Abstract: Field scientific observation and investigation is a fundamental scientific and technological work, and also a breakthrough point for independent innovation. In recent years, a field observation center has been established in the Changjiang (Yangtze) River Scientific Research Institute (CRSRI). A network system covering the Yangtze River Basin has been formed by setting up field scientific observation and research stations involving ecology, environment, resources, and disaster prevention. This paper presents a review on the continuous field scientific observations and multi-disciplinary comprehensive scientific investigations in the Yangtze River Basin by CRSRI. The achievements attained by CRSRI are also expounded in terms of basic conditions, observation results, scientific and technological support, backbone teams, and social influence. In future, CRSRI will focus on infrastructure construction, long-term observation and investigation, scientific research and demonstration, cooperation and exchange, and talent team construction, in order to provide support for the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Basin.

Key words: Yangtze River Basin, field scientific observation, scientific investigation, development history, prospects