Podcasts about cocorahs

Join the Everyday Environment team as we chat with Layne Knoche, Stormwater Outreach Associate, to explore the importance of rain gardens and how they help manage stormwater, support biodiversity, and improve water quality. We chat about some good design tips and ideas, the basic make-up of a rain garden and spend some extra time really diving into our obsession with native plants. Resources mentioned in the pod: CoCoRaHS community science projectRed Oak Rain GardenRed Oak Rain Garden ResourcesIllinois Groundwork Plant FinderLawn to Lake Midwest

Chris, Molly, and Nathan discuss the importance of CoCoRaHS observations and how you can become a volunteer. They also discuss the quick start to tornado season and when we can expect the warm weather to stick around. 

The National Weather Service relies on volunteer weather observers to provide real-time weather data. That data helps meteorologists make more accurate predictions. Tim Halbach is the warning coordination meteorologist for NWS-Milwaukee. He says one weather observer in one town isn't enough because precipitation amounts can vary greatly between miles alone. NWS and Mid-West Farm Report are encouraging you to sign up to be a weather observer! Just visit CoCoRaHs.org or wisconsinweatherwatchers.org, whichever is easier to remember -- they go to the same place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how your backyard rain gauge could help improve weather forecasts and even assist farmers? The National Weather Service is calling on Wisconsin residents to join the CoCoRaHS Network (Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network) through their Rain Gauge Rally. This volunteer network of dedicated weather watchers records rainfall, snowfall, and drought conditions right from their own backyards. Whether you're a farmer, teacher, or just fascinated by the weather, your observations can make a big impact. Michelle Margraf, Observation Program Leader with the National Weather Service, says Wisconsin volunteers are already playing a key role — and now there’s a friendly rivalry with Minnesota to recruit even more observers. Your reports could be the difference-maker! Currently, about 26,000 CoCoRaHS observers share data nationwide, including several hundred in Wisconsin. However, more volunteers are needed, particularly in rural areas. Central and northern Wisconsin, including regions between Stevens Point and Eau Claire, as well as north of Wausau, have a greater need for participants. To join the network, visit www.cocorahs.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Weather Service relies on volunteer weather observers to provide real-time weather data. Tim Halbach is the warning coordination meteorologist for NWS-Milwaukee. He says being a weather observer is easy and rewarding work! NWS and Mid-West Farm Report are encouraging you to sign up. Just visit CoCoRaHs.org or wisconsinweatherwatchers.org -- whatever is easiest to remember because they go to the same place!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin State Climatology Office and the National Weather Service are calling on residents to become citizen scientists. Throughout March and beyond, Wisconsinites can help by becoming official rainfall reporters and weather observers. "This is a fun activity, especially if you are a weather enthusiast or even if you just want to learn more about the weather," says Sarah Marquardt the Senior Service Hydrologist and Meteorologist with the National Weather Service out of Milwaukee. One of the best ways to contribute is through the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network, also known as CoCoRaHS. Volunteers measure daily precipitation using official rain gauges and submit their data online. Becoming a weather observer is easy and does not require daily reports. Volunteers can submit data when available, and the process only takes a few minutes. Training and resources are available at www.cocorahs.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin State Climatology Office and the National Weather Service are calling on residents to become citizen scientists. Throughout March and beyond, Wisconsinites can help by becoming official rainfall reporters and weather observers. “We want everyone to take part in collecting weather data,” said Bridget Mason, Assistant State Climatologist. “Your observations help provide a clearer picture of local weather patterns across Wisconsin.” One of the best ways to contribute is through the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network, also known as CoCoRaHS. Volunteers measure daily precipitation using official rain gauges and submit their data online. Becoming a weather observer is easy and does not require daily reports. Volunteers can submit data when available, and the process only takes a few minutes. Training and resources are available at www.cocorahs.org.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The folks you rely on to tell you if there’s going to be a snow day at school or flooding in your area get a lot of key information from you. The National Weather Service relies on volunteer weather observers to provide real-time weather data. Tim Halbach is the warning coordination meteorologist for NWS-Milwaukee. He says they’ve got a lot of technology to help them make forecasts, but nothing compares to what real people on the ground are seeing. NWS and Mid-West Farm Report are encouraging you to sign up! Just visit CoCoRaHs.org or wisconsinweatherwatchers.org -- whatever is easiest to remember because they go to the same place!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Kosta and his guest: Michael Detwiler, local weather observer, member of CoCoRaHS and known across the Upper Cumberland as the Cookeville Weather Guy. In this episode: I think the only fitting first question for this episode has to be: can we actually predict the weather? Why do other weather reporters get it so wrong? You're an on the ground weather observer and member of CoCoRaHS, for everyone just now realizing that's how it's pronounced will you tell us about the program and what weather observers do? Why does keeping track of weather events matter for our community? What can we learn from the research you've done over the past 45 years? Find out more about Michael Detwiler:https://www.facebook.com/CookevilleWeatherGuyhttps://www.instagram.com/cookevillewxguyhttps://tempestwx.com/station/67890/Find out more about CoCoRaHS:https://www.cocorahs.org/Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is a product of Morgan Franklin Media and recorded in Cookeville, TN.This episode of Better Together with Kosta Yepifantsev is made possible by our partners at Miss Sallie's Market.Find out more about Miss Sallie's Market:https://www.misssallies.com

CocoRahs is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hale, and Snow Network. In operation since 1997, it expanded to Canada in 2012, and now there are 20,000 participants across the country.

