Long-term ecosystem monitoring and research at LTER Zöbelboden - 20 year anniversary

摘要: The long-term monitoring and research site “LTER Zobelboden” has been used for two decades to record trends in several hundreds of environmental parameters. montane 90 hectares size the Northern Limestone Alps become best examined karst forest ecosystem Austria. Based on measurements from Zobelboden, effects air pollution consequences climate change ecosystems are analysed. Findings show that excessive nitrogen deposition disrupts ecological balance leading a loss biodiversity putting their protective function at risk. More frequent disturbances by windthrow bark beetle infestation as consequence likely reduce carbon sink stands. Even though lead cadmium decreased 70 – 80 % due emission abatement measures 1990s, heavy metal is still an problem today. As transport or leaching metals into deeper soil layers happens much more quickly than assumed, high inputs 1980s may pollute groundwater, water finally our drinking after only few decades. Half Austrian population supplied with areas. results karsthydrological measurement modelling Zobelboden allow estimations changes quality supply, thus enabling scientists supplie rs develop adaptation strategies. Long-term data collected combination projects models, provide ideal basis interdisciplinary development perspectives solutions variety problems national well international level. LTER one 35 sites network “LTER-Austria” therefore also part “LTER-Europe”, which involves 400 sites, 100 institutions thousands within 21 networks.