The book endorses the National Science Foundation's concept of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) for providing a nationwide network of facilities and infrastructure for ecological and environmental research that is impossible with existing infrastructure. The committee identified six grand challenges in environmental biology - biodiversity, biogeochemical cycles, climate change, ecology and evolution of infectious diseases, invasive species and land and habitat use—that deserves high priority for research and needs to be addressed on a regional or continental scale. However, the book says that NEON needs a refined focus and a more detailed plan for its implementation to ensure the maximization of its contribution to science and to better fit within the purview of Major Research Equipment and Facilities Construction funding.
Table of Contents


Front Matter
Executive Summary
1. The National Ecological Observatory Network
2. Environmental Issues of National Importance and the Role of the National Ecological Observatory Network
3. Concept and Implementation of the National Ecological Observatory Network
4. Effect of the National Ecological Observatory Network on the Scientific Community, Education, and Public Outreach
5. A Synthesis of Early Concepts of the National Ecological Observatory Network and a New Vision
6. Findings and Recommendations
References
Appendix A: Committee on the National Ecological Observatory Network Biographical Sketches
Appendix B: National Research Council Workshop on the National Ecological Observatory Network Agenda
Appendix C: Federal Agencies and Professional Societies the Voiced Their Support for the National Ecological Observatory Network Through the National Research Council Workshop and Web Forum
Images and Figures