Dorinne Terrestrial Observatory
The Terrestrial observatory of Dorinne, has been operational since spring 2010 and is the core of a project funded by the DGARNE (Direction Générale Opérationnelle de l’Agriculture, des Ressources naturelles et de L’Environnement – Walloon Region). The global aim is to make the carbon budget of a farm using the Belgium Blue cattle breed.
CO2 fluxes (eddy covariance) and micrometeorological measurements are performed continuously at the site. This device is completed by a micrometeorological station that measures notably air and soil temperature, air and soil humidity, radiation, air pressure and precipitations. Regular biomass samples are made to estimate dry matter, carbon content and consummation by the cattle. The carbon export due to harvest or import due to fertilization is measured allowing a full carbon budget.
Rotational grazing is applied at the site. The cattle load is monitored and the cattle rotation is optimized to avoid excessive growth or cuts.
First results are discussed here.
