1. What do we want to accomplish?
The first ICWG!!
What do we want to accomplish?
Bryan A. Baum and Rob Roebeling
This is a collaborative effort!
We have had cloud retrieval evaluation workshops in:
Norrköping, Sweden
Locarno, Switzerland
Madison, Wisconsin USA
Grainau, Germany
Goals for the meeting:
Hear state-of-the-art talks on various topics
Address some of the overall objectives (on next slide)
Topical Groups: focus on 4 different issues and (hopefully) arrive at a clear path forward

2. Objectives of the CGMS-ICWG
identify and address research questions on level-2 cloud parameter retrieval algorithms and level-3 aggregation methods;
contribute to the assessment of differences between level-2 cloud parameter retrievals;
contribute to the validation of both level-2 cloud parameter retrievals and their error estimates;
contribute to process studies of clouds and/or convection;
foster commonality for level-2/level-3 operational cloud parameter retrievals and/or products among the different CGMS satellite operators;
support and stimulate training of the operational and scientific community;
enhance the communication in this field and develop international partnerships;
In addressing these objectives, and to underpin the value of cloud parameter retrievals in weather and climate applications, the Working Group proposes to promote the:
sharing of approaches among algorithm developers;
use of common ancillary data
use of a common set of forward simulators to analyse algorithm differences;
adoption of self-describing data formats for level-2 cloud parameter products;
adoption of standards for validation procedures and describing error estimates;
further improvement of level-2/level-3 cloud parameter retrievals;
characterization of level-2/level-3 cloud parameter retrieval uncertainties at different space/time scales;
more efficient process for addressing the research questions identified by space agencies and WMO programs (e.g. GEWEX);
use of traceable and common standards for the data records generated by the different providers;
establishment and coordination of sub-working groups addressing specific research topics.

3. Breakout Sessions Topic 1: Cloud mask Topic 2: Severe Weather
Topic 3: Assessment of retrieval uncertainties
Topic 4: Climate products
After the groups have met, the TG leads should provide a summary of the topics and issues raised, suggested future work, areas of concern, etc.

4. Organizational Issues
We are now the CGMS International Cloud Working Group
What does this mean for us?
We need to collaborate with other working groups
Next meeting
Propose is to have the next CREW in months
Suggestions for organizer and location of the next workshop?