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Planning and Decision Support
All concerned parties are placing greater emphasis on providing sound science and better tools for developing and analyzing alternative plans. A significant area of assistance to the HCP process comes in the form of expertise in synthesis and interpretation of existing information. Many HCP planning efforts benefit from the support that is provided through examination and evaluation of existing data and guidance on how to use this information to set plan objectives and evaluate alternative scenarios. |
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| Another key area of support comes in the form of evaluation tools that enhance the ability of biologists and planners to develop and examine alternative plans. Current technology such as geographic informations systems (GIS), remote sensing, and simulation modeling have enabled greater insight into conservation requirements and opportunities, especially from the broader geographic view that the large HCP efforts require. Efforts at WERC are ongoing to develop a computer-based framework for incorporating biological data, socio-economic data, and optimization modeling to support the assessment and visualization of conservation plan alternatives. The result will be an accessible, practical computer tool for HCP planning teams, using off-the-shelf software combined with customized modules tailored for the HCP process. Examples of current research that are contributing to our knowledge about certain species at risk include: |
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