1. GT-NET Benefits Designation as a ‘participating network’ Enhanced collaboration Policy dimension Synergy Resources Visibility Improved data analysis Etc.

2. Designation as a ‘participating network’ GT-NET Benefits Demonstrates a commitment to continuing observations at the site(s) and a focus for coordinated, multidisciplinary measurements and programs. Enhanced collaboration Opportunities for coordinated observations and scientific collaboration. Learn from the experience of other networks - scientifically, operationally, managerially.

3. Policy dimension GT-NET Benefits Links to international environmental conventions (e.g. biodiversity, climate change, desertification, toxic chemicals). Synergy A structured access to data from similar networks. A network’s data is used by others.

4. Resources GT-NET Benefits Supplemental funding will be sought for special projects to meet user needs, to fill gaps in observations, and to strengthen capacity. Visibility Nationally, regionally and internationally, potential users of terrestrial data and information will recognize the value of having access to products that meet their needs. Improved data analysis Access to comparative data from a wider range of sites will improve the interpretation of data from an individual site.

5. Experience in making products useful at the global, regional and local levels. Easier access to satellite observations. Acquiring and transferring knowledge about new methods and findings. More opportunities for students and young professionals. GT-NET Benefits Testing of new measurement methods.

6. GT-Net : Membership criteria 1. Technical experience and maturity Members must have experience in making observations having a high degree of confidence as well as measurements which are newer or experimental but may be the standard of tomorrow. 2. International dimension An explicit interest in international collaboration. It should include responsible individuals who are committed to this orientation.

7. 3. Active data gathering Collection, archiving and distribution of environmental data. 4. Common interests Focus on activities directly relevant to at least one of the five GTOS priority areas. GT-Net : Membership criteria Shared goals and technical interests among the participating networks (functional complementarity).

8. 5. Extent of a real a real coverage coverage Either individual or collective coverage of a significant portion of a geographic region(s). 6. Adequate coverage An important GTOS goal is to identify gaps in coverage (data and area) and design strategies for filling them. 7. Expectation of continuity A reasonable expectation of continuity. GT-Net : Membership criteria