Station Metadata Implementation

[Patowhiz]

Overview

I propose the adoption of a station metadata model inspired by the OSCAR/Surface observations metadata framework. This model will categorize station metadata into eight essential categories, facilitating comprehensive and structured data representation that aligns with global standards.

Proposed Structure

The station metadata will be organized into the following categories:

1. Observation Processing Method: Determines how observations are processed at the station, categorized as Manual, Automatic, or Hybrid.
2. Observation Environment: Specifies the monitoring environment type, including various settings like Air (fixed/mobile), Lake/River (fixed/mobile), Land (fixed/mobile/on ice), Sea (fixed/mobile/on ice), and Underwater (fixed/mobile).
3. Observation Focus: Identifies the station's primary observation purpose, with options ranging from Agricultural to Space Weather stations.
4. Drainage Basin: Indicates the geographical drainage area associated with the station.
5. Climate Zone: Classifies the station's location according to the Köppen climate classification.
6. Administration Unit: Defines the local governance entity the station falls under.
7. Organisation: Identifies the owning organization of the station.
8. Network Affiliation: Specifies the network(s) with which the station shares data.

Rationale

Adopting a structured and standardized approach to station metadata ensures consistency, facilitates data integration and interoperability, and aligns with international standards for meteorological and hydrological data processing and sharing.

Expected Benefits

Implementing this model will enhance data quality, improve metadata management, and support more accurate and reliable climate and hydrological analyses. It will also promote collaboration and data sharing across different meteorological and hydrological networks.

Implementation Considerations

• Authorisation Handling: Data access will be primarily controlled at the station level, considering factors like climate zone, drainage basin, administrative unit, organisation, and network affiliation .
• Spatial Handling: The station's location will be crucial for spatial quality control and analyses.
• Elevation Handling: The default elevation value used for observations will be the station's elevation above sea level, unless specified otherwise during data ingestion.

Request for Comments

I invite feedback on this proposed metadata structure to ensure it meets the users needs and aligns with global best practices. Your insights and suggestions will be invaluable in refining and implementing this model effectively.