RCN - USA National Phenology Network

University Of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee WI

Investigators

Abstract

Phenology is the study of periodic plant and animal life cycle events (leafing and flowering, insect emergence, and bird, fish, and mammal migration), and how these are influenced by environmental factors, especially seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. Though a far-reaching component of environmental science, phenology is poorly understood. Important questions include how the environment affects phenology, how phenology affects the abundance, diversity, and interactions of plants and animals, and how phenology affects flows of water, energy, and chemical elements. With sufficient observations and understanding, phenology can be used to predict important processes at local to national levels, and could drive a variety of scientific and practical applications. However, the predictive potential of phenological data requires a new data resource - a national network of integrated phenological observations and the tools to access/analyze them. A national network is essential to detect and to evaluate ongoing environmental changes, and can now capitalize on integration with other observation networks, satellite data products, emerging technologies, data management capabilities, formal and informal educational opportunities, and a new readiness of the public to participate in investigations of natural systems on a national scale. Broader Impacts. The USA National Phenology Network (NPN) represents a unique opportunity to increase collaboration between federal agencies and the academic community, to facilitate and recruit public participation in the study and understanding of Nature, and to serve public needs in Agriculture, Commerce, Education, Health, Recreation, and Natural Resources. The USA-NPN will actively support student/early researcher exchange/training programs among participating organizations, as well as participation by students, citizens, and scientists from under-represented communities in all network activities. The USA-NPN is committed to substantial participation from members of the public as citizen-scientist phenological observers. The network will enhance this opportunity by developing additional features for the USA-NPN Web page that will promote science education and foster better understanding of complex environmental issues.