Community earth system model data management: Policies and challenges

The data management plan of the Community Earth System Model (CESM)[1] from the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) is given historical context and its policies, definitions, and features are detailed. The drivers of CESM data management are discussed, including the upcoming Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP5), the ongoing Earth System Grid (ESG) project, and the strategies to address these drivers are mentioned. Future plans and strategies to address CESM data management needs and requirements are noted. The significant challenges resulting from the use of CESM output in the areas of metadata, preservation, curation, provenance, and other aspects of data management are considered.