Historical weather event: Unusually early snowfall in parts of Iowa on October 10, 2009. Current forecast: Dry conditions with chances of frost in the coming week. Long-term outlook: Trending towards warmer temperatures after the frost event. Discussion of the U.S. Drought Monitor: Explanation of different drought types: meteorological, agricultural, hydrological, and socioeconomic. Current drought conditions in Iowa: 98% of the state is abnormally dry or in drought. Importance of accurate rainfall reporting (e.g., CoCoRaHS program). Specialty crop impacts: Basil harvest should be completed before frost. Sweet potatoes should be fine through the first frost night but harvested by Tuesday. Mention of a cauliflower variety (Twister) performing well. Discussion of a leaf blight issue in dill crops. Upcoming events: High tunnel short course on November 13th. Fresh Connect business coaching program launch. Brief mention of a fraud case involving ranchers tampering with weather stations to manipulate drought data. Announcement that the next episode (October 16th) will focus on frost and its impacts. The hosts noted this is their 29th episode of the year, marking a significant milestone in podcast production.

Weather Station Technology: Dan's personal weather station stopped working, prompting a discussion on what to look for in a new one. Basic weather stations measure temperature and precipitation, but more advanced ones can measure barometric pressure, wind speed, and direction. Historical context: National Weather Service coop stations have provided temperature and precipitation data for 152 years. Importance of proper placement and calibration for accurate wind speed and direction measurements. Types of Weather Stations: Wired vs. wireless weather stations. Different types of anemometers: cup anemometers, wind socks, and sonic anemometers. Tipping bucket rain gauges and heated rain gauges for winter measurements. Forecasting Capabilities: Some weather stations can predict weather based on barometric pressure trends. More advanced stations can use GPS data to pull forecasts from larger services. Community Weather Networks: Discussion on the CoCoRaHS network (Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network) and its importance for monitoring weather conditions. How to join CoCoRaHS: Purchase a rain gauge, register online, and report daily observations. Importance of consistent data reporting for federal and state programs. Data Verification and Usage: Personal weather stations can help verify extreme weather events, such as the 2020 derecho. CoCoRaHS data is used for drought monitoring and other agricultural programs. Listener Engagement: Encouragement for listeners in underrepresented areas like Northwest, West Central, and North Central Iowa to join CoCoRaHS. This podcast conversation continues with a discussion about a weather station network called NEWA (Network for Environment and Weather Applications), as discussed by Dan Fillius and Dr. Suzanne Slack. NEWA is a weather station network originally from Cornell University that provides weather data and applications for crop management, especially for fruit and vegetable growers. The network includes various apps that use weather data to help make decisions about pest control, disease management, and horticultural practices. NEWA integrates degree-day based and humidity-based models for predicting pest and disease issues in crops like apples, cabbage, potatoes, and tomatoes. Growers can join NEWA by purchasing a compatible weather station (costing between $1500-$3000) and paying an annual fee of $290 (for non-member states). The accuracy of predictions is best when a weather station is within about 5 kilometers of the crops. Anyone can access basic weather data and some predictive models on the NEWA website for free, even without owning a weather station. Dr. Slack is working to make Iowa a member state of NEWA by 2025, which requires six weather stations in the state (currently there are four). If Iowa becomes a member state, the annual fee for Iowa growers would be eliminated. Dr. Slack encourages interested growers to contact her for more information about joining NEWA.

Dr. Aaron Wilson joins us for our quarterly weather update. We look back on yet another warm winter and what that means for agriculture. We also discuss what spring weather patterns look like and how that may affect planting. Sign up to receive quarterly updates from the State Climate Office: climate.osu.edu/. Check out CoCoRaHS.org to learn more […]

Meteorologist Chip Redmond, manager of Kansas MesoNET discusses the recent cool down, impacts of El Nino, and MesoNET's CoCoRaHS tool.

