Track: B2. Harnessing Ecosystems & Biodiversity for Climate Resilience

Background/Objectives

Understanding and predicting how U.S. ecosystems will react to climate change is the key mission of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), a continental-scale observatory operated by Battelle and funded by the National Science Foundation. NEON is uniquely designed to collect long-term, standardized, free and open ecological data and samples for use in research and education.

Approach/Activities

As a continental-scale observatory, NEON infrastructure is not only designed to withstand ecosystem and environmental change but is also strategically positioned to be a test bed for climate solutions and innovation. The NEON Assignable Assets program has supported projects on precision agriculture, wildfires, arctic change, and drone technology, among others. NEON data position the community to innovate for climate resilience, e.g., in response to natural disasters, land use change, and management. NEON brings its 200+ committed partners to leverage these resources for research, training, data generation, and societal impact.

Results/Lessons Learned

NEON data and samples have been used in over 1,000 publications researching the effects of wildfire, drought, hurricanes, and more. The Assignable Assets program continues rapid growth as a key facet of the observatory for innovators and researchers in climate resilience. NEON presents solutions for climate resilience both at a continental scale and a long-term scale.