Minimum Data Reporting Requirements for Field-Scale, Replicated Strip Trials.

Pooling results from field-scale, replicated strip trials performed across different environments by different farmer networks will greatly increase the value of the overall dataset. Currently, there are many impediments to pooling data across farmer networks that need to be overcome before the data can be fully utilized. Data stewardship guidelines need to be developed that provide sufficient security and anonymity for those sharing their data. The guidelines should describe the confidentiality of and access to pooled data, and be acceptable to farmers and scientists involved in farmer networks. Such guidelines require time for development as well as for discussion and adoption by network participants. Another impediment to full utilization of farmer network data is the lack of standard data reporting requirements. It is a customary practice for farmer networks to collect substantial amounts of metadata to assist with interpretation of trial results, but variation in the type of metadata collected among farmer networks makes it difficult to pool results. Incomplete documentation of measurement units or methods creates additional challenges. We propose a list of minimum data reporting requirements for field-scale, replicated strip trials. The purpose of the list is to promote discussion and adoption of a standard set of minimum data reporting requirements.