The Weather Station Project

With Let's Kite and the community's help, we aim to create and support the development of a network of weather stations/beacons. This is to monitor real-time wind conditions at snowkite and kitesurfing spots that aren't currently equipped.

The idea behind this project is to help all types of riders find the best current conditions, and also avoid unnecessary trips just to "check conditions."
To develop this beacon network, we're working on two axes:

We regularly conduct surveys to determine where weather stations would be most relevant and if they would benefit the community. Then we develop the project (Permission requests, funding, installation, maintenance). This applies when a station can be installed in a region close to our base (Yverdon-les-bains, Switzerland)
When there's a need to install a beacon in a more distant region, we act as consultants to help local clubs, hotels, or schools choose the most suitable beacon based on local constraints.

So far, we've managed to install 9 weather stations across 4 lakes (Lake Geneva, Lake Joux, Lake Neuchâtel, Lake Annecy) and our ambition is to continue covering all spots. Our motto: "One spot, one beacon," because over the years we've become convinced of this network's usefulness and strength.

With the recent emergence of Wing foiling, the number of possible spots has literally exploded, and this network we're building will certainly serve all riding communities on our lakes and distant seas. We can imagine that sailing, SUP, and wakeboarding communities will also become interested in the project as the weather beacon network continues to grow!

Stations in Development

Niremont Station | Snowkite

Authorization request:

Funding:

Station installation:

Project Overview:

Niremont is a reference snowkite spot. In good weather with bise wind, you can find top-class conditions. The only problem is that it's not always easy to know the actual conditions at the spot, and the travel time + access through the ski resort (or hiking) makes the trip frustrating if conditions aren't right. The station should address this issue.

Current Project Status:

Location found, landowner authorization obtained. We're studying the best station to install.

Auberson Station | Snowkite

Authorization request:

Funding:

Station installation:

Project Overview:

The Auberson spot is heavily used by local snowkite schools as it's a large plateau just above 1000m altitude and works well in many wind directions. An ideal spot for beginners and racers; for those who prefer elevation changes, the Chasseron is better.

Current Project Status:

Location found, owner authorization obtained. We're studying the best station to install.

Stations Funded by the Let's Kite Project

[Previous station cards maintained with English translations]

How to Install a Weather Station at Your Spot:

The key to this type of project is finding a location that can host a beacon. The location must first be very well positioned for wind measurement - this may seem obvious, but unreliable data won't interest anyone. The location must also be relatively secure (elevated), the beacon shouldn't be easily accessible to the public, otherwise it will definitely disappear. Finally, the location must be accessible to those responsible for maintenance. Once the location is found and approved by your community, the hardest part begins: obtaining installation authorization, which can be a lengthy phase requiring patience.

After finding the location, you'll need to choose the weather station that suits you. There are several types of weather stations, some better suited for specific uses and your constraints. The best approach is to contact us, and we'll gladly guide you to the best technical solutions. Once the station is chosen, funding becomes the next question. There are several solutions - you can launch a community fundraiser or ask your local municipality to help fund the project. Station costs range from 400 to 1000 Euros, depending on the type chosen.

The 3 Phases of a Weather Station Project:

First phase: Find location, Request authorizations, Define most suitable weather station type, Calculate costs.
Second phase: Launch fundraising, Crowdfunding and/or company sponsorship.
Third phase: Station installation, configuration and website integration.