<p>This dataset comprises a comprehensive archive of soil subsite samples collected from TERN Ecosystem Surveillance monitoring plots across Australia. In addition to the 1-meter soil pit, soil subsite samples are taken from nine locations across the 1-hectare monitoring plot from three depths (0-10cm, 10-20cm and 20-30cm). Each of the nine subsites are selected to represent the variation in micro habitats across the monitoring plot. Collected following the standardised Ecosystem Surveillance methodology, the dataset includes over 33,600 soil subsite samples archived in the TERN Australia Soil and Herbarium Collection, located at the University of Adelaide's Waite Campus.</p> <p>Each record includes detailed metadata such as voucher barcode for soil collected from the three depths at each of the nine subsites, site and visit information and sampling details. Soil subsite samples are accessible and available for loan upon request through the EcoPlots Samples portal via an Expression of Interest.</p>

Dronescape Dataset Description <br></br> Dronescape is a research infrastructure initiative within TERN that integrates uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing techniques into Australia's terrestrial ecosystem monitoring framework. The project addresses critical spatio-temporal gaps between field-based measurements and satellite observations by deploying UAV systems carrying RGB, 10-band multispectral, and LiDAR sensors across TERN's surveillance monitoring plot network. Through standardized protocols and automated processing workflows, Dronescape generates analysis-ready products including orthomosaics, reflectance maps, vegetation indices, and 3D point clouds.<br></br> As of 2025, the project has surveyed over 120 plots across multiple bioregions, with ongoing expansion to additional monitoring sites. Each plot covers approximately 90,000 m², contributing to a continuously growing dataset that enables long-term monitoring of Australia's diverse vegetation communities.<br></br> Project Scope <br></br> <ul><li>Coverage: More than 120 plots across multiple bioregions (ongoing expansion) </li> <li>Plot Size: Approximately 90,000 m² per monitoring site </li> <li>Temporal Scale: 2–10 year monitoring cycles </li> <li>Data Types: RGB, 10-band multispectral, and LiDAR</li></ul>

<p>This dataset comprises a comprehensive archive of soil metagenomic samples collected from TERN Ecosystem Surveillance monitoring plots across Australia. In addition to the nine subsite locations across the 1-hectare monitoring plot, soil metagenomic samples are collected from the top layer of soil. These samples can support microbial DNA analysis, including assessments of soil biodiversity, microbial function and ecological responses to environmental change. Each of the nine subsites are selected to represent the variation in micro habitats across the monitoring plot. Collected following the standardised Ecosystem Surveillance methodology, the dataset includes over 10,400 soil metagenomic samples archived in the TERN Australia Soil and Herbarium Collection, located at the University of Adelaide's Waite Campus. </p> <p>Soil metagenomic samples are preserved under climate-controlled conditions to maintain DNA integrity for future molecular analysis. These samples are openly available to researchers and support a broad range of ecological, agricultural, and microbiological studies. Each record includes detailed metadata such as voucher barcode, site and visit information and sampling details. Soil subsite samples are accessible and available for loan upon request through the EcoPlots Samples portal via an Expression of Interest.</p>

<p>This dataset lists land surface characteristics observed in Rangeland sites across Australia by the TERN Ecosystem Surveillance team, using standardised AusPlots methodologies.</p> <p>Land surface observations are collected at each site as part of the AusPlots method. At each site, observations on ground cover, lithology, erosion (state, extent, and human accelerated), surface drainage, microrelief, aspect and angle are recorded as part of the Ausplots Ground cover and Plot description methods.</p>

<p>This dataset comprises a comprehensive archive of soil pit samples collected from TERN Ecosystem Surveillance monitoring plots across Australia. Soil is characterised from a 1-meter soil pit located near the southwest corner of each 1-hectare monitoring plot. A soil sample is collected down the soil profile from each recognised horizon, and are collected as part of the soil characterisation process including detailed morphological and profile descriptions. Collected following the standardised Ecosystem Surveillance methodology, the dataset includes over 5,800 soil pit samples archived in the TERN Australia Soil and Herbarium Collection, located at the University of Adelaide's Waite Campus.</p> <p>Each record includes detailed metadata such as voucher barcode for soil collected from each horizon at the soil pit, site and visit information and sampling details. Soil pit samples are accessible and available for loan upon request through the EcoPlots Samples portal via an Expression of Interest.</p>