Data is an important element in NSERC PermafrostNet research. The network will prototype reliable and useful data and knowledge products for stakeholders and integrate field data with simulation. This will be accomplished through the shared use of network resources including a platform for permafrost data science and simulation. This page provides:
- Links to network-generated data as it becomes available
- Information for network members on how to access computing resources
- Access to the network data policy
- Network guidelines and best-practices for permafrost data management
- Other resources for permafrost data
Access and View Permafrost Data
NSERC PermafrostNet runs an ERDDAP web server from which you can access network data as it becomes available. Some datasets from the Northwest Territories Geological Survey (NTGS) ground temperature reports have also been added as part of the prototyping process. You can query and download data directly from the website in a variety of formats or you can use existing R and python libraries to access the data automatically as part of your analysis workflow! Data on the ERDDAP follows the CF and ACDD standards to promote interoperability with datasets from other scientific disciplines. If you are interested in adding your data to the PermafrostNet ERDDAP server, contact Nick Brown or Michel Paquette.
NSERC PermafrostNet also runs a web portal to view temperature timeseries and borehole data. Currently, it is possible to access data from the Carleton Permafrost Database and the NSERC PermafrostNET ERDDAP server. If you are interested in connecting your own data collection email Nick Brown.
Permafrost Data Science Platform (PDSP)
The PDSP provides computing resources and storage to NSERC PermafrostNet HQP and other staff at academic institutions that explicitly contribute to the milestones outlined for network projects. To get more information and to request access to the computing resources, request access to the Wiki page here (you must be logged into GitLab).
NSERC PermafrostNet Code Repository
NSERC PermafrostNet has a Gitlab group. If you are a student within NSERC PermafrostNet, this is a space to collaborate and share your code with others. Once you are logged into Gitlab, you can request access.
Ground Temperature Data Cleaning
A testing version of the ground temperature cleaning tool tempcf is available from the PermafrostNet GitLab or from Google Drive. This tool does not require any programming knowledge, but is currently only built for windows. Those using other operating systems, or wanting to get the latest release can run the code from the source at the PermafrostNet GitLab.
NSERC PermafrostNet Data Policy
The PermafrostNet data policy was developed based on community consultation at the 2019 PermafrostNet AGM and the 2020 data workshop. It describes a vision for permafrost data in Canada, and provides guidelines for how network-generated data and code should be handled to achieve this vision.
The data policy is being migrated to the NSERC PermafrostNet Gitlab. This will make it easier for members of the network community to discuss and adapt the policy throughout the lifespan of the network, and it will provide a traceable history of changes and the rationale behind those changes.
Guidelines and standards for permafrost data
Using standards for your permafrost data when sharing or publishing it is one of the ways to make your data more discoverable and reusable by others. Access the Permafrost Data Standard Recommendations here.
NSERC PermafrostNet also supports the NTGS ground temperature CSV template and provides a file validator to check files before submitting to the NTGS.
The NSERC PermafrostNet Data Publication Handbook
This guide describes the steps and considerations for publishing permafrost data in a way that is open, and interoperable. It provides specific guidelines to publish permafrost data within the NSERC PermafrostNet program, with information on file formats, standards, and links to other resources. It also provides general data publication recommendations relevant to researchers wishing to publish permafrost data.
