• • Plastic Bottle
• • Ruler
• • Permanent Marker
• • Scissors

The Ancient Greeks started measuring rainfall back in 500 B.C. We figure if they can do it with minimal tools, so can we.

Line up your ruler against the bottom of the bottle, and mark off inch and half-inch measurements from the bottom up. 

If the bottom isn't flat, drop in some small pebbles to create a flat surface, then measure from there.

To lessen the effect of the sun on our rain supply, we need to create a funnel to trap the water inside.

Using your scissors or knife, cut off the top of the bottle.

Make sure to cut at the widest part before it starts to narrow so our top will fit snug in the bottom.

Remove the cap from your bottle, then take the top part you just cut off, flip it, and slide it into the bottom part of the bottle. 

If you added pebbles to your bottle, add just enough water to cover them so the top of the water is even with your zero-inch mark.

Rain gauges are often used to estimate plant growth or quality of land, so we suggest setting your gauge in your garden.

It should be free from any obstructions above. Dig a little hole for it or place rocks around it to secure it in place.

Next time it rains, try to guess how much will fall. Or check on it regularly to see if it's time to bring out the hose.