Measurement methods for 13 indicators of ecosystem services applicable in winter wheat fields in Wallonia (Belgium)

This document lists and scores measurement methods for collecting data about 13 indicators of ecosystem services (ES) in arable fields of Wallonia (Belgium), during a cropping season with winter wheat or spelt. The measurement methods were identified from literature and interviews of Walloon scientists and farmers. This represents a context-specific list combining farmer’s ways of routinely assessing ES in their fields with methods used in local research institutions or applied in closeby ES assessments.Whenever possible, the list focuses on relatively "simple" methods, i.e., protocols not requiring costly laboratory equipment or specialized expertise, or obtainable through laboratory analyzes routinely ordered by farmers in Wallonia.

The measurement methods were scored according to three categories of criteria (scoring system in the sheet "Scoring table", results in the sheet "Measurement methods"):

Representativeness of the experimental plot, in terms of data validity across temporal and spatial scales. The experminental plot considered is a one-hectare square plot with silty soil in the center of an arable field  from Wallonia (Belgium), during a winter wheat cultivation season ;

Scientific rigor, including the maturity and standardization of the protocol, the availability of reference values, and the type of result obtained (nominal, ordinal, or quantitative) ;

Logistical feasibility, including the time needed in field and laboratory, material requirements, and costs.