Part 8: Getting Started: Designating Study Locations, Photography, and Precipitation

Measuring Precipitation

Measuring and recording precipitation is necessary for a complete monitoring program, regardless of the level of monitoring you choose for your ranch. Some ranchers will have access to Weather Service data (or other local data) for precipitation amounts in their area, but this is uncommon and is usually a poor estimate of the amount of precipitation that actually fell on your ranch. The best way to have accurate data for your ranch is to collect your own.

You will want to have at least one rain gauge for your ranch. Ideally, you will have approximately one gauge per 10,000 acres; more if you have elevation changes of greater than 4,000 feet on the property. With these elevation changes, have at least one gauge at the lower elevation and one at the higher elevation.

Although you can easily make a rain gauge, it is preferred to purchase one already made. They are relatively inexpensive and most work quite well. You will want to contact your local Cooperative Extension agent for suggestions of where to purchase a rain gauge and which brand they recommend. Methods of how to keep records of precipitation will probably come with the gauge.