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The Long Term Ecological Monitoring observatories Network (ROSELT/OSS): Contribution to the implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
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2004
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In the framework of the implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, particularly in Africa, Sahara and Sahel Observatory proposed, in 1992, to set up of a Long Term Ecological Monitoring Observatories Network (ROSELT/OSS) in order to better assess and monitor desertification phenomenon in the semi-arid and arid regions of the circum-saharan belt. The main aim of the ROSELT/OSS programme is to improve the knowledge on the mechanisms, causes, consequences and scope of desertification, the long-term evolution of ecological systems and the interactive functioning of ecological and socio-economic systems. An observatory is a functional land area, a combination of scientific, human and material resources, an organised system for data collection and processing systems and a response to decision-support products needs. Based on the choice and the selection by an ad hoc Scientific Committee, 25 observatories or clusters of observatories, distributed over 11 countries, were established. Amongst them, 12 were selected as pilot - observatories, in order to serve, within a first phase, as a basis for refining the concept and finalising the data collection and processing techniques and methodologies and to produce, at lower cost, reliable, relevant and replicable tools for assistance in decision making (maps, indicators, information systems...). The ROSELT/OSS network provides also a platform form research actions focusing on themes such as biodiversity, climate, ecosystems functioning, etc. At present, the ROSELT/OSS programme is in full operational phase and numerous tools and products are available to help decision making.