Distance coaching: Implement a distance coaching of the Regional ET Network

Abstract

ICARDA and FAO-RNE in partnership together initiated a project to establish a Regional Network (NENA-ETNet) for Evapotranspiration ETa measurements of field (crops and orchards) for Near East and North Africa (NENA) Region. The sites are located in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco and Tunisia. Key purpose of the network to fill the data gaps in ground based ETa measurements that can be used to validate the several RS-based ET estimates. Because of the water scarcity of the region, there is an urgent need to establish and operationalize a collaborative regional network for ET measurements. Because of the complexity in the physics of ET and methodological issues in ET measurements, therefore, establishing a virtual platform on distance coaching for regional network members in parallel to the field measurements is to facilitate the follow up with partners through virtual platforms. Such a remote platform helps to ask queries and questions could raise during the actual operation of the instruments and while conducting measurements. This distance coaching will be set as continuous process. The specialists and principal investigators will be engaged to manage and maintain the active participation of the virtual platform. They will not only interact with the members of the network, providing advises and recommendations, but also record any question, observation and occurrence so that a final catalogue of cases will be documented. This will be extremely useful in cumulating lessons learned.