Design, implementation and performance of an ecosystem monitoring program in biosphere reserves
Vera Luthardt, Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (DE)
Since 1999 a monitoring program within three Biosphere Reserves in Brandenburg, Germany, is being performed. The design aimed at the main ecosystems, and includes water, soil, flora and fauna. The value of this long term observation is demonstrated by examples of agricultural systems in relation to nature conservation, ecological potentials of low-input land use, and the assessment of stealthy processes, like the elevation of groundwater tables.