LTER Data

Several interactive database prototypes demonstrate the range of functionality of the Network Information System LTER Network Information System

Data collected at LTER sites are accessible to anyone through an extensive network of site-based servers. Standardization of methods and equipment across the network has now improved the development of comparable data sets among sites. To increase the use and accessibility of these data sets, the LTER data and information managers are developing an integrated Network Information System. This system seeks to seamlessly integrate data exchange and facilitate data analysis and synthesis to meet the needs of ecologists worldwide. The latest developments take advantage of advances in World Wide Web database interfaces, providing integrated access to LTER network-wide data sets via a single point of entry.

Several interactive database prototypes demonstrate the range of functionality of the Network Information System. These include the climate database, data catalogue, personnel database, site description database and bibliography. These early prototypes will help to define a framework for interoperation of the LTER site information systems. This framework will assure the longevity of the system by making it extensible as future modules and sites are added and interoperable as the system can easily be made to operate within a broader context of research programs.