Filling the observational void: Scientific value and quantitative validation of hydrometeorological data from a community-based monitoring programme

- Community hydrometeorological data is statistically validated against formal data.
- Reliable and consistent measurements can be obtained by local residents.
- Scientist and community partnership improves hydrometeorological monitoring.
- Improved spatial and temporal detail of rainfall, river flow and groundwater level.
- Benefits to the community include a greater understanding of their local hydrology.

SummaryThis study shows how community-based hydrometeorological monitoring programmes can provide reliable high-quality measurements comparable to formal observations. Time series of daily rainfall, river stage and groundwater levels obtained by a local community in Dangila woreda, northwest Ethiopia, have passed accepted quality control standards and have been statistically validated against formal sources. In a region of low-density and declining formal hydrometeorological monitoring networks, a situation shared by much of the developing world, community-based monitoring can fill the observational void providing improved spatial and temporal characterisation of rainfall, river flow and groundwater levels. Such time series data are invaluable in water resource assessment and management, particularly where, as shown here, gridded rainfall datasets provide gross under or over estimations of rainfall and where groundwater level data are non-existent. Discussions with the local community during workshops held at the setup of the monitoring programme and since have demonstrated that the community have become engaged in the project and have benefited from a greater hydrological knowledge and sense of ownership of their resources. This increased understanding and empowerment is at the relevant scale required for effective community-based participatory management of shallow groundwater and river catchments.