The monitoring of key parameters in the water cycle within extreme ecological environments is currently highly dependent on imported equipment. In many instances, critical parameters either lack in-situ monitoring devices altogether or have no large-scale monitoring solutions available. Furthermore, the existing technology in this field is often limited by low levels of informatization and intelligence, which hampers the effectiveness and efficiency of monitoring efforts. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need for independent research and development of advanced monitoring equipment and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies. These innovations would not only fill gaps in both domestic and international monitoring capabilities but also provide a pathway to replace imported systems with domestically produced alternatives, strengthening technological self-reliance. This paper introduces the project titled "Development and demonstration of key parameter monitoring equipment and IoT monitoring system for water cycle in extreme ecological environments" (2023YFF1303500), which was approved in 2023 under the national key research and development program's key project, "Protection and restoration of typical fragile ecosystems." The paper discusses various aspects of the project, including its background, primary research objectives, implementation strategies, performance evaluation criteria, and notable innovations. The project addresses the urgent national demand for enhanced ecological monitoring, particularly in extreme environments. Its core focus is on overcoming significant technical barriers to achieve high-precision, automated, and stable monitoring of key water cycle parameters in these challenging environments. The project's ultimate aim is to develop six sets of advanced monitoring equipment for key water cycle parameters, alongside an IoT-based monitoring system tailored for use in extreme ecological settings such as cold and arid regions. Field tests and demonstration applications will be carried out to validate the developed equipment, ensuring that it can function effectively and reliably in real-world conditions. Moreover, this project is closely aligned with the major scientific and technological goals of constructing the national "Three eco-zones and four shelterbelts" ecological security barrier. By fostering independent innovation and facilitating the upgrade of key monitoring technologies, the project aims to significantly enhance the levels of informatization and intelligence at field monitoring stations operating in extreme environments. These advancements will not only improve the capacity to monitor such ecosystems but also play a crucial role in protecting and restoring China's fragile ecological systems. In summary, this project represents a significant advancement in the field of ecological monitoring. With the successful implementation of this project, the nation will be better equipped to monitor, protect, and restore critical ecological environments.