By now if you're listening to the Farm Report regularly, you've heard our guests tell you how easy and how important it is to become a rainfall reporter. But did you know that help to get set up as a rainfall reporter can be local? Matt Brown is a CoCoRahs county leader in Sheboygan. He volunteers his time to help other local reporters get set up and answer questions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What could be more Wisconsin than talking about dairy and the weather? That's what we have in store for you on a Thursday morning. Cedar Crest Ice Cream and the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation have announced the winner and finalists of the 2022 Cedar Crest Ice Cream Flavor Creation Contest. Congratulations to the Pilsen Skylighters of Kewaunee County for their flavor, Cow Lick. Cedar Crest Marketing Manager Jennifer Flierl has the delicious details. As an agronomist at AgSource Laboratories, Tim Boerner relies on good weather reporting to make recommendations to his clients. That's one reason he's been a CoCoRaHS weather reporter for over 15 years. You can, too, at WisconsinWeatherWatchers.org Cody Koster with ever.ag has his attention on cheese, which has been moving progressively upward since the start of the week. It's also pushed Class III prices up to the higher $18 range. He goes over different factors that play into the dairy trade: demand and headlines, for example.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What market is right and viable for your farm? What resources are available? Answering those questions is Chris Kpman of Newtrient. He joins Pam Jahnke to talk about how they're helping farmers to take advantage of market opportunities. Whether it's deciding when to start salting and plowing operations, staging barricades for an expected flood-related road closure or planning maintenance operations, decisions made based on the forecast impact both operations and the budget. Charitee Seebecker visits with Meteorologist Taylor Patterson more about what she does everyday and how the general public can become weather observers through the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network or CoCoRaHS. John Heinberg, Market Advisor with Total Farm Marketing speaks with Charitee Seebecker about how the Silicon Valley Bank collapse may take some risk off trading. Russia/Ukraine grain deal to be extended and corn prices dropping last week are continuing to affect the corn and wheat market. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As an Agronomist at AgSource Laboratories, Tim Boerner relies on good weather reporting to make recommendations to his clients. That's one reason he's been a CoCoRahs weather reporter for over 15 years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're taking a week off and continuing to comb through all the amazing footage we're going to share with you from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Before then, James Brierton has a few quick announcements: Join us Tuesday, March 14 for a free SKYWARN storm spotter training: https://fb.me/e/DnYhxpud We invite you to join CoCoRaHS to report backyard precipitation amounts: https://www.cocorahs.org/ And stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes space content from our visit to NASA! LEAVE A TIP: https://streamelements.com/carolinawxgroup/tip BUY MERCH: https://bit.ly/3I3YAzx SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PODCAST: https://anchor.fm/carolinaweather SUPPORT US ON PATREON: https://patreon.com/carolinaweathergroup VISIT OUR WEBSITE: https://carolinaweathergroup.com The Carolina Weather Group operates a weekly talk show of the same name. Broadcasting each week from the Carolinas, the show is dedicated to covering weather, science, technology, and more with newsmakers from the field of atmospheric science. With co-hosts across both North Carolina and South Carolina, the show may closely feature both NC weather and SC weather, but the topics are universally enjoyable for any weather fan. Join us as we talk about weather, environment, the atmosphere, space travel, and all the technology that makes it possible. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/carolinaweather/message

We've already had more snow than we typically get during the winter, and a trifecta of weather systems will bring additional accumulation to the region over the next several days. Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld and Jim du Bois discuss the coming storms, the prospects for spring flooding, and the snow's impact on the drought. Also, a look at whether there's a correlation between heavy winter snowfall and an active severe weather season. Finally, an opportunity for volunteer amateur weather enthusiasts to measure precipitation and make a meaningful contribution to atmospheric science through the CoCoRaHS program.

The folks you rely on to tell you if there's going to be a snow day at school in the winter or flooding in your area in the summer… actually get a lot of key information from you. The National Weather Service relies on volunteer weather observers to provide real time weather data. That data helps meteorologists make more accurate predictions about potential risks. Tim Halbach is the warning coordination meteorologist for NWS-Milwaukee. He says they've got a lot of technology to help them make forecasts, but nothing compares to what real people on the ground are seeing. NWS and Mid-West Farm Report are encouraging you to sign up! Just visit CoCoRaHs.org or wisconsinweatherwatchers.org, whichever is easier to remember -- they go to the same place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Accurate weather forecasts are critical to local government. Whether it's deciding when to start salting and plowing operations, staging barricades for an expected flood-related road closure or planning maintenance operations, decisions made based on the forecast impact both operations and the budget. The key to improving weather forecasts and improving accuracy is knowing what actually happened on the ground—did the forecasted amount of rain fall? How much water is in the 8 inches of snow remaining on the ground? The National Weather Service, the Wisconsin State Climatologist, and University of Wisconsin-Madison's Division of Extension need your help in improving forecast accuracy—and it takes less than two minutes per day to check an official rain gauge once daily and provide the number to the National Weather Service. Meteorologist Taylor Patterson shares more about what she does everyday and how the general public can become weather observers through the Community Collaborative Rain, Hal and Snow Network or CoCoRaHS. To learn more or sign up to be a weather observer, visit wisconsinweatherwatchers.orgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join host Bob Hirshon, SciStarter founder Darlene Cavalier, Arizona State University's Deron Ash, Henry Reges from the weather watching project CoCoRaHS, and children's book author Susan Edwards Richmond for a special holiday podcast, featuring over a dozen great gift ideas for citizen science lovers! (Image: The crew of Expedition 46 decorated the International Space Station's Cupola module, a 360-degree series of windows that provides a stunning view of Earth for observations. Wikimedia, Public Domain.) Links to projects and websites mentioned in this podcast: Globe at Night AirCasting Raven CleanAir Map CO2 Monitor Review in New York Times Wirecutter iNaturalist CoCoRaHS Susan Edwards Richmond Links to Gift Ideas: Books! The Field Guide to Citizen Science by Darlene Cavalier BioBlitz! & BirdCount by Susan Edwards Richmond Citizen Science Tools! Airbeam 3 Sky Quality Meter (SQM-L) Discount Code: GAN-USE Aranet 4 Home (Email Dr. Freimark @ Freimark@saftehnika.com to request a discount) CoCoRaHS Rain Gauge and The Year-End Fundraiser For more ideas, visit our Library Build-A-Kit Page to find supplemental supplies to participate in specific citizen science projects Recommendation by a LIVE attendee: Foldscopes (Great gift for teachers!)   

Retired National Weather Service meteorologist Hugh Johnson joined Blaise Bryant and Brea Barthel to talk about the NY Mesonet and CocoRAHS networks.

