[en] A program called METER (Meteorological Effects of Thermal Energy Releases) to investigate the atmospheric effects of the heat and moisture releases from large cooling towers and ponds, is reviewed. Results are reported from a precipitation modification study around the Plant Bowen (fossil-fuel power plant) in northwest Georgia which utilizes four natural-draft cooling towers. The study is composed of two parts: the statistical analysis of historic National Weather Service climatological data from the general area of the plant, and a field study involving, primarily, a high-density recording rain-gage network. Both parts are aimed toward obtaining quantitative estimates of potential plant-induced precipitation augmentation and storm pattern disruption