The Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist will enter a new chapter this July as John Krasting, a Rutgers-trained scientist with a deep background in climate modeling and public communication, steps into the role of state climatologist.
Krasting succeeds David Robinson, a distinguished Professor of Geography at Rutgers who is retiring after a historic 35-year tenure. Robinson, the longest-serving state climatologist in U.S. history, transformed the office into a vital resource for emergency managers, farmers, and policymakers.
For Krasting, a native of Wenonah, the appointment represents a professional homecoming. He earned both his bachelor’s degree in meteorology (2003) and his doctorate in atmospheric science (2008) from Rutgers.
For the past 15 years, Krasting has served at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory in Princeton. His work there focused on complex ocean and climate modeling, including critical research into sea-level rise and coastal inundation—issues that are central to New Jersey’s future.
“John brings together the best of what this moment requires: world-class climate science, deep technical expertise, a gift for public communication, and a lifelong connection to Rutgers,” Laura Lawson, executive dean of agriculture and natural resources said.
Krasting arrives at a pivotal time, as the state faces increased challenges from extreme weather, flooding, and shifting water resources. He plans to leverage his unique background—which includes experience as a broadcast meteorologist for FOX stations in New York and Philadelphia—to ensure that complex scientific data is translated into practical information for the public.
“We’re in a phase where basic climate research has to become information people can use,” Krasting said. “Success in my tenure will be if every New Jerseyan feels that they can pick up the phone, call our office, and get whatever information they need about our climate from our team.”
As he prepares to step down, Robinson leaves behind a state more climate-aware than he found it. Since 1991, he has become a familiar voice during New Jersey’s most intense weather events, from blizzards to Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Ida. Under his leadership, the Rutgers New Jersey Weather Network (NJWxNet) grew into one of the most robust statewide systems of weather stations in the country.
Reflecting on his career, Robinson emphasized that the role of the office is not to dictate policy, but to provide the foundation of knowledge necessary for informed decision-making.
“Few scientists become part of the civic fabric of a state; Dave Robinson has done exactly that,” Lawson added. “His legacy is measured not only in publications, grants, and weather stations, but in trust.”
