Get reliable science

Precipitation is both highly spatially and temporally variable in Arizona, which adds a major challenge to decision-making for livestock allotments. MyRAINgeLog allows users to not only log precipitation observations but also track if the observation is above or below average for a specific time period and location. This information is critical to interpreting on the ground conditions and puts small-scale observations into a larger climatological context. �At two allotments in central Arizona, long-term precipitation data entered into MyRAINgeLog and paired with rangeland monitoring data. Information on the amount and timing of precipitation can be an important piece of the puzzle when interpreting changes in vegetation from year to year. After several years, an underlying relationship between vegetation changes and precipitation at each ranch will become more apparent. Understanding these fluctuations can help adapt management in years of drought. Ranchers can anticipate how vegetation might change with a decrease in precipitation based on prior years and adapt their management efforts. MyRAINgeLog combined with rangeland monitoring data, repeat photography, and records about management actions provide multiple tools for ranchers in developing an allotment specific drought management plan.