A review of current evidence on climate forecasts and their economic effects in agriculture

This statement exemplifies exciting and important collaborative opportunities emerging at the field of climate forecasting. Much of what is known about El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and its impact on climate is attributable to the multinational Tropical Oceans and Global Atmosphere (TOGA) program. This decade-long program (1984-94), which brought oceanographers and atmospheric scientists together, can be touted as a model for interdisciplinary research. Bringing climate and social scientists together with decision makers provides the next opportunity. An overview of the important concepts and opportunities in the emerging field of improved climate forecasts (ICF) is provided. The primary obstacle to interdisciplinary cooperation is a general understanding of each field's concepts, terminology, and theory. This paper should help facilitate dialog between physical and social scientists and decision makers. The opportunities for cooperation and potential benefits to society are tremendous.