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| Weather observers encouraged to attend course for data collecting |
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CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, is a grassroots volunteer network of backyard weather observers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow) in their local communities. By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, the aim is to provide the highest quality data for agriculture, natural resource, education and research applications. The only requirements to join are an enthusiasm for watching and reporting weather conditions and a desire to learn more about how weather can affect and impact our lives.
The CoCoRaHS web page provides the ability for contributing observers to see their observations mapped out in “real time”, as well as providing a wealth of information for data users. Ohio is underrepresented by volunteer reporters relative to neighboring states so additional observers are being sought.
The precipitation data collected by CoCoRaHS volunteers helps the National Weather Service verify and improve its forecasts, and university researchers can use the data to advance the science of meteorology.
Volunteers are required to complete a short training course to learn how to make accurate precipitation measurements. We plan to host such a class in Shelby County, Ohio. Those unable to attend in person may complete the online training program available through the CoCoRaHS website.
In order to measure rainfall, a rain gauge is required, and volunteers need to acquire one if they do not have one. Volunteers make daily precipitation measurements, and enter precipitation data through the CoCoRaHS website between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. daily.
A table containing data collected by CoCoRaHS volunteers is posted daily on National Weather Service websites. For more information on becoming a volunteer, or contact the Ohio state or regional coordinator listed on their website www.cocorahs.org/
At the Jan. 10 West Ohio Agronomy Day, Ohio State University Extension’s Harold Watters plans to share his experiences with CoCoRaHS. In addition to his Champaign County ag extension role, Watters is a certified crop advisor and certified professional agronomist. He notes the value of more complete weather records for crop producers, including those of the CoCoRaHS system. If interest from our area farmers is significant, we plan to acquire the official precipitation tracking gauges for at least one crop producer in each of our fourteen townships.
Last week’s Ohio Farm News column highlighted the presentations planned for Jan. 10 by state Extension specialists from Ohio State and Purdue. In addition to those outstanding speakers and Watters, continued interest in the use of cover crops prompted us to invite Fairfield County farmer David Brandt to speak. Brandt has explored the benefits of cover crops for over 10 years and provided tillage radish seed to many area farmers this fall to be seeded with wheat. Winter months are the time to work on maintaining farm equipment of all types. Area farmer and consultant Bill Lehmkuhl’s presentation, “Timely Planter and Drill Adjustments,” may help you establish priorities for your shop schedule.
The “Grand Lake Update” provided by Extension’s Jim Hoorman should lend us insight on regulations that might impact all farmers in the not too distant future.
Reservations received by Friday save $5. Please use the flier on our website at http://shelby.osu.edu/topics/agriculture-and-natural-resources/2010-west-
ohio-agronomy-day |
| 1/5/2011 |
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