An "observation" is the description of an event experienced by an Observer. The event is location- and time-specific. The observation is made using tools available in the LEO Network. It can be developed into an observation report that includes features like written text and photos. The Observer starts the story with his/her observation and can be joined in the writing process by other co-authors who are local or topic experts. An Editor, usually located at a LEO Hub, is often involved as a facilitator in the process.

LEO Network includes observations of events that are unique or unusual. An example might be the first local sighting of an invasive species or unusual weather event. LEO Network is also perfect for observations that provide ongoing measures of the condition of the environment: for example, keeping track of population numbers of an invasive species at a specified time and sampling area in order to understand the extent or scale of change. Within LEO, such observations are usually included as part of a specific project, as a measure to track the status of or a change in a specific condition.

All observations must meet the publication criteria to be shared on the Network. An observation can be made from anywhere and recorded using the LEO Reporter App or the LEO Network website. Examples of observations include unusual changes in weather, seasons, the land, seas and wildlife, in addition to the occurrence of natural disasters and pollution.