A multiscale dataset for understanding complex eco-hydrological processes in a heterogeneous oasis system.

Area of Science:

• Eco-hydrology
• Remote Sensing
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Upscaling eco-hydrological processes on heterogeneous surfaces presents a significant scientific challenge.
• Limited availability of multiscale observational data hinders progress in this field.
• The Heihe Watershed Allied Telemetry Experimental Research (HiWATER) was established to address this data gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a comprehensive multiscale dataset for studying eco-hydrological processes.
• To provide data for developing and validating methods for upscaling environmental variables.
• To support research in heterogeneous oasis-desert ecosystems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a hierarchical observation system with nested scales.
• Deployed eddy covariance towers, large aperture scintillometers, and meteorological stations for flux measurements.
• Integrated eco-hydrological sensors (soil moisture, leaf area index) and advanced airborne remote sensing (LiDAR, imaging spectrometer, thermal imager, radiometer).
• Conducted synchronized ground measurements of vegetation dynamics and photosynthesis.

Main Results:

• Generated a high-quality, multiscale, and multidisciplinary dataset from the HiWATER experiment.
• Ensured data integrity through rigorous quality control from calibration to processing.
• Made the complete dataset freely available to the scientific community.

Conclusions:

• The HiWATER dataset is essential for advancing the understanding of multiscale eco-hydrological processes.
• The data will facilitate the development and improvement of upscaling methodologies.
• This resource supports research in arid and semi-arid environments with heterogeneous land cover.