resource manager to view the maps along with pertinent information
related to the ecological framework. This combination of resource-based
data and simple map interface will allow all levels of users to use the
information.
The information flow in this example begins with many large data sets
acquired from a variety of sources. Each of the data sets was determined
to be spatially explicit enough to be included in the model. Raw field
data were processed at least once to derive the data layers used in the
model, although most of the data sets were acquired in a processed form.
The models were developed with input from resource managers and the
general public to get significant approval in the final product. As a result,
the final SEF product will be packaged to facilitate its use by all interested
parties.
In many natural-resource-planning projects, the real work is done
at a local level. One of the important aspects of the SEF is that it was
developed at a scale (30 to 90 m) that could be used by local planners
and resource managers. Several significant pilot projects using the data
are under way and promise to provide excellent feedback for the final
product.
9.7 Conclusions
To have optimum choices for environmental decision making, managers
need information that is relevant and timely. Ecological/environmental
models are well suited for developing the information needed to make good
decisions affecting the environment. The essence of models is that they
distill the important processes and variables into a simple form that can
be used to understand the system being modeled and to provide insight
about choices that might affect that system. The flow of data and information from real-world situations to resource managers requires that all of the
people involved in the process communicate information in a timely and
relevant manner. It may not be necessary for each person in the hierarchy
of information flow and decision making to have a complete knowledge of
all the processes, but it is imperative that they understand the overall flow
of information and the caveats surrounding each step in the information
hierarchy.
Resource management decisions will be made even in the absence of
data, models, or relevant information. To achieve the maximum effectiveness, decisions should be made with enough information to understand the
possible ramifications of those decisions. The best decision-making process
will have a clear definition of the problem and issues, pertinent and adequate data, well-documented data flow, simple models with links to the environmental decisions, clear communication between modelers and resource
managers, and stakeholder involvement in the process.
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John R. Richardson and Cory W. Berish
related to the ecological framework. This combination of resource-based
data and simple map interface will allow all levels of users to use the
information.
The information flow in this example begins with many large data sets
acquired from a variety of sources. Each of the data sets was determined
to be spatially explicit enough to be included in the model. Raw field
data were processed at least once to derive the data layers used in the
model, although most of the data sets were acquired in a processed form.
The models were developed with input from resource managers and the
general public to get significant approval in the final product. As a result,
the final SEF product will be packaged to facilitate its use by all interested
parties.
In many natural-resource-planning projects, the real work is done
at a local level. One of the important aspects of the SEF is that it was
developed at a scale (30 to 90 m) that could be used by local planners
and resource managers. Several significant pilot projects using the data
are under way and promise to provide excellent feedback for the final
product.
9.7 Conclusions
To have optimum choices for environmental decision making, managers
need information that is relevant and timely. Ecological/environmental
models are well suited for developing the information needed to make good
decisions affecting the environment. The essence of models is that they
distill the important processes and variables into a simple form that can
be used to understand the system being modeled and to provide insight
about choices that might affect that system. The flow of data and information from real-world situations to resource managers requires that all of the
people involved in the process communicate information in a timely and
relevant manner. It may not be necessary for each person in the hierarchy
of information flow and decision making to have a complete knowledge of
all the processes, but it is imperative that they understand the overall flow
of information and the caveats surrounding each step in the information
hierarchy.
Resource management decisions will be made even in the absence of
data, models, or relevant information. To achieve the maximum effectiveness, decisions should be made with enough information to understand the
possible ramifications of those decisions. The best decision-making process
will have a clear definition of the problem and issues, pertinent and adequate data, well-documented data flow, simple models with links to the environmental decisions, clear communication between modelers and resource
managers, and stakeholder involvement in the process.
178
John R. Richardson and Cory W. Berish