The Critical Zone Collaborative Network (CZNet) is the next phase of NSF’s Critical Zone research program, comprised of nine Thematic Cluster study areas with a wide range of geological, climatic, and land use settings that provide an opportunity to better understand the evolution and function of the critical zone.
CZNET AT #AGU2023
Here from AGU?
CZNet has a large presence at AGU. Here is a compilation of all of all posters and talks that are being presented by members of various CZNet Clusters! Read more about our organization below.
The CZNet builds upon the outcomes of the Critical Zone Observatories (CZO) to address significant interdisciplinary scientific questions at the regional and national scale, and develop predictive models of complex CZ phenomena.
The nine Thematic Clusters represent an array of CZ locations selected on the basis of a unifying scientific theme. Each Cluster has several geographic locations encompassing multiple of watersheds that facilitate investigations of environmental gradients relevant to the Cluster research theme. CZNet showcases convergent science and multidisciplinary teams.
The CZ Coordinating Hub manages the standardization, archival, and access of the data generated by the Clusters, convenes regular meetings of the Thematic Clusters, and plans for future research infrastructure needs of the network. The Hub supports national outreach activities and organizes workshops that engage the larger CZ community. These activities enhance scientific progress within the domains of CZ research and encourage the participation of a broad range of scientists from various disciplines, at different career stages, and from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the sciences.
To see the locations of the old CZOs and current Cluster sites, view the interactive map below! To view the map in a new tab, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Critical Zone Collaborative Network build upon the science discoveries of the CZOs but aim to cast a wider net in exploring Critical-Zone processes in a coordinated manner. Communication among the Thematic Clusters and Coordinating Hub aligns the research and management programs in a functioning network from the beginning of the projects.
CZO sites are based upon intensive monitoring of a single watershed. Thematic Clusters were created through collaborative proposals that explore specific Critical-Zone research themes across a variety of locations that typically involve multiple watersheds with various environmental characteristics.
The legacy Critical Zone Observatories (CZO) website has been archived and can be accessed at www.czo-archive.criticalzone.org.
Yes. Thematic Clusters are research collaborations pursuing science investigations that make use of a network of monitoring stations at various physical locations. This requires a team approach to effectively manage the operation and research of the Cluster.
Clusters address a variety of CZ science themes and have a management plan that provide for frequent exchanges of information with the other Thematic Clusters and with the Coordinating Hub.
Please contact cznet@cuahsi.org with general questions about the CZNet.
Cluster specific contacts can be found on each Cluster's 'Contact' page.