13
Science and Management
Investments Needed to Enhance
the Use of Ecological Modeling in
Decision Making
Lev Ginzburg and H. Resit Akçakaya
249
13.1 Introduction
Despite substantial advances in ecological modeling during the past two
decades, models are rarely used in environmental decision making. In this
paper, we explore the reasons for this lack of model use and discuss different types of scientific and management investment that might enhance
the use of models in environmental decision making.
We believe one of the most important factors preventing widespread use
of models in decision making is a lack of training. Many managers lack the
experience to decide on appropriate kinds of models and the scales of
resolution that are best to solve a given problem (Breininger et al. 2002).
Related to this issue, we discuss the need for improved communication
between managers and modelers.
Another important factor is the lack of appropriate and relevant data.
We believe this deficiency is often an extension of lack of training, because
managers who lack training in modeling do not know what types of data to
collect to optimize the use of models.
As we will discuss below, a large number and variety of ecological models
have been developed during the past decade. The lack of appropriate
models is not an important factor, because many generic and specific
models that already exist can be applied to practical problems and decision
making.
13.2 Enhancing the Use of Models in Decision Making
Investments are needed in four areas to enhance the use of ecological
modeling in decision making: training and education; application of existing models; integration of existing models; and developing new, casespecific models.
Science and Management
Investments Needed to Enhance
the Use of Ecological Modeling in
Decision Making
Lev Ginzburg and H. Resit Akçakaya
249
13.1 Introduction
Despite substantial advances in ecological modeling during the past two
decades, models are rarely used in environmental decision making. In this
paper, we explore the reasons for this lack of model use and discuss different types of scientific and management investment that might enhance
the use of models in environmental decision making.
We believe one of the most important factors preventing widespread use
of models in decision making is a lack of training. Many managers lack the
experience to decide on appropriate kinds of models and the scales of
resolution that are best to solve a given problem (Breininger et al. 2002).
Related to this issue, we discuss the need for improved communication
between managers and modelers.
Another important factor is the lack of appropriate and relevant data.
We believe this deficiency is often an extension of lack of training, because
managers who lack training in modeling do not know what types of data to
collect to optimize the use of models.
As we will discuss below, a large number and variety of ecological models
have been developed during the past decade. The lack of appropriate
models is not an important factor, because many generic and specific
models that already exist can be applied to practical problems and decision
making.
13.2 Enhancing the Use of Models in Decision Making
Investments are needed in four areas to enhance the use of ecological
modeling in decision making: training and education; application of existing models; integration of existing models; and developing new, casespecific models.