This event, being held during the Caucasus Mountain Forum (CMF 2023), is one of a series of engagements that GEO Mountains is undertaking during 2023 under the Adaptation at Altitude Programme.
The primary aim of the workshop is to provide a platform to bring together data providers and data users from a range of disciplines working across the Caucasus. To complement other ongoing work, the workshop will focus on interdisciplinary in situ data coverage and availability, as well as associated capacity sharing, and possible data exploitation activities. In particular, participants will develop a common overview of existing in situ monitoring efforts, and proceed to discuss how this could be expanded and/or better standardised (e.g. closing key gaps), as well as how the corresponding data could be shared and applied for key outstanding scientific and/or policy questions (for potential follow-up activities).
The concept of “Mountain Observatories” will also be introduced, and its potential applicability to the region discussed. Students and Early Career Researchers will be especially welcome to attend and contribute.
The workshop also seeks to provide an opportunity for the research community and GEO Mountains to engage more closely with national and other hydrometeorological monitoring agency representatives from across the region (especially those making measurements in mountain terrain), with a view to enhancing cooperation and data exchange.
The event will take place at Akaki Tsereteli Kutaisi State University, Kutaisi, Georgia, with an additional option to join remotely via Zoom.
Programme (all times are in local time; GMT+4)
Session 1:
11:15 – 11:20: Welcome & Introduction to the MRI – Dr. Carolina Adler (MRI)
11:20 – 11:35: Introduction to GEO Mountains & Recent Activities – Dr. James Thornton (MRI)
11:35 – 11:50: Operational hydrometeorological activities in Georgia’s mountains – Dr. Irakli Megrelidze (Deputy Head of Hydrometeorological Department, National Environmental Agency, Georgia)
11:50 – 12:05: Introduction to the concept of “Mountain Observatories” – Prof. Maria Shahgedanova (University of Reading) [online]
12:05 – 13:00: Discussion A:
Based on the existing infrastructure and data (see the Caucasus GeoNode, GEO Mountains’ Inventories and the Mountains Uncovered Series), how could the vision of a regional network of Mountain Observatories be (further) implemented in the region?
Where could these potential supersites cluster / be located? How can capacities be shared amongst different institutions / organisations conducting mountain monitoring in the region?
Session 2:
How can we enhance data exchange and use between the research community, NHMs, and other stakeholders in the region?
How can we build stronger links between educational institutions and the monitoring community?
How can we expedite the transition from data to information in support of climate change adaptation policy?
Outlook and prospects from GEO Mountains to support the region and seek regional participation in inter-regional efforts
The event will be in English. The registration deadline for physical attendees is 15 June 2023. Please note that in person participants should be registered for the Caucasus Mountain Forum (CMF 2023).
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Supported by:
Cover image by Marek Piwnicki
