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). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive Web-site, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications.

Project Goal?
CoCoRaHS goals include 1) to provide high-quality precipitation data for many end users on a timely basis; 2) increasing the density of precipitation data available throughout the country by encouraging volunteer weather observing; 3) encouraging citizens to have fun participating in meteorological science and heightening their awareness about weather; 4) providing enrichment activities in water and weather resources for teaches, educators and the community at large to name a few. 

Where does the project take place? 
The network started in Fort Collins, CO and has expanded to every U.S. state as well as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, The Bahamas, and Canada. 

When can volunteers participate? 
Volunteers participate daily by measuring participation and reporting through the CoCoRaHS data entry form on the website. Participants can also enter precipitation over multiple days if they are not able to participate daily. 

Is training needed to participate? 
Yes - but minimal! Short training videos are available on the website.

Who is this project ideal for? 
Families or individuals. This is a community project. Everyone can help, young, old and in-between. The only requirements are an enthusiasm for watching and reporting weather conditions and a desire to learn more about how weather can affect and impact our lives. 

How to get started? 
Sign up to be a volunteer observer on the site for your state below: 

• New Hampshire CoCoRaHS
• Maine CoCoRaHS
• Vermont CoCoRaHS
• Massachusetts CoCoRaHS
• Rhode Island CoCoRaHS
• Connecticut CoCoRaHS

Other information? 
CoCoRaHS is used by a wide variety of organizations and individuals.  The National Weather Service, other meteorologists, hydrologists, emergency managers, city utilities (water supply, water conservation, storm water), insurance adjusters, USDA, engineers, mosquito control, ranchers and farmers, outdoor & recreation interests, teachers, students, and neighbors in the community are just some examples of those who visit our Web site and use our data. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) have been major sponsors of CoCoRaHS. 

Questions? Contact:
Mary Lemcke-Stampone, (603) 862,3136, mary.stampone@unh.edu