Information Management

Last updated: 02/07/2006

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Information Management Team
3. Infrastructure
4. Jornada Information Management System
5. Geographic Information System
6. GIS Web Access
7. Data Management
8. Jornada Basin LTER Web Site
9. Jornada Basin LTER Policies
10. Restricted Access Datasets
11. EML Metadata
12. Documentation and Periodic Review
13. LTER Network and Community Activities
14. Short-term and Long-term Goals

List of Figures

IM.1 Jornada Information Management System overview
IM.2 Data management process

Note: Sections highlighted in yellow above are not contained within the
Jornada Basin LTER: LTER V Renewal Proposal document.


1. Introduction (Top)
The Jornada Information Management System (JIMS) comprises three major components: the formal data management protocols, the acquisition and management of spatial data, and the provision of networking and computing services. JIMS is a multi-organization information management system that contains data and metadata holdings and ancillary information from the Jornada Basin LTER (JRN) and the USDA ARS Jornada Experimental Range (JER).

2. Information Management Team (Top)
The Jornada information management team is comprised of full and part-time personnel funded by both the JRN and JER who collaborate in providing information management support to both organizations. JRN and JER jointly fund Barbara Nolen’s position (GIS administrator). JRN funds the following positions: Ken Ramsey (data and computer systems manager), John Anderson (Jornada site manager), Marc Bourdon (1 year hire, GIS specialist), and Justin Jensen (student programmer). JER funds the following positions: Valerie LaPlante (data management, multimedia development, desktop support) and Jim Lenz (network, systems, and desktop support). In addition, JRN and JER employ part-time students to perform data entry for each organization.

3. Infrastructure (Top)
The JRN site offices and laboratory located on the campus of NMSU are connected to a local area network (LAN) through a firewall to the NMSU network (Gigabit Ethernet). All JRN computers are connected to the LAN using Fast Ethernet (100 MB) and all servers are connected using Gigabit Ethernet (1000 MB). The JER Ranch headquarters (http://usda-ars.nmsu.edu/) is connected directly to the LAN (inside firewall) using a T1 (1.54 MB) connection.

The Jornada servers are jointly funded by the JER and JRN. The system is comprised of more than 12 servers running a variety of operating systems and applications. Operating systems include Netware, Windows, Linux, and Solaris. Network services include the file, database, email, FTP, web, CVS (source code repository), Internet map, and web applications. To gain access to network services other than FTP, WWW, POP3, SMTP, and IMAP requires authentication and encryption using VPN client software if not directly connected to the local area network.



Figure IM.1


4. Jornada Information Management System (Top)
The Jornada Information Management System (JIMS) automates much of the original, manual information management system (IMS, see Data Management section below). The IMS is integrated with the Geographic Information System (GIS) and is comprised of a relational database management system and metadata repository, as well as applications and services to support discovery, access, and management of information stored in the IMS (see Figure IM.1). The current metadata repository consists of available Ecological Metadata Language (EML) documents stored and available on the JRN website (see EML Metadata section below). Available Jornada EML metadata can be searched at the LTER Network Office (LNO) Metacat server at http://metacat.lternet.edu or accessed directly from the JRN data catalog at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/datacat.php. See our website for a listing of short-term and long-term information management goals at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/imgoals.php.

5. Geographic Information System (Top)
The Jornada geodatabase is the repository for GIS vector data layers that have a sub-meter accuracy GPS source and are used for base map information and ranch management (i.e. boundaries, fences, rain gauges, roads, tanks, wells). Layers produced by field mapping and historic data rescue (i.e. current and historic geology, geomorphology, herbicide treatments, soils, vegetation) are also stored within the geodatabase. The geodatabase allows GIS data and associated metadata to be discovered and accessed by researchers and information management personnel. Research site locations are maintained in the geodatabase and are linked to research data in the information management system for spatial analysis. The geodatabase is also the repository for GIS raster data layers such as aerial photography, terrain, and satellite imagery.
Jornada researchers have direct access to the geodatabase using ESRI ArcGIS or ArcView software. GIS data and metadata can also be accessed by the public via the Map Server, http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/maps/JRN_Map.

6. GIS Web Access (Top)
The Jornada Map Server serves interactive maps over the internet for the JER, JRN and the NMSU Chihuahuan Desert Rangeland Research Center. The maps use the Jornada Basin Geodatabase as the source for GIS data layers. We have a GIS data catalog page that allows users to access and download GIS data and associated metadata for fences, exclosures, dirt tanks, wells, vegetation, soils, geomorphology, digital elevation model, satellite imagery, and aerial photography. The GIS metadata is made available on this page in ESRI XML (and EML formats in the near future). The GIS data catalog can be accessed at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/gis/giscat.php and contains a categorized listing of GIS and remote sensing holdings with links to downloads (as metadata is completed). GIS and remote sensing data are currently available by request from Barbara Nolen (GIS administrator). The Jornada Basin Map Gallery allows online viewing of maps produced by the Jornada Basin Spatial Data Laboratory with downloadable PDF files of the maps. The map gallery is available at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/galleries/mapgallery.php.