Editor: Re: “Transitioning away from fossil fuels to ‘clean energy,'” Aug. 3. I have tracked rain at my home in Elmendorf for 30 years. For the last several, I have been part of CoCoRaHS network and report it daily. I have seen this dry spell coming for a while and now it is here. The climate is always varying — that is to be expected. The “carbon warriors” use events like this as justification to wreck good industries and enrich entrenched special interests who set up all this propaganda in the first place. It is not good to pollute, but...Article Link

While on his travels through Hawaii, Bob Bosold had the chance to learn more about pineapple production.  He caught up with Mo, a pineapple grower on the island of Maui.  Pineapple production has been greatly reduced in Hawaii over the recent past and just a few plantations still exist. Farmers and agriculturists are always watching the weather.  Why not contribute to the accuracy of weather reports and forecasts, and become an official rainfall reporter for the National Weather Service.  Kevin Erb with UW-Extension, who is also part of COCORAHS, shares some of the details on the program and how people can get involved. Farm director Pam Jahnke catches up with the Wisconsin Soybean Growers, this time chatting with Dr. Shawn Conley, UW-Extension Soybean Specialist.  They discuss some of the things farmers should have on their mind pre-planting, as well as some of the challenges producers may face this next growing season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Carolina Assistant State Climatologist Melissa Griffin shows how to record, measure, and report rainfall totals observed in your backyard through a volunteer program called CoCoRaHS. CoCoRaHS (pronounced KO-ko-rozz) 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. Here is how to join the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network: https://www.cocorahs.org/application.aspx Want to take your weather observation skills to the next level? Join the Carolina Weather Group and the National Weather Service on Tuesday, March 29 at 7 p.m. for an advanced SKYWARN storm spotter training class: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/986395392279449358 LEAVE A TIP: https://streamelements.com/carolinawxgroup/tip SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PODCAST: https://anchor.fm/carolinaweather SUPPORT US ON PATREON: https://patreon.com/carolinaweathergroup VISIT OUR WEBSITE: https://carolinaweathergroup.com The Carolina Weather Group operates a weekly talk show of the same name. Broadcasting each week from the Carolinas, the show is dedicated to covering weather, science, technology, and more with newsmakers from the field of atmospheric science. With co-hosts across both North Carolina and South Carolina, the show may closely feature both NC weather and SC weather, but the topics are universally enjoyable for any weather fan. Join us as we talk about weather, environment, the atmosphere, space travel, and all the technology that makes it possible. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/carolinaweather/message

MN DNR State Climatologist Luigi Romolo is asking for our help this time around, find out how to join the Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network

If you already keep your eye on the rain gauge, it might be worth it to start submitting your weather report to the National Weather Service. Sarah Marquardt is a service hydrologist with the National Weather Service in Milwaukee. She observes and forecasts rain with the goal of keeping people safe from hazardous weather. And she's calling on Wisconsinites to sign up to be a weather observer. Rainfall reporters help the National Weather Service create more accurate weather reports for your area. All you have to do is visit CoCoRaHs.org to sign up and attend a quick online training. Then, you're ready to report the weather from your own backyard. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Gerry Sorenson and Elmer (Pat Morrow) talk about Summer and Winter Skywarn, Winter Weather events, COCORAHS, and much more.

If you have a weather enthusiast in your family, here is a holiday gift idea. They can get a 4 inch rain gauge and join CoCoRaHS - the Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network. More CoCoRaHs observers are needed in the North Sound and they can join the team. Learn more in this Podcast and at cocorahs.org .

Grain Market Update The Potential for Herbicide Carryover Agricultural News Headlines Kansas Agricultural Weather   00:01:00 – Grain Market Update: K-State grain market economist Dan O'Brien recaps yesterday's USDA grain stocks and small grains summary reports and their coming influence on price trends. He also discusses what crop production and market issues are on the minds of agricultural lenders, as expressed earlier this week at K-State's Agricultural Lenders Conferences   00:12:00 – The Potential for Herbicide Carryover: K-State weed management specialist Sarah Lancaster and pesticide researcher, and now, agriculture research administrator at Oklahoma State University Scott Senseman, discuss the potential of herbicide carryover from this growing season to the next…they look at how herbicide types differ in their degradation in the soil and how weather patterns influence that   00:23:00 – Agricultural News Headlines: Eric Atkinson has a look at today's agricultural news headlines, plus this week's Wheat Scoop   00:31:00 – Kansas Agricultural Weather: K-State meteorologist Chip Redmond returns to talk more about the growth of the weather station network the K-State Mesonet system operates in Kansas. He also has information on how to be an active part in the COCORAHS weather data gathering program   Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu. Agriculture Today is a daily program featuring Kansas State University agricultural specialists and other experts examining ag issues facing Kansas and the nation. It is hosted by Eric Atkinson and distributed to radio stations throughout Kansas and as a daily podcast.   K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.

CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow), with the unique ability to capture fine-scale variability in local precipitation. CoCoRaHs is currently in all fifty states and currently expanding internationally as well. In this episode we are speaking with CoCoRaHs founder Nolan Doesken, National Coordinator Henry Reges, and Education Coordinator Noah Newman about the network's origins, current operations, how to get involved, and who uses the data collected.CoCoRaHs Network: https://www.cocorahs.org/National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) Climate Normals WxTalk Webinars (Weather Talk Webinars)If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider rating us and/or leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts, Podcast Addict, or Podchaser Thanks!Follow us on Twitter @RainShinePodNever miss an episode! Sign up to get an email alert whenever a new episode publishes (http://eepurl.com/hRuJ5H)Have a suggestion for a future episode? Please tell us! Affiliate links:DOI Southwest CASC: https://www.swcasc.arizona.edu/USDA Southwest Climate Hub: https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/southwestSustainable Southwest Beef Project: https://southwestbeef.org/

Parts of Minnesota have been abnormally dry for nearly a year, but there is at least some temporary relief on the way in the form of much needed rain tonight through the day on Wednesday.Rainfall amounts will range from 3/4” to 1 & 1/4” with some areas of the state receiving up to 2”. Most of the precipitation will come as rain but isolated pockets of snow cannot be entirely ruled out.The precipitation comes at a critical time according to climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld who says “well-timed precipitating weather systems 1 to 2 times a week, each one dropping a half-inch to an inch” are needed “right now through the beginning of the growing season.”And even more rain is needed beyond that point.“If we don't get at least 1” of precipitation per week by mid-May, we're in trouble,” says Blumenfeld.This is also the time of the year that the National Weather Service and the Minnesota State Climatology Office actively recruit citizen volunteers to report precipitation using a 4” rain gauge. The data from the CoCoRaHS program helps weather and climate experts better understand patterns of precipitation.Blumenfeld and co-host Jim du Bois discuss the severe weather of March 10th, signs that we could have a more active severe weather season based upon data on La Nina conditions and the complexities of seasonal forecasting.

State Climatologist Luigi Romolo encourages listeners to join CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. Volunteer weather observers collect precipitation data and other information to help accuracy.

State Climatologist Luigi Romolo encourages listeners to join CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. Volunteer weather observers collect precipitation data and other information to help accuracy.

State Climatologist Luigi Romolo encourages listeners to join CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. Volunteer weather observers collect precipitation data and other information to help accuracy.

Their motto is "Because every drop counts..." We meet Rick MacMillan, one of New Brunswick's CoCoRaHS volunteers who take daily measurements of precipitation for the CoCoRaHS network.

Last week, much of Minnesota saw record snowfalls for this early in the season followed by unseasonably cold temperatures, but the rest of October and early November should bring more fall-like weather. A trifecta of storms swept the state during the past week, starting with a record-breaking snow event on October 20th. “The Twin Cities had just shy of 8 inches,” says climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld. “I think we came in with an official tally of 7.9 inches for that storm. In parts of the south metro, some of the volunteers, those CoCoRaHS observers, had over 8” and (in some areas) even over 9.” A second storm impacted parts of the state on October 22nd followed by more snow over this past weekend. “The entire state has now seen accumulating snow,” says Blumenfeld. “This would be one of the earliest times on record that we've done that.” Temperatures plunged as well. “Some of our high temperatures were among the lowest that we have on record for October,” says Blumenfeld. “We didn't shatter any records, but we came within striking distance.”Blumenfeld says the good news is that the early snow and cold doesn't necessarily mean that we'll have a brutal winter. “As far as we can tell when we look at the Octobers and Novembers that have been cold and snowy, we don't really see any connection to the rest of winter.” A case in point, says Blumenfeld, is the winter of 1991-92 which was preceded by the infamous Halloween blizzard. That was a El Nino winter, and the state registered below-normal snowfall despite suffering through the Halloween event and another brutal storm during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.Blumenfeld and co-host Jim du Bois also discuss the relationship between snow cover and temperature and a new climate study that looks at the impact even slightly warming global temperatures can have on public health and agriculture.

MSM 470: CoCoRhee Kick ‘em in the Knee! CoCoRaHS Kick ‘em in the Other Knee! Jokes: Middle School Science Minute by Dave Bydlowski (k12science or davidbydlowski@mac.com) Middle School Science Minute: CoCoRaHS Reports from the Front Lines The Twitterverse Don’t forget to go to #mschat on Twitter every Thursday at 8:00 pm EST. Look for your host, Todd Bloch, to have a middle school topic all ready to go! Make it a strategic part of your personal professional development. Resources: University cheating might be up — but don't just blame students https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/university-cheating-might-be-up-but-don-t-just-blame-students-1.5618272 Why aren’t teachers using the resources companies sell to their districts? https://www.aei.org/research-products/report/why-arent-teachers-using-the-resources-companies-sell-to-their-districts/#annotations:ASyiMLiXEeqMUCsfij4Cpg Web Spotlight: Mountain Moot http://mountainmoot.com/ Principals Quarantine https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/California-principals-in-quarantine-after-15382142.php

What is the deal with rain this year? From deluge to drought! Visit with Acorn as she gives her version of the geologic formation of the Ozarks, describes what is going on in the garden, and shares her experiment using the tops from the Brussels sprouts (yes- you ARE supposed to prune them!).Check out the website www.blindhogandacorn.com and click on the post for Episode 6. There you will find the links to CoCoRaHS and the kimchee recipe.The Badger also pulls a hat trick, leaving Acorn in stitches. Enjoy!

