Review of the WATERS Network Science Plan (2010) / Chapter Skim
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3 Observational Networks
3 Observational Networks
Pages 28-37
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From page 28... ...
Furthermore, to facilitate intersite comparisons, networks need to be based on a common conceptual framework, driven by an encompassing set of conceptual models and hypotheses, so that commonalities in information can be distinguished from information unique to a particular environment. Networks generally consist of one of two types: (1)
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From page 29... ...
Geological Survey. The operation of this network requires extensive training of field technicians to use uniform protocols and computation techniques to measure stream velocities and cross-sectional areas under conditions that range from partially frozen rivers in Minnesota to the slow-flowing bayous of Louisiana.
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From page 30... ...
Furthermore, the natural environments interact in complex ways with different human systems defined by factors such as land use, urbanization, water user types, community organizations, and the institutional structure that governs their use of water. The Science Plan justifies the need for the WATERS Network in part because of the expected need for rapid policy changes affecting the wide variety of human and natural environments across the country (and the world)
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From page 31... ...
identifying the common bases that facilitate intersite comparisons; (2) matching methodologies with the science questions and developing common protocols; and (3)
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From page 32... ...
Matching Methodologies with the Science Questions and Developing Common Protocols Once representative areas have been identified, a second major challenge is to match the monitoring and experimental methodologies with the science questions and to develop common protocols capable of generating uniform information across a diversity of environments. The many possibilities unique to the particular environment of each observa
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From page 33... ...
Negotiating common protocols in diverse areas is again necessary for uniform information but may be particularly difficult with local groups and regulatory authorities, which face a diversity of challenges, including many that are unrelated to the network's focal questions. In general, research involving human subjects will require a networkwide institutional review board to develop appropriate protocols capable of addressing national as well as local concerns involving human subjects.
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From page 34... ...
Planning the management structure that is capable of addressing these issues will be an important part of the design phase. EVALUATION OF THE WATERS NETWORK SCIENCE PLAN AGAINST CRITERIA FOR NETWORKS The WATERS Science Plan recognizes the need for a network of observatories in representative areas using common protocols, as well as the need for effective management and operation of them.
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From page 35... ...
Potential climate change is one factor, not included in the list above, that would be particularly relevant to the WATERS Network science questions. FIGURE 3-1 Human-impacted water environment classes in the continental United States, based on land slope, bedrock permeability, soil permeability, air temperature, precipitation, land cover, population density, and water use.
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From page 36... ...
The WATERS Science Plan recognizes the strengths and usefulness of a network of observatories for addressing water issues that relate to the nation as a whole. However, the Science Plan does not clearly articulate specific questions that require a national network.
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From page 37... ...
With respect to common bases, the Science Plan recognizes that the WATERS observatories need to be selected on the basis of a map uniquely designed for the WATERS program. The factors used to construct the present HIWEC map in the Science Plan may not be the most appropriate.
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