Figure IM.2


7. Data Management (Top)
The purpose of data management for the JRN is to provide protocols and services for data collection, verification, organization, archive, and distribution. Procedures are conducted in accordance with recommendations and guidelines developed by the LTER Information Managers Committee. Data access, acknowledgement, and data management policies are located at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/jrndmpol.php.

Data managers are involved with researchers from the initial stages of sampling design and data collection, through the data entry and verification phase, to the archiving and distribution of the data (see Figure IM.2). This encourages maximum interaction between researchers and data management personnel to avoid confusion and potential loss of data. Site and Data Manager involvement begins during the Project Design phase with the completion of the Jornada Notification of Research form by the researcher prior to the start of work; this alerts both Site and Data Manager to the new study and potential LTER data sets. Upon initiation of a new study, the researcher completes Project Documentation that provides the second level of “metadata” documentation. Research related forms are at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/site/dm/readme.php.

In the Data Collection phase, the data manager helps researchers design field and laboratory data sheets that facilitate data entry and analysis. Prior to JIMS data entry the investigator completes Data Set Documentation to provide the metadata that fully describe the data set. Both Project and Data set documentation are provided with the data set when it is requested or obtained from our Web site. JIMS data entry programs error-check and verify data as they are entered. Computer files are subjected to further verification by graphing and/or error-checking programs, and/or examination by field investigators. Final quality assurance of the data rests with the investigator who submits data for inclusion in the Data Management System. Direct communication with the Site Manager, John Anderson, or through a collaborating JRN P.I., is used to encourage the timely submission of documentation and of data by researchers.

Error-checked data files are stored with associated documentation files on the file server. Archived data files are maintained in ASCII format on 30-yr magneto-optical (MO) disks, portable hard drives, CD-R media, and DVD media to guard against loss of data access that can result from changing technology. This may also include proprietary binary format files to facilitate recovery of working versions. Image data are archived on 8mm tape. Routine tape data backups of the file server are done daily, weekly, and monthly. One set of off-site copies are maintained elsewhere on the NMSU campus of routine backup tapes, MO disks, CD disks, and DVD disks with a second set of MO, CD and DVD disks maintained off-campus in case of a catastrophe on campus.

Online availability of our LTER data is through our website, which includes a catalog of Jornada data sets (http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/datacat.php). A listing of long-term datasets is available at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/longtermdatasets.php. Policy statements regarding submission of data, data access, and data acknowledgment may be found on our web page, http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/jrndmpol.php. Data are routinely updated online, typically within one day of JIMS receiving updated data. Data are either Unrestricted and available online or Restricted with release authority by responsible investigator usually within 2 days of request. Restricted datasets are those in preparation for publication, student research that is protected to allow them the opportunity to publish, ongoing studies less than 2 years old, and long-term studies where a 2 year period provides an insufficient dataset for analyses. A listing of restricted datasets and associated justifications and approvals from the JRN Executive Committee is available at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/restricteddatasets.php.

A plant voucher collection is maintained, catalogued, and databased providing reference material and documentation of Jornada plant species at research sites. A more extensive voucher collection of Jornada Basin species is incorporated within the New Mexico State University Department of Biology Herbarium and New Mexico State University Range Science Herbarium. Both herbaria are actively databasing their collections with INRAM (Institute of Natural Resource Analysis and Management).

8. Jornada Basin LTER Web Site (Top)
The JRN website follows design guidelines proposed by the LTER Information Management Committee. The website has been updated with new features and functionality including a new menu system and PHP template that provide a consistent user interface. The full menu is displayed for browsers that do not support JavaScript. The searchable JRN bibliography can be accessed at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/ris/. In addition, hard copies of publications are available for checkout from the LTER Site Manager. See GIS Web Access above for description of web interfaces for GIS holdings. Web galleries make thematically grouped posters, presentation, and static maps available for download. The Jornada Basin LTER Schoolyard web site, Schoolyard Desert Discovery Project, can be accessed at http://www.cdnp.org/sdd_home.htm. See http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/imgoals.php for short- and long-term website development goals.

9. Jornada Basin LTER Policies (Top)
Jornada Basin LTER information management policies can be accessed on our website (http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/jrndmpol.php) and are compliant with the LTER Data Access Policy (http://www.lternet.edu/data/netpolicy.html). The policies are periodically reviewed by the Jornada Basin LTER Information Manager, Site Manager, and Executive Committee. Any changes to the policies are approved by the Jornada Basin LTER Executive Committee (see http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/ims/public/directory.php for current members).

