This document provides an overview of the history and scientific basis of cloud seeding. It discusses the conceptual model of cloud seeding, including that seeding material must be transported to clouds containing supercooled liquid water. Past research is summarized, including studies of seeding materials, transport and dispersion modeling, measurements of supercooled liquid water, and measurements showing microphysical and precipitation responses to seeding. Current research projects aiming to further validate the effects of cloud seeding are also mentioned. Hydrologic modeling techniques used to assess the impact of cloud seeding on streamflow are briefly outlined.