nternational observing platforms, such as the Arctic Observing Network (AON) and the Southern Ocean Observing System (SOOS), have become a primary method for detecting the long-term effects of climate change on complex ecosystems. Based on the success of this model for research coordination, a workshop was held in Portland, Oregon, in July 2012, with support from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Office of Polar Programs Antarctic Integrated Systems Science program, to develop criteria for the implementation of a McMurdo Dry Valleys Terrestrial Observation Network (TON).