This week on The Children's Hour, we learn all about porcupines. Kids are leading the research into these mysterious and elusive creatures in the Middle Rio Grande Valley with the Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Project - BEMP. It's just one project of citizen science we'll explore. Find out how you can be part of a mission to help NASA grow green chile in space. We've got great music on this show too. Find citizen science resources from BEMP here. Learn about CoCoRahs! There are more than 3000 citizen science projects at SciStarter. Show 10 25 50 100 entries Search: This is the playlist for the Citizen Science & Porcupines show titleartistalbumdurationlabel Stay At HomeDoctor NoizeStay At Home03:00Cory Cullinan 2020 Wash Your HandsThe Happy RacersSingle01:30SpinBoxClub - 2020 PorcupineSeth HoffmanSingle00:59Seth Hoffman PuercoespinTrepsiMusi00:58 2012 Catapult PorcupineArtichoke26 Animals01:51 2009 greeen How Do We Know?The Pop UpsGiants of Science01:55 2018 Pop Up City Records I Am a ScientistMates of StateScience Fair02:30 2012 Spare the Rock Records LLC Always HomeDuke OtherwiseKith & Kin03:17 2019 Duke Otherwise Hope MachineThe Okee Dokee BrothersSongs for Singin'02:47 2020 Okee Dokee Music LLC HappinessYanizaSecrets02:59 2016 Yaniza Showing 1 to 10 of 10 entries PreviousNext

https://conservationprotraining.org/upcoming-trainings/

Links of interestsFlowers:Nasturtium ‘Baby Rose' from Park Seed Nasturtium 'Empress of India' from Renee's Garden Seeds.Other Nasturtiums from Botanical Interests Previous episode where we talk about violas and pansies. Veggies:  Upland Cress from  Johnny's Selected Seeds. Corn Salad or Mache  from Botanical Interests Seeds.  Arugula or rocket from Botanical Interests Seeds  Mesclun from Botanical Interests Seeds On the Bookshelf:  Mastering the Art of Vegetable Gardening, by Matt Mattus  Mastering the Art of Flower Gardening, by Matt Mattus Dirt: CoCoRaHS - Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network.  Volunteers register their location and then record daily rainfall totals on the CoCoRaHS website. Rain gauge from Weather Your Way Email us at TheGardenangelists@gmail.com and look for us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and now Pinterest.For more info on Carol, visit her website.For more info on Dee, visit her website.We also invite you to join The Gardenangelists Garden Club on Facebook.(Some links are affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on an affiliate link, we may receive a tiny commission. It does not affect the price you pay!)

State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about CoCoRaHS, the nationwide network of volunteers who collect and measure precipitation.

