16
New Directions in Ecological
Modeling for Resource Management
Virginia H. Dale
310
16.1 New Directions
New directions for the use of ecological models in resource management
depend on current trends in the use of computers, environmental pressures,
communication, understanding of ecological and environmental processes,
globalization, and stakeholder involvement in environmental concerns. At
the same time as these trends are becoming apparent, some agreement is
being reached on the most pressing needs for resource management. These
resource management needs point out the advantages of using models
in addressing resource management concerns because models arise from
a philosophy of a parsimonious approach, clear assumptions, and, when
possible, generic modeling paradigms. However, models would likely be
used more often if there were closer communication between modelers and
decision makers, clearer definition of the environmental problems, recognition of the value in using models to enhance understanding, and more use
of models for exploring alternative future conditions. These are the issues
that will define the new directions in the use of models for resource
management.
16.1.1 Trends
An examination of future directions in the use of ecological models for
resource management requires a look at current trends. First, the use of
computers is increasing in public, private, and business sectors. In developed
countries, computers are available in most businesses and agency offices
as well as a large number of homes. Around the world, computers
are generally accessible or can be brought into remote locations. They are
used to communicate; collect, access, and store information; and conduct
analyses. This trend means that computers are generally available on which
models can be operated.
Furthermore, global communication modes are becoming faster and
more reliable. The general availability of computers is one reason why
New Directions in Ecological
Modeling for Resource Management
Virginia H. Dale
310
16.1 New Directions
New directions for the use of ecological models in resource management
depend on current trends in the use of computers, environmental pressures,
communication, understanding of ecological and environmental processes,
globalization, and stakeholder involvement in environmental concerns. At
the same time as these trends are becoming apparent, some agreement is
being reached on the most pressing needs for resource management. These
resource management needs point out the advantages of using models
in addressing resource management concerns because models arise from
a philosophy of a parsimonious approach, clear assumptions, and, when
possible, generic modeling paradigms. However, models would likely be
used more often if there were closer communication between modelers and
decision makers, clearer definition of the environmental problems, recognition of the value in using models to enhance understanding, and more use
of models for exploring alternative future conditions. These are the issues
that will define the new directions in the use of models for resource
management.
16.1.1 Trends
An examination of future directions in the use of ecological models for
resource management requires a look at current trends. First, the use of
computers is increasing in public, private, and business sectors. In developed
countries, computers are available in most businesses and agency offices
as well as a large number of homes. Around the world, computers
are generally accessible or can be brought into remote locations. They are
used to communicate; collect, access, and store information; and conduct
analyses. This trend means that computers are generally available on which
models can be operated.
Furthermore, global communication modes are becoming faster and
more reliable. The general availability of computers is one reason why