated with cloud seeding.
Promoting alternative methods of water management and climate intervention that prioritize sustainability, scientific integrity, and community input.

We, the undersigned, believe it is critical to protect the health, safety, and natural resources of New York’s residents and ecosystems. By ending cloud seeding operations in our state and advocating for responsible environmental stewardship, we can help ensure that New York leads the way in adopting sustainable and scientifically sound policies.

Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue. We trust that you will consider the concerns of your constituents and work toward a solution that prioritizes the well-being of our environment, public health, and future generations.

Respectfully signed,  
Nicole, on behalf of the undersigned residents of New York