It’s getting droughty up in here!Have you felt like there just wasn’t as much water around lately…? From lower precipitation to less snow accumulation in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest…it’s getting dry in here!Droughts can be caused by a number of circumstances, but typically the droughts of the Pacific Northwest are impacted by low precipitation coupled with warmer temperatures (El Nino events). Winter snowpack plays an important role in ensuring that we have sufficient stream flows throughout the summer. What we are experiencing in Western Washington this year is a low precipitation drought. The low snowpack coupled with hot temperatures in April melted more snow, earlier than normal. In western Washington, we depend on the slow melt of snow in the higher elevations to keep streams and rivers flowing throughout the summer, when we typically do not see much additional precipitation. Even in May, which is typically still considered part of our rainy season, our area continued to see low monthly accumulations and higher than normal temperatures. In May, Olympia, WA only had 0.9 of an inch of rain, which is only 39% of the average of 2.33 inches of rain.Most of Western Washington is under the Severe Drought classification from the US Drought Monitor. In addition, the Governor of Washington, Jay Inslee, in 2019, has already declared a Drought Emergency in 27 counties!In Washington State, drought is defined in statute (RCW 43.83B) as conditions where water supply is anticipated to be less than 75 percent of normal and there is anticipated hardship to water users and uses.The US Drought Monitor is a federal program created in 2000. They classify the entire US into 6 categories of drought intensity from normal (non-drought) to exceptional drought. With each level of intensity comes additional associated water conservation actions that range from voluntary water use restrictions to widespread water shortages leading to a water emergency.The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) has an on-line map, which shows the location and intensity of drought across the country. The data is updated each Tuesday and released on Thursday. See the GIS section below for links!Oregon DroughtWashington DroughtU.S. Drought Monitor also evaluates different drought impact categories, which includes agriculture, business and industry, energy, fire, plants and wildlife, public health, tourism and recreation, and water supply.According to the US Drought Monitor: There are over 5 million people in Washington that are experiencing drought conditions currently and almost 2 million in Oregon. Western Washington is the only area that is experiencing severe drought currently.According to the Department of Ecology, here's the latest conditions as of June 19, 2019:Looking at the 7-day average, more than half of the rivers in the state are showing stream flows in the bottom 10 percent of flows measured for this time of year.Daytime temperatures in the Yakima River are reaching 80 degrees F., which becomes a thermal block for fish movement.How can you help? You can report any drought conditions to the Department of Ecology, and water conservation is always important.Many streams in Western Washington are already below normal volumes for this time of year. Likely these conditions will continue through the summer without additional precipitation. Check out some of the following websites for more information on stream flows.Northwest River Forecast WebsiteEcology Stream Flow WebsiteWhat is the forecast for the summer weather?NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center has forecast warmer and drier conditions for the westside of Washington state from June to August. In addition, weak El Nino conditions still exist and there is a 70% chance they will continue through the summer.Typically areas that are classified by the US Drought Monitor as being under severe drought classification can expect to experience crop or pasture loss, common water shortages and see water restrictions imposed.What are the expected climate change impacts to the Pacific Northwest Droughts?As one may be able to assume, climate change is predicted to increase droughts in some areas, by both increasing the temperature and changing the precipitation cycle.In Western Washington, for example, the total annual accumulation of precipitation is not expected to change drastically. However, the time of year that we see the precipitation will play a critical role in precipitation cycle. Currently, we get precipitation about 9 months out of the year, with the bulk of that coming down as snow in the mountains during the winter. The forecasted precipitation is projected to show up later in the year, when it’s warmer, meaning less snow and less snowpack accumulation in the winter, which will result in lower summertime in-stream flows. This will be compounded by warmer temperatures, which will exacerbate future drought conditions.What does a drought mean for the Pacific Northwest?According to the Department of Ecology’s website:Drought conditions expose different populations and communities to different levels of vulnerabilities.By declaring a drought emergency, the Department of Ecology can offer vital support to these communities. This designation allows Ecology to expedite emergency water right permitting. For instance, one farmer may lease water to another farmer and Ecology can expedite that transfer.It also allows them to make funds available to address hardships caused by drought conditions. On June 4, Ecology announced a grant program to help with drought response.Drought can result in water shortages for agriculture, energy, people and ecosystem services:AgricultureWater rights can be impacted, with senior water rights, including in-stream flow, having the “first dibs” on water and then if there is not enough water left in the streams, junior water right holders may not be able to access the water.EnergyHydroelectric power can be impacted by lower snowpack.PeopleIncreases in water use due to summer irrigation and increased water use around people’s homes. Water withdrawal from surface and groundwater can be impacted by less precipitation and an increased demand for water from multiple sources.Ecosystem ServicesFish - low flows and subsurface flows, increased temperatures, decreased dissolved oxygen (DO), and increased biological activity (growth) can all have a negative impact on fish survival and in some cases can lead to fish kills.Stressed plant communities - Western Washington has recently seen an increase in plant impacts from multiple years of higher heats and less precipitation; these include iconic northwest trees such as madrona, cedar, big leaf maple and other plants such as salal, which has seen a huge die back on Vancouver Island.Increased fire risk due to lower precipitation and higher temperatures. Low soil moisture content and low humidity also contribute to increased risk of wildfire.OSU-extension developed a cool handout that shows some best practices to recover from a wildfire.To learn about fire and wildfire preparedness, listen to Episode 9: Fire Must BURN!Learn more about how the City of Port Orchard stopped any further construction in the new McCormick Woods development due to concerns of having insufficient drinking water supplies. This is a big deal for a local municipality, since permitting is an important revenue source. Check out this interview with KOMO news or this article in the Kitsap Sun Newspaper to learn more about the City’s plans. The City is continuing to work with the developer and the City of Bremerton to find a solution.What can you do to minimize the impacts of a drought?As an individual, conserving water is the best way to mitigate for the impacts of drought.We suggest you start with a water audit to calculate your water use footprint. We used the www.watercalculator.org website to calculate our average water footprint per day. Basically you answer a series of questions about your typical indoor, outdoor and virtual water use.Some interesting things discussed in the calculator include the virtual water use items. For example:It takes an enormous amount of water to produce animal products like meat and dairy, because livestock and poultry in the US eat large amounts of water-intensive feed – usually corn and soybeans. Agricultural withdrawals account for 70% of water use around the world.Because irrigation-related water consumption is so high, it’s important to make water-wise food and textile purchases!Cotton takes a lot of water because it is typically grown in arid regions, which require irrigation.It’s good to think about how goods are moved around the planet and consider how much water is moved and consumed in the process, even though it’s hidden from sight!Things like smart phones take over 3,000 gallons of water to produce, which is associated with both their manufacturing and disposal of wastewater that is diluted with freshwater to meet water quality standards.Did you know that it takes 22 gallons of water to make one pound of plastic? This means it takes twice as much water to produce a plastic water bottle as the water that is contained in it!How can you save water?According to the water calculator website, these 5 simple steps can help you save water:STEP 1: Change your dietIt takes water – a lot of it – to grow, process and transport your food. When you eat lower on the food chain, eat more whole foods and waste less food, you also save water.STEP 2: Cut indoor water useEvery day, you rely on water for a wide variety of uses around the house. There are lots of opportunities to cut back on water use in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room and even by fixing leaks.Toilets are the largest water consumers in da house! Typically they account for about 30% of overall household water use. Using a low flow toilet, fixing any toilet leaks and considering letting it mellow are all ways to minimize water use. A leaking toilet can waste 200 gallons per day!Fix leaks! Leaks just waste water and even a small drip can add up to a lot of water over time.Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth or lathering your hands.Keep showers short and consider skipping a day every once in a while, in the name of water conservation, of course! Replace shower heads that have a flow rate greater than 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) per minute (the current national energy policy act standard).If the shower head is not labeled, the flow rate can be checked by catching the water in a 1-gallon (3.8 liters) bucket. If it takes less than 24 seconds to fill up, the shower head flow rate is more than 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) per minute. The U.S. EPA WaterSense program labels efficient shower heads that use a maximum 2.0 gallons (7.6 liters) per minute.High Efficiency dishwashers typically use less water than doing dishes by hand, but make sure to do full loads. The same goes for the laundry; having a high efficiency washer can save a lot of water.STEP 3: Use less water outdoorsOf all the residential water we use in the US, on average we use about a quarter outdoors. In some western states it’s half to three-quarters, primarily for lawns and gardens. A few simple steps can reduce your outdoor water consumption, so tighten those taps, eliminate those leaks and use water wisely.Outdoor water use accounts for 30% of the average daily water use in the United States! In hot summer months or dry areas, outdoor water use can account for up to 70%.Choose drought tolerant plant species and minimize turf and lawn areas. WSU-extension has some great resources for drought tolerant plants.Use a timer to prevent over-watering; most lawns need 1” of water per week. Watering longer promotes deeper root growth, which makes the grass more resilient.STEP 4: Save energy, save waterWater and energy are linked. It takes water to make energy (electricity and transportation fuels) and it takes energy to move, heat and treat water. When you save energy you also save water.STEP 5: Change buying habitsPractically everything you buy, use and consume has a water footprint because it took water to process and transport it. Being thoughtful about purchases, reusing where you can and recycling can reduce your water footprint.Try to consider the water footprint of various products that you purchase; remember that bottle of water took a lot more water to produce than just the water inside of it! Meat and textile production are very water intensive.Also, you can become a water detective, by paying attention to your water bill. Do you see an unexpected increase in water use? If so, check for leaks! Knowing how much water you typically use will help you determine if there is a concern or you have been able to reduce your water use!Still want to know more?!Ya, cool cats usually do…check out these links for lots more information!Department of Ecology’s Water Conservation PageThe Alliance for Water Efficiency Drought and Drought Response, Business and Industry tips and Water Conservation TipsEPA’s WaterSenseWashington State Department of Health Drinking Water and DroughtGIS Time! How do they make that cool US Drought Monitor Map?The information for this segment of the podcast comes from a slide show given by Eric Luebehusen, a meteorologist and one of the authors of the US Drought Monitor (USDM) Map. He does a fabulous job of explaining the history of the map and how it’s created today, so I won’t repeat it all here, and we won’t have a separate GIS Tools blog this week.The USDM map started out as a really pixelated drawing back in August of 1999, but eventually moved over to GIS and uses a lot of science-based layers today. They still create all of the drought shapes by hand, which takes 10-20 volunteer hours per week! See the whole slide deck here.Citizen Science: Drought Reporting and Weather Stations!Are you being affected by drought? You can submit a report about how lack of water is affecting you through the Drought Impact Reporter from the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska. The format of the report is a Survey123 app, which the Magical Mapper has mentioned before on the podcast. You can also attach photos and report on any and all of the questions they ask about, which include agriculture, municipal water supply, and fish and wildlife habitat impacts. You can then see the reports in an awesome story map! This is just a starting point for interested parties to see what’s going on, and is based solely on media reports and subjective volunteer reports.Want to have a bit more impact? You can become a CoCoRaHS reporter! CoCoRaHS stands for Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network. This network of volunteers have purchased high quality rain gauges that cost around $35 and report precipitation amounts each day. You do need to commit to reading and emptying your rain gauge at the same time every day. These reports are then used by a wide variety of people, including the National Weather Service, climatologists, researchers, insurance industry, forensic detectives, and the US Drought Monitor, just to name a few. Even readings of 0 rain are very important and help researchers study and identify drought conditions.Thanks for joining us!As always, please rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Please let us know what you think at outalivepodcast.com or facebook.com/WillWeMakeItOutAlive. If you like the podcast, please tell all of your friends! And family! And co-workers! And strangers!See you next month!

