Never Fear: You Already Model!

Abstract

Simulation modeling is a valuable decision-support tool for environmental management, but the complexities of model building have historically required the involvement of a computer programming specialist to implement the scientific input of subject matter experts. Many ecologists avoid simulation modeling because of the ongoing perception that it demands excessive project resources and time, plus a very good fit with a computer programmer who typically has no knowledge of the scientific discipline. This chapter illustrates that model building is a natural part of everyday human experience, almost from birth. The implication of that fact is that the arrival of simple, intuitive simulation modeling platforms makes it possible for ecologists (and others) to develop their own sophisticated science-based models without relying on a dedicated computer programmer to write the code. Furthermore, the availability of well-supported, open-source software such as NetLogo (http://ccl.northwestern.edu/netlogo/) makes it unnecessary for the novice modeler to expend research project resources on costly proprietary software packages.