Natural Resource Models in the Rangelands, A Review Undertaken for the National Land and Water Resources Audit

Product Information

Rangelands are highly complex agro-ecological systems subject to considerable rainfall variability. This spatial and temporal heterogeneity, when combined with a complex socioeconomic environment, means that it is almost impossible to use empirical studies to gain a comprehensive understanding of how rangelands respond to factors such as climate, fire, grazing, invasive species, and management because field or case studies are constrained to specific locations and short time frames (usually 5-10 years or less), and are very costly.

Simulation modelling tools provide an alternative where the complex dynamics of rangeland systems is captured in computer code, the model is validated, and then used to predict how
the system responds to climatic, edaphic, biotic, economic or management factors. Models can be used in conjunction with land managers to explore a range of scenarios or options that help to inform understanding of system complexities and assist with decision-making.