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National Backbone
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The National Backbone is the suite of operational observing system elements that support the following functions:
- Monitor core variable in the nation's Exclusive Ecomonic Zone (EEZ) and Great Lakes using both remote sensing and in situ measurements
- Make in situ measurements at a sparse network of sentinel sites using federally approved modules
- Transmit DMAC-compliant data on core variables to national data assembly centers continuously, routinely and reliably (real-time or delayed mode as needed); and
- Link larger scale changes occuring in the oceans and on land to changes occuring within the regions
Core variables monitored by the National Backbone are as follows:
- Salinity
- Temperature
- Sea level
- Surface waves
- Surface currents
- Heat flux
- Bathymetry and bottom character (e.g. benthic habitats)
- Sea ice
- Dissolved nutrients (N, P, Si)
- Dissolved oxygen
- Chemical contaminants
- Fish species and abundance
- Zooplankton species and abundance
- Phytoplankton species and abundance
- Optical properties
- Waterborne pathogens
Last update: 15 May 2006 - 7:40am