Regional Networks of Biological Field Stations to Study Climate Change

Abstract

Abstract Field stations are platforms for documenting patterns and processes in ecosystems and are critical for understanding how anthropogenic climate change reshapes nature. Although networks of field stations have been used to identify patterns at continental to global scales, these broad, sparsely distributed networks miss variation in climate change at local and regional scales. We propose that regional-scale research networks are essential for addressing the myriad of ecological and evolutionary challenges—including management and mitigation options—that cannot be answered by more broadly distributed networks or by individual field sites. We discuss our experiences leveraging natural areas throughout California at the Institute for the Study of Ecological and Evolutionary Climate Impacts. We then explore benefits and challenges of networking research at spatial scales congruent with regional patterns of climate variation and climate change, the challenges of sustained infrastructure and research support, and opportunities for future regional-scale research networks.