Towards an Ecohydrometeorological Monitoring System for Chile: A Scientific-Technical Proposal

Abstract

Chile, with its broad ecological and geographical diversity, faces environmental challenges that demand an integrated understanding of its ecosystems. We proposed a research approach in which catchments, as the main unit of study, were complemented by observations at different spatial scales (from individuals, plots to catchments). This model was inspired by successful international experiences that demonstrated the relevance of long-term studies and representative sites for the sustainable management of natural resources. We observed that existing efforts (public and private) were often isolated, geographically dispersed, and short in duration. In addition, the lack of methodological standardization and shared databases hindered the scientific and informative use of the information. While there were monitoring site networks in some ecosystems, these operated in a poorly coordinated manner and without a governance center to facilitate their coordination, including the integration of disciplines such as hydrology, ecology, forest sciences, social sciences, and economics—all essential to address complex environmental problems. Given the relevance of climate change in national and global discussions, we proposed a Universal Ecohydrometeorological Monitoring System (SIMUEN). The system was based on hydrometeorological units and was designed with different levels of monitoring (from individuals to catchments), all coordinated under a minimum set of essential variables and standard methodologies. In this way, we sought not only to improve the response to extreme climate events, but also to generate solid scientific foundations for the management and conservation of natural resources, ensuring the well-being of future generations.