Publication Date:
2024-01-26
Description:
The Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW), in the context of the framework of the World Meteorological
Organization (WMO), published the Measurement of Cryospheric Variables, Volume II of the Guide
to Instruments and Methods of Observation in 2018, in which best practice for observations of
snow parameters was included. As a follow-up effort, measurement best practices for the other
cryosphere components are under development, including permafrost and seasonally frozen
ground. The measurement best practice for permafrost aims to define reference methods for
the configuration and ongoing operation of stations for in situ observations in high mountains
and polar regions. It will: address gaps in the existing permafrost monitoring systems, define
methods for improving traceability and comparability, recommend instrumental characteristics and
provide measurements uncertainty evaluation. A further objective is to support capacity building
of countries in terms of developing a permafrost observation network. A Task Team within the
framework of GCW was established, to lead the development and publication of a complete guide
to the measurements of permafrost variables. The documents in preparation will be coordinated
with the ongoing revision of Products and Requirements of the Global Climate Observing System
(GCOS) Permafrost Essential Climate Variable (ECV), including existing variables measured by the
GTN-P (Global Terrestrial Network for Permafrost). Further, the needs of developing Essential Arctic
Variables (EAV) and Shared Arctic Variables (SAV) identified at the Arctic Observing Summit (AOS)
are considered. The work will be based on existing methodologies, promoting and recommending
methods to improve data reliability and traceability, also for the implementation of new stations.
Repository Name:
EPIC Alfred Wegener Institut
Type:
Conference
,
NonPeerReviewed
Format:
application/pdf
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