Long-term flux observation network development in South Africa – national platforms to support environmental research and evidence-based decision making 

Abstract

South Africa is developing a network of flux observations to support studies on coupled ecological and social systems. Currently, eight flux measurement sites are operated by the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Data from these observations are openly available online in near real-time, following standardised quality control and FAIR data principles. Each of the flux observations forms part of a landscape-scale research infrastructure (RI) co-designed with researchers, land managers and policy stakeholders to ensure long-term relevance for both science and decision making. Landscape RI sites include suites of standard continuous meteorological, hydrological, and repeated manual measurements covering biodiversity, productivity, ecosystem condition, and ecosystem service provision and use. These landscapes encompass a diverse suite of biomes across South Africa, including arid shrubland, subtropical savanna, tropical grassland, high-altitude mesic grassland, Afromontane forests, and fynbos, with a range of land-use types and tenure systems represented. These long-term research infrastructure platforms have been utilised in numerous national and international projects supporting scientific development and informed societal decision-making. This presentation will focus on infrastructure co-design and development with broad stakeholder groups and showcase results highlighting activities in the RI, outputs, lessons learned, and future priorities