Linking Modelling and Visualisation for Natural Resources Management

Natural resources management typically requires prediction of environmental changes over large areas or long time periods. In the case of forest management, for example, decisions can affect timber production, water catchment properties, recreational values, aesthetic values, energy usage, or employment opportunities. Complex decisions can be assisted by effective presentation of the outcome of systems modelling. In this paper we describe the development of advanced visualisation techniques in combination with a geographic information system and resource modelling. Application potential is illustrated through examples in forest management and visual impact assessment. The emphasis is on provision of visual feedback on the outcome of decision options. The main interactive window allows three-dimensional movement of, or over, the management area based initially on imagery draped on a digital terrain model. Also on screen are menus or sliders which may control time, position along a line, or the values of data or modelling parameters including sliders for decision variables. As the time or the decision variables are altered by the user, the result is presented through replacement of textures in the three-dimensional view to represent the changes in land cover or other outcome. Initially the visualisation is based on prior modelling in a well-defined decision space. The system reads model output in ARC/INFO export format whereas interactive visualisation is based on the Silicon Graphics Performer toolkit.