This year, the Henry Brecher Technical Achievement Award proudly recognizes Assistant State Climatologist Jim DeGrand for his outstanding contributions to the Ohio Mesonet, a project under the State Climate Office of Ohio (SCOO). With a remarkable career spanning over three decades at The Ohio State University's Department of Geography, DeGrand emerged from retirement to join SCOO and take on the challenge of upgrading the Ag Weather Network by overhauling and expanding the monitoring infrastructure. His expertise in designing and strategically placing new stations at agricultural research sites has ensured the collection of valid and dependable data, which is critical for farmers and researchers alike.

DeGrand's work in sensor research further optimized each component of Mesonet's equipment—from the network's first precipitation-weighing rain gauge to the data logger and electrical enclosure. His development of best management practices for tower and equipment installation and ongoing site maintenance has set a new standard within the atmospheric sciences community.

Perhaps DeGrand's most innovative contribution is the homemade winching system, a testament to his ingenuity. This system allows SCOO personnel to safely and efficiently raise and lower the Mesonet's 10-meter instrument towers for maintenance, all from ground level. The system's collapsible design ensures it can be transported and utilized at all weather station locations across Ohio, vastly improving safety and operational efficiency.

Degrand was nominated by Jason Cervenec, the Education and Engagement Director at Byrd Center, and Geddy Davis, the Climate Services Coordinator. His work has ensured that the state of Ohio remains at the forefront of weather research and technology.

The Henry Brecher Technical Achievement Award, bestowed by the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, celebrates the significant contributions of Henry Heinz Brecher. Since joining The Ohio State University in 1962 and serving over 25 years, Henry's expertise in photogrammetry has greatly enhanced glacier and ice sheet research. Although he retired in 1989, Henty remained actively involved with the Byrd Center's Ice Core Paleoclimatology Group until his passing in July 2024. This award honors Byrd Center members—faculty, staff, or students—who demonstrate exceptional technical achievements, reflecting Henry's dedication. Nominations are made by advisers or supervisors for those with at least one year of significant project involvement at the Center.

Learn more about the Henry Brecher Technical Achievement Award.