Martin SWCD is involved in the Statewide Rain Gauge Precipitation Monitoring network.  Minnesota has one of the most extensive rain gauge monitoring systems in the country and the SWCD's in Minnesota maintain the largest collection of gauges in this program.

On April 1st of each year, our rain gauge volunteers begin monitoring rainfall for the coming growing season.  In Martin County we have 17 volunteers that do a great job of recording rainfall each day from April-September and submitting their forms to our office.

Each volunteer is given a special gauge to monitor.  They read their gauge daily and then submit their forms monthly to the Martin SWCD where it is recorded and then sent to the State Climatologist's Office in St. Paul.  The data is compiled into reports at the state level that are used for many purposes.  Data collected is used in the analysis or flash floods, droughts, monthly and seasonal precipitation patterns and soil moisture.  Another of the uses for the data is for legal purposes.  The State Climatology Office receives requests for information to be used as evidence in legal proceedings.  For instance, information might be needed for the weather conditions in a specific place on a specific day for maybe a case involving a car accident.  The office will provide information form reports that have been sent in by our volunteers.

The State Climatology Office maintains a web site that has information on present weather conditions, rainfall and snow depth maps, drought monitors, historical data and other information on our weather.  That web site is: www.climate.umn.edu 

We have some very dedicated volunteers, and without their help the program would not be possible.  Our volunteers in Martin County do a great job  performing an important public service and we thank them for their efforts.  If you are interested in becoming a rain gauge volunteer please contact our office at (507) 235-6680 or email cathy.thiesse@mn.nacdnet.net.  We would like to recognize our volunteers and to get an idea of 2007 precipitation across Martin County click here.

HOME

The contents are the property of Martin SWCD.  The District's goal is to provide quality and accurate information.  All information within this site is subject to change and should only serve as a guideline for the District's services and procedures.  For the most Current and accurate information please contact the District at (507) 235-6680.