Ecosystem Modeling

Ecosystem components are driven by complex variables whose importance changes as time progresses and geographic extents shrink and grow.

Identification of these variables adds one piece to the puzzle of how ecosystems work, but quantifying the relationships between them can shed light on both the dynamics of the present and the shape(s) of the future.

More Computing Power = Richer Modeling

Advances in hardware and software have enabled researchers to create proxies of ecosystem functions and enrich them with large datasets.  Each running of a model with new data and/or variables can add pieces to the puzzle -- or reveal more that are missing.

Ecosystem Modeling Committee

The NPRB Ecosystem Modeling Committee has established standards for guiding the ecosystem modeling process for projects funded by NPRB. Specifically, the EMC is charged with developing standards for achieving “interoperability” of models, such as:

• defining scales of resolution
• creating communication protocols for data serving and exchange
• identifying key variables and relationships
• developing experimental designs

The EMC has established the design criteria for the models used in Integrated Ecosystem Research Programs, and will continue to be a part of IERP development over the next several years.

Supporting research to enable effective management and sustainable use of Alaska's marine resources
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