Melissa Griffin is the Assistant State Climatologist for South Carolina and the newest panel member of the Carolina Weather Group. Join us as we introduce you to Melissa. Melissa talks about her studies, passions and projects, including the South Carolina CoCoRaHS network of volunteer rain spotters. We'll also have the latest on the ongoing storm threat in the Carolinas, including threatening winter weather and flooding conditions --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/carolinaweather/message

Bonnie and Bobby break down the rainfall records of Hurricane Florence and the flooding that has resulted with the impressive amount of rain that has fallen. We talk about the importance of having weather spotters and how one member of CoCoRaHs is responsible for the new North Carolina rainfall record, and we get the Oklahoma and Oregon forecast updates.

CoCoRaHS founder Nolan Doesken joins the Carolina Weather Group to discuss the grassroots volunteer network of backyard weather observers. Learn how the network started and how volunteers of all ages and backgrounds work together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow) in their local communities.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/carolinaweather/message

Recorded Wednesday, 3/9/2015Topics included: SC Rivers Foreverwww.SCRiversForever.org Resource Page:  www.SCRiversForever.org/resourcesVideos:  www.SCRiversForever.org/videosJames Smith Legislationwww.scstatehouse.gov/sess121_2015-2016/bills/3564.htm Video including Senator Campsen's words:  SC RIvers Flow to the SeaIncredibly long commercial for Tyler Brothers Amanda Brennan InterviewCICA - Carolinas Integrated Sciences & Assessmentswww.cisa.sc.eduCoCoRaHS - Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Networkwww.cocorahs.org/ Gus Speth Interview Angels by the River - Gus Speth