10. Restricted Access Datasets (Top)
Any exceptions to the JRN data access policy must be approved by the Executive Committee. A listing of restricted datasets and associated justifications and approvals from the JRN Executive Committee is available at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/restricteddatasets.php. This list is reviewed annually by the Executive Committee. As of 01/31/2006, 9% (13) of the 147 our research datasets are classified as restricted access.

11. EML Metadata (Top)
All JRN datasets are being documented in the Ecological Metadata Language (EML). EML documents are initially generated at EML compliance level 2. The creation of level 2 EML (discovery) and subsequent creation of level 5 EML (integration) are performed on a priority basis. Long-term datasets are the highest priority candidates for generating EML documentation, with climate being next in priority. After the long-term and climate datasets are completed, the rest of the research datasets will be documented in EML, starting with the oldest datasets. The final effort will be to document all JRN GIS and remote sensing data holdings in EML. All JRN EML documentation are available on the LTER Network Query interface (http://metacat.lternet.edu) or on the JRN data catalog (http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/datacat.php). As of 01/31/2006, (1) 35% of 147 research datasets have associated EML documentation, (2) 50% of our long-term datasets have associated EML documentation, and 1 of the 51 EML documents available are at level 5 EML (integration); (4) with the remaining EML files at level 2 (discovery).

12. Documentation and Periodic Review (Top)
We are currently in the process of documenting the JIMS interfaces, architecture, and data management procedures and protocols to maintain continuity in the event of Jornada information management team member turn over. The JRN information management system is reviewed periodically to ensure it meets the need of site science, information managers, intersite science, policy makers, and the public. This review is done at a minimum of once a year. Both internal and external input and feedback, in the form of site reviews, renewal reports, and informatics partners (primarily JER), are used to enhance the information management system.

13. LTER Network and Community Activities (Top)
Ongoing LTER Network participation includes the databases for Data Table of Contents, All-Site Bibliography, SiteDB (site description), Metacat (EML metadata), and ClimDB (climate data). It also includes representation and participation at the annual Information Managers (IM) Meeting, IM Executive Committee, and LTER site review teams, as well as workshops associated with expanding the capability of the site to acquire, maintain and exchange information readily with other LTER and non-LTER users. Past workshop themes have included Ecological Metadata Language (EML), wireless technology, Canopy Project Databank, web services, ontologies, and Geographic Information Systems.

The Jornada Basin LTER has collaborated with several non-LTER organizations to explore the implementation of new technologies and approaches to enhance the usefulness and accessibility to JRN data, associated metadata, and ancillary information. A collaboration between the San Diego Super Computer Center (SDSC) and LTER Network Office supported a cross-site LTER workshop and SDSC GIS and a web services development workshop which resulted in a collaboration with SDSC to explore the use of web services to provide access to JRN climate data.

Ongoing collaborations with the Evergreen State College Canopy Project (http://canopy.evergreen.edu/) and several LTER sites are exploring the use of Databank (http://canopy.evergreen.edu/research_databank.asp?Id=2), an XML template approach to database structure reuse and development with an intuitive interface and associated analytical tools. The XML templates are associated with 2D and 3D visualization and preliminary analytical tools. When a template is used to create a new research database, the associated visualization and analytical tools are available for the newly created database without further development requirements. This approach to data structure reuse and automated EML metadata documentation will be a useful tool for both scientists and information managers.

The Shortgrass Steppes LTER (http://sgs.cnr.colostate.edu/), Sevilleta LTER (http://sev.lternet.edu/), and Jornada Basin LTER sites have expanded the initial collaboration with the Canopy Project to explore using Databank to perform cross-site analysis of grassland NPP data. The Kruger National Park (South Africa) and the Konza Prairie LTER (http://www.konza.ksu.edu/) have recently joined this cross-site collaboration effort. The collaboration has also moved from a more information management research focus to one of broader scientific interest with a focus on NPP.

Jornada Scientists and information managers are collaborating with the NMSU Bioinformatics Center and the Sapo Island Microbial Observatory (SIMO)/ Georgia Coastal Ecosystem LTER (http://gce-lter.marsci.uga.edu/lter/) to develop a database system to store and access genomic and biochemical information collected by JRN scientists. This system will include interfaces to access and utilize the data and associated metadata that will be stored with the system. The system will be based on the databases and interfaces for the SIMO.

The Jornada Basin LTER and the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park (CDNP) are collaborating to develop and host web sites and tools to support K-12 student ecological research activities and teacher workshops for teachers in southern New Mexico and western Texas public schools. We are initially developing an ecological glossary, Meet the Scientist web site, and the capability for teachers to upload and access data collected by students to a central JRN server. Future activities include developing classroom web pages to highlight achievements and access to the class’s data. The Jornada Basin LTER will develop the databases and web sites and services to support and host the schoolyard activities conducted by CDNP.

14. Short-term and Long-term Goals (Top)
A listing of completed, short-term, and long-term information management goals may be found at http://jornada-www.nmsu.edu/imgoals.php.

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