Enabling cross-site and multi-network research through community services

Abstract:

Design and execution of large-scale field experimentation and networking multiple field sites requires sharing data and supporting teams of scientists. The CUAHSI Water Data Center (WDC) is designed to fulfill the first need. Indeed, the technology employed by the WDC would enable the same data system to be viewed as part of mutliple networks, thus overcoming the traditional "stove-piping" of field sites by funding source and will support the kind of cross-network, multi-scale analyses needed for scientific advancement. Additional data compilations, such as a catalog of field sites, is also being considered, but incentives to participate in such efforts need to exist to make them successful.

The WDC has initially focused on supporting time series data and has recently introduced support for publishing spatial data coverages. These services, although necessary, are recognized to be insufficient for these studies. We are examining additional services to facilitate scientific collaboration, including both remote collaboration and in-person meetings to support self-forming working groups. Community input on the nature of these services is required.