Locating machine-readable ecological data

Conference · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1984

OSTI ID:6199828

Olson, R J; Kanciruk, P

Increasing numbers of machine-readable ecological and environmental data files are becoming available from federal agencies specifically for public dissemination. Many agencies or projects with specific thematic orientations compile descriptions of databases, but usually do not maintain the actual data. These directories provide enough information to determine which data files have a high probability of fulfilling a user's need and include an individual's name to contact for obtaining more information (or the actual data file). This paper describes directories and clearinhouses that assist users in locating and acquiring data files. Twenty-four directory/clearinghouse activities maintained by federal agencies are described and grouped into five classes: (I) clearinghouse not dealing with actual data files, (II) data repositories containing data files, (III) data centers with data and some data evaluation, (IV) data analysis centers with extensive data evaluation, and (V) integrated database systems with evaluation, standardization, and integration. Published inventories of machine-readable data are reviewed. The Acid Depostion Data Network, developed at Oak Ridge National Laboraotry by the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program, is described as a project using data directories and as an example of an integrated database system that provides evaluated, standardized, and integrated information on acid-deposition related data. 17 refs., 5 tabs.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-84OR21400
• OSTI ID: 6199828
• Report Number(s): CONF-8411244-1; ON: DE86002183
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

500200* -- Environment
Atmospheric-- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport-- (-1989)
510100 -- Environment
Terrestrial-- Basic Studies-- (-1989)
520100 -- Environment
Aquatic-- Basic Studies-- (-1989)
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
ACID RAIN
ATMOSPHERIC PRECIPITATIONS
ECOLOGY
ENVIRONMENT
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
INVENTORIES
NAPAP
RAIN