Webster County Weather Observers Receive 30 Year Length of Service Award

Arnold Merrill and Nick Blankenbaker were honored on February 13 th, 2006, for their continued work as the staff observers at a Webster County power plant. They both received a 30 Year Length of Service staff award, for their fine work as Cooperative Weather Observers. The award was presented by Mr. Steve Carmel, representing the National Weather Service office in Hastings.  

During periods of heavy rain, snow, or severe weather, Mr. Merrill and Mr. Blankenbaker have contacted the National Weather Service, and provided the latest data possible. They both have provided quality information to the National Weather Service in a timely and efficient manner.

At 700 AM each day, the cooperative weather observation involves the reporting of the maximum and minimum temperatures in the past 24 hour period, the temperature at observation time, along with 24 hour precipitation, snowfall and snow depth information.  

Data provided by cooperative observers is used by the National Weather Service, the Army Corps of Engineers, the United States Geologic Survey, and numerous others both in the public and private sectors. This data eventually becomes a permanent part of the climatic record for the local area, and the nation.

There are over 300 official volunteer cooperative weather observers in Nebraska, and nearly 11,000 nationwide.

Observers are placed at private residences, farms, municipal facilities, utilities, dams, parks, game refuges, radio and television stations, and other locations.

The nation owes a debt of gratitude to the cooperative weather observers who have quietly and steadily built up what amounts to a priceless service.

Nick Blankenbaker is located below left  and Arnold Merrill is in the picture on the